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Retail Price$19,990 MSRP / Window Sticker Price Smart Buy Program is powered by Additional or Replacing Features:
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Show More Build & Price LXS 4dr SedanExterior ColorsInterior ColorsStandard OptionsAdditional OptionsUpdating Configuration... Reviewed by Warren ClarkeWarren Clarke OverviewMany buyers prioritize value when considering compact cars and the Kia Forte delivers. It's one of the most affordable picks in its class, and despite its low base price, it comes with a generous selection of standard equipment and a stellar warranty. The Forte's large trunk gives it more cargo space than competing sedans such as the Volkswagen Jetta. And its top trim comes with a spirited turbocharged engine that makes daily travels more enjoyable. Unlike the Toyota Corolla, the Forte doesn't offer a hatchback or hybrid variant. And compact cars like the Jetta, Honda Civic, and Mazda 3 surpass the Forte in base-engine horsepower. Still, this capable Kia is an excellent choice if you're looking for a well-equipped, well-rounded compact car that won't break the bank. Pros Big trunk. Many standard features at a relatively low price. Outstanding warranty coverage. Cons Competing models provide more horsepower from their base engines. Not available as a hatchback. No hybrid variant. Verdict The Kia Forte offers fewer body styles and less base-engine horsepower than key rivals. But overall, it's an excellent pick for its value and utility. What's New for 2023Kia renames the Forte's base trim for the 2023 model year. The FE is now called the LX. Trims and PricingThe 2023 Kia Forte is available in four trim levels: LX, LXS, GT-Line, and GT. The GT-Line is the popular model, but we recommend the GT. We'll explain why. LXThe entry-level LX starts at a low $20,585 (including a $1,095 destination fee), yet still offers a solid list of standard equipment. Like all trims except the top GT, the LX is powered by a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard. The Forte LX comes with automatic headlights, full power accessories, 15-inch steel wheels, daytime running lights, cloth upholstery, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth, an 8-inch infotainment screen, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The list of options includes an auto-dimming rearview mirror, floor mats, and a garage door opener. LXSThe LXS ($21,085) comes with larger 16-inch alloy wheels and 60/40-split rear seats with a trunk pass-through. Blind-spot warning is an optional upgrade. GT-LineThe GT-Line ($22,785) adds blind-spot warning, cloth seats with synthetic-leather inserts, 17-inch wheels, fog lights, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, keyless ignition, remote engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, satellite radio, and navigation. The options list includes a sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. GTThe GT ($25,285) gets a more powerful 201-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged engine mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. It also gets a sport suspension, which improves ride and handling over the standard models. Additionally, this trim has 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, and adaptive cruise control. The GT is our preferred model as it's more fun to drive than the other trims yet remains affordably priced. Options include a six-speed manual transmission, a sunroof, parking sensors, and a premium stereo system. Engine and PerformanceTwo engines are available for the Kia Forte. All trims except the GT come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 147 horsepower. Rivals such as the Volkswagen Jetta and Mazda 3 have the edge in base-engine horsepower. The Forte sends power to the front wheels through a CVT automatic. It works well in most situations, but it's not impressive. Compared to other vehicles in this class, this Kia's acceleration is about average. The engine is a little buzzy at higher rpm but otherwise smooth and responsive. For better performance, the optional 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder is the way to go. It comes standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission and offers a six-speed manual gearbox as an option. This engine makes the Forte feel downright quick, and the suspension upgrades that come along with it improve the ride and handling. With this powertrain, the Forte is far more engaging. Fuel EconomyThe 2023 Kia Forte with the base 2.0-liter and CVT gets a strong Environmental Protection Agency rating of up to 28 mpg for city driving and 39 mpg on the highway. The GT gets extra power and still manages a 27/35 mpg city/highway rating with the automatic transmission. Those numbers are competitive with gas-only choices in this class, but there are hybrid rivals that provide