2022 Kia Forte

2022 Kia Forte Highlights

For 2022, the Kia Forte has refreshed styling reminiscent of the more upscale and powerful Stinger, but the changes for the new model year are not simply skin deep. The 2022 Kia Forte interior has also been updated, and there are many more driver assistance tech and standard convenience features than in previous models.

Key Details

• Compact sedan body style
• Two-row seating for up to five passengers
• Refreshed exterior design with updated front and rear styling
• Two engine options: 2.0-liter four-cylinder and turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder
• Available seven-speed dual-clutch transmission on GT trim
• Standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
• New available 10.25-inch infotainment system on upper trims
• Expanded suite of advanced driver assistance features

Benefits

• Attractive styling updates
• The impressive array of standard and available technology features
• Sporty GT trim offers engaging performance for enthusiasts
• Excellent fuel economy
• Spacious interior for a compact sedan

Learn More: Kia Forte Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

2022 Kia Forte Overview

Performance

The 2022 Kia Forte offers two engine options:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine:

• 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque
• Standard on FE, LXS, and GT-Line trims
• Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT)

Turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine:

• 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
• Exclusive to the Forte GT trim
• Available with either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a six-speed manual transmission

The base 2.0-liter engine prioritizes efficiency over fun, and the CVT (continuously variable transmission) follows the same path.

The 2022 Kia Forte GT's turbocharged engine delivers a significant power boost for more spirited performance. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission offers quick shifts and improved efficiency, while the six-speed manual caters to driving enthusiasts who prefer a hands-on experience.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2022 Forte an overall safety rating of four out of five.

Standard safety features across all trims include:

• Forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
• Lane keep assist
• Lane-following assist
• Driver attention warning
• High beam assist

An expanded suite of available advanced driver assistance features includes:

• Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist
• Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist
• Safe exit warning
• Navigation-based adaptive cruise control (with stop & go)
• Highway driving assist

Driving

Buyers looking for an affordable compact car with solid reliability, above-its-class tech, and excellent fuel economy will gravitate toward the Forte. Choosing the 2022 Kia Forte GT Line, LXS, or base FE means the powertrain will be the 2.0-liter four-cylinder with CVT, and while this combo won’t win any drag races, it’s more than adequate for everyday driving. Plus, the Forte’s small size and compact dimensions make it perfect for tight, urban streets.

For a more dynamic driving experience, the Forte GT stands out with its 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four. The additional power is noticeable, providing quicker acceleration. The GT's sport-tuned suspension offers improved handling without significantly compromising ride comfort, balancing sportiness and daily usability.

The Forte's drive modes (Normal, Sport, and Smart) allow drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance characteristics to their preferences and driving conditions.

Ride quality is generally composed across the Forte lineup. The suspension effectively absorbs most road imperfections, though larger bumps can be felt more prominently in the GT trim due to its sportier tuning.

Interior

The new 2022 Kia Forte interior feels roomier than its small outward size would imply. The cabin layout remains driver-centric, with a clean, modern design that isn’t often associated with an affordable price point.

Notable interior features include:

• Cloth or SynTex (leatherette) seating surfaces, depending on trim
• Available 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Available heated and ventilated front seats
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel on GT-Line and GT trims
• Dual-zone automatic climate control (GT-Line and GT)

Front seats offer good support and comfort for short commutes and longer journeys. Rear seat space is generous for a compact sedan, with adequate legroom and headroom for adult passengers. The trunk provides 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which is among the best in its class, and the standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats add versatility for larger items.

The 2022 Kia Forte LXS and FE have solid material quality. Higher trims, like the GT-Line and GT, feature additional premium touches, including contrast stitching and sporty accents.

Technology

The 2022 Kia Forte comes well-equipped with modern technology features, centering around an updated infotainment system.

Key technology features include:

• Standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation (new for 2022)
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility (standard)
• Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
• Available wireless phone charger
• USB ports for front and rear passengers
• Available UVO link connected car services
• 4.2-inch LCD driver information display (larger 4.2-inch color display on GT)

The new 10.25-inch infotainment system, available on higher trims, offers crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. The larger screen allows for a split-screen view, enabling users to view navigation and audio information simultaneously.

Fuel Economy

The 2022 Kia Forte offers competitive fuel economy ratings, particularly with its base engine. According to the EPA, the Forte’s ratings are as follows:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine:

• FE trim (mpg): 31 city / 41 highway / 35 combined
• LXS and GT-Line trims (mpg): 29 city / 39 highway / 33 combined

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (GT trim):

• With seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (mpg): 27 city / 35 highway / 30 combined
• With six-speed manual transmission (mpg): 22 city / 31 highway / 26 combined

2022 Kia Forte Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2022 Kia Forte an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5. Owners provide similar scores for the Forte’s quality, value, reliability, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Up to 41 mpg highway
• Attractive exterior design with sporty touches, especially in GT and GT-Line trims
• Improved tech for 2022
• Comfortable interior with surprising room for a compact
• Engaging performance from the GT model

Problems

• The base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers
• The ride can be firm, especially in the GT trim
• Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims
• Manual transmission limited to GT trim
• Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds

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CoPilot's Take

Among competitors, the Forte is a standout. Even going for the lowest trim, a 2022 Kia Forte FE comes with a surprisingly comprehensive list of new tech, generous interior room, and stellar fuel economy from the base 2.0-liter four and CVT combo. Should buyers want a Forte with more serious performance, the GT brings turbo grunt, an optional row-it-yourself manual transmission, and improved suspension tuning.

The new 10.25-inch infotainment system is another compelling feature, bringing the Forte's tech offerings in line with more expensive competitors. Safety is another strong point for the 2022 Forte, with a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver assistance features. Adding more advanced systems like navigation-based Smart Cruise Control and Highway Driving Assist is impressive for this vehicle class.

However, Forte has some downsides. The base engine, while efficient, will often feel underpowered. The ride quality in the GT trim might be too firm for those prioritizing comfort over sportiness. Additionally, while the Forte offers many advanced features, some are restricted to higher trims, which may disappoint budget-conscious buyers looking for specific technologies.

2022 Kia Forte FAQs

Is the 2022 Kia Forte a good car?

Yes, the 2022 Kia Forte is generally considered a good car in the compact sedan segment. It offers a compelling blend of features, including an attractive design, good fuel economy, a spacious interior, and a generous array of technology and safety features. The GT trim provides engaging performance for those seeking a sportier driving experience.

How long will a 2022 Kia Forte last?

A 2022 Kia Forte can last 200,000 miles or more with proper care. Driving habits, maintenance history, and environmental conditions impact longevity, so results may vary among different examples.

What is the most common problem with the 2022 Kia Forte?

As a relatively new model, it's too early to definitively identify the most common problem with the 2022 Kia Forte. However, based on feedback from early owners and reviews, some potential areas of concern include:

• Firm ride quality, especially in the GT trim, may be uncomfortable for some drivers.
• Road noise at highway speeds, which some find more noticeable than in competitor vehicles.
• The base engine's power output, which some drivers find inadequate for confident highway merging or passing.
• Occasional complaints about the responsiveness of the CVT in non-GT models.

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