The Kia Forte presents itself as a stylish compact sedan. Beneath its sleek exterior lies a modest 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which is paired with front-wheel drive.
While it’s adequate for navigating city streets, those seeking more excitement behind the wheel might want to opt for the GT version.
The GT enhances the car’s sporty look and swaps the standard engine for a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder, coupled with either a dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.
Pricing and Which Model to Buy
The 2024 Kia Forte starts at $21,145 and ranges up to $25,845, depending on the trim and additional options.
- LX: $21,145
- LXS: $21,645
- GT-Line: $23,645
- GT: $25,845
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Kia Forte is available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder generating 201 horsepower. During testing, the 2.0-liter engine felt sluggish, and the CVT didn’t help its cause.
It took 8.2 seconds for the base Forte to reach 60 mph. It offers a comfortable ride but lacks the agile handling one might expect from its sporty exterior styling, even in the GT model.
When equipped with the 2.0-liter engine, the Forte takes 8.2 seconds to reach 60 mph. With the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, the Forte GT tests faster, reaching 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The standard Kia Forte with the 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission offers excellent fuel economy, boasting an EPA highway rating of 41 mpg, a city rating of 30 mpg, and a combined rating of 34 mpg. If you opt for the turbocharged GT with a manual transmission, the combined fuel economy drops to 26 mpg.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Forte’s interior stands out for its minimalist design and high-quality materials. The rear seats offer ample space for two adults, making it comfortable for longer trips.
While the base model includes the essential features, upgrading through the trims brings more convenience and luxury.
For instance, dual-zone automatic climate control and heated and ventilated front seats are available as options. The Forte also offers impressive cargo space, fitting seven carry-on bags with the seats up.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2024 Forte offers excellent technology features for the price. The base model comes with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The GT-Line and GT trims feature a larger 10.3-inch display with in-dash navigation and SiriusXM radio. All models come with a 4.2-inch color display between the gauges, and a wireless smartphone charging pad is available.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Kia offers a range of standard and optional driver-assistance features. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia’s warranty coverage stands out in the segment. While most manufacturers offer a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, the Forte’s powertrain is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles, setting it apart from many competitors.
- Limited warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
About the Author