much better fuel economy. For example, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra returns up to 53/56 mpg city/highway with its hybrid powertrain. InteriorQuality materials and a practical layout make the Kia Forte's cabin instantly comfortable. Controls are easy to find and feel solid to the touch. There are signs of cost-cutting here and there, but for the most part, the cabin has a quality look and feel. The front passenger space is generous, providing seats that are supportive and easily adjustable. Like most cars in this class, the rear seats are on the tight side, especially with three passengers aboard. The trunk measures 15 cubic feet, which bests the cargo space in competing sedans like the Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Jetta. However, keep in mind that some compact hatchbacks have more cargo space than sedans like the Forte. LXS and higher trims come with rear seatbacks that fold down to accommodate long items. Infotainment and ConnectivityThe Kia Forte comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment interface that provides Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. You can jump from Google Maps to text messaging, to Amazon Music, to a phone call quickly and efficiently. GT-Line and GT trims come with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, which is one of the largest screens in the segment. With this setup, the Forte's infotainment system is one of the best available at this price point. SafetyThe 2023 Kia Forte received an overall four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but just a three-star rating for the front passenger-side test. While it hasn't yet rated the 2023 model, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS gave the identical 2022 Forte its top Good ratings in all crashworthiness categories. All Kia Fortes include forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Kia Forte vs. the CompetitionIn GT form, the 2023 Kia Forte is definitely one of the sportier compact sedans. It's meant for someone who would be bored by a Toyota Corolla. The Forte has more cargo space than competing sedans like the Hyundai Elantra, and it has one of the best warranties in its segment. This Kia delivers excellent fuel economy by gas-only standards. However, there are hybrids in this class that are a lot more frugal at the pump; unfortunately, the Forte isn't available as a hybrid. Overall, the Kia Forte has lots of standard features yet costs less than some rivals, so it's a superb pick for shoppers seeking value. Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra Kia Forte vs. Toyota Corolla TrueCar Expert Review MethodologyTrueCar works with a select group of automotive industry experts who test-drive nearly 300 vehicles per year. TrueCar's experts grade the vehicles on key attributes including driving dynamics, comfort, interior design, technology, storage, and efficiency. Our experts also judge recent model updates, pricing and value, trims, options, comparable vehicles, and safety assessments (as provided by the NHTSA and IIHS) to inform their recommendations and help car shoppers choose a vehicle that is right for them. TrueCar also ranks the best vehicles in each category based on a data-driven methodology. Each vehicle is carefully scored using our in-house rating system, which systematically evaluates every car, SUV, truck, and van. Utilizing ALG industry research, consumer surveys, a team of data scientists and vehicle experts, TrueCar provides a unique and useful outlook to help you find the best vehicle for your driving needs. Will there be a 2023 Kia Forte?The 2023 Kia Fote Forte LX compact sedan starts at $19,490, plus a $1,095 destination charge. The LXS, at $19,990, is $500 extra. As a GT-Line model, the Forte begins at $21,690. Getting into the Forte GT costs $24,190, for a model equipped with the dual-clutch automatic transmission.
How much is a brand new 2022 Kia Forte?The 2022 Kia Forte has a starting MSRP of $19,090 for the base FE model. The mid-range LXS starts at $19,590, and the sporty GT Line begins at $21,290. The turbocharged GT model starts at $23,490 for the DCT-equipped model, while the manual model costs an extra $1,000.
Is Kia Forte worth buying?The 2021 Kia Forte is an excellent pick for car shoppers looking to save money. Prices start at less than $18,000, which is more than reasonable for a commuter car. Buyers also benefit from Kia's superior warranty. A 100,000-mile powertrain enables owners to ride with greater confidence.
Is Kia Forte a good car 2022?But all in all, the 2022 Kia Forte will not disappoint. The car remains affordable, returns as-advertised fuel economy, has engaging dynamics, looks great, is available with features found on larger, more expensive models, and now has more ADAS equipment to improve driving comfort and confidence.
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