Kia Forte Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision
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Although SUVs and trucks have become more popular than sedans and compact cars, many options are still available if you prefer the traditional benefits of smaller cars. These benefits include better fuel efficiency, easier maneuverability, and sometimes more affordable pricing. In this diversified market, the Kia Forte stands out as a particularly appealing option.
The long-running Kia Forte has been in production since 2008 and continues to be a key model in Kia’s stable of vehicles. One of the main reasons why the Kia Forte remains popular is its incredible value proposition. It’s the South Korean carmaker’s budget small sedan, but it doesn’t outright feel like a penalty box.
If you’re in the market for a truly affordable compact car, the Forte is worth adding to your shortlist – but first, you’ll have to know its advantages and disadvantages. Today, we rounded up the Kia Forte pros and cons to help you with your car buying needs.
What We Love: Kia Forte Pros
There’s a lot to love about the Kia Forte, including:
Plenty of Standard Features
Despite its affordable price tag, the Forte provides ample standard features. For instance, the 2024 model comes with advanced safety features such as forward collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist, which are usually found in more expensive cars. Moreover, it features an easy-to-use infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity and entertainment while driving.
Fuel Efficient
Thanks to its impressive fuel economy, the Kia Forte is an excellent vehicle for buyers who want to save at the pump. As per EPA.gov, the most efficient model, the 2024 Kia Forte FE with an automatic transmission, achieves an EPA-estimated 34 MPG combined (30 MPG city, 41 MPG highway). Other models vary slightly, with the standard automatic Forte achieving 32 MPG combined (28 city, 39 highway), the turbocharged automatic version at 30 MPG combined (27 city, 35 highway), and the manual turbocharged variant achieving 26 MPG combined (22 city, 31 highway).
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Sharp, Sporty Styling
If you’re eyeing the newer models of the Kia Forte, especially the 2022 and 2024 editions, you’ll be impressed by their sharp, sporty styling. The 2022 Forte, for instance, brings a refreshed look with its updated front and rear bumpers, enhanced headlights, and a sleek new trunk lid spoiler. The GT and GT-Line models stand out with their striking triple-stack LED fog lights, perfectly melded into the lower air intake grille and sportier LED tail lights for a more athletic vibe.
Well-Built Interior
Kia has done an excellent job with the interior design of the Forte. The cabin’s mix of textures is tasteful and contributes to a well-constructed and mature ambiance. Plus, the controls are intuitively laid out, making them easy to locate and use. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with physical buttons for key functions. The Forte offers a comfortable and adjustable driving position, with a steering wheel that provides ample adjustability. The front seating area is spacious, offering adequate knee and shoulder room, and even taller drivers will find the headroom sufficient.
Excellent Warranty
Kia’s warranty, often cited as one of the best in the auto industry, includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty, and a 5-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. Additionally, Kia offers a 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan. This comprehensive coverage provides Kia Forte owners significant protection and peace of mind.
Low MSRP
Customers flock to the Forte due to its lower MSRP. For instance, the 2024 Forte has a starting MSRP of $19,990, significantly lower than the Honda Civic’s $23,950 and the Toyota Corolla’s $22,050. As such, the lower MSRP of the Forte doesn’t mean it skimped on features – in fact, it did the exact opposite by giving more features and tech for your dollar.
What We Don’t Love: Kia Forte Cons
On the flip side of this Kia Forte pros and cons, here are the potential disadvantages of this small sedan:
Dull Base Engine
Sadly, the sporty styling of the Forte doesn’t quite translate to its performance, especially with the base engine. For instance, the 2024 Kia Forte’s base engine, a 2.0-liter I-4, is known for its efficiency and reliability, but it may not meet the expectations of drivers looking for more robust performance. While adequate for daily commuting and city driving, this engine may not provide the power or acceleration desired by those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
For those seeking more zest in their driving experience, the 2024 Kia Forte GT model is a great option. It steps up from the base engine with a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, which equals more spirited driving.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE KIA FORTE
Now in its third generation, the Forte is a readily available choice on the used car scene. With this in mind, we’ll explore the most reliable Kia Forte years.
Stiff Ride
If on-road comfort is your thing, you might think twice about the Forte. One common criticism of the Kia Forte, especially concerning ride comfort, is its somewhat stiff suspension system. Although this suspension can effectively manage minor road irregularities, it struggles to absorb larger bumps and rougher terrain. The rear suspension, in particular, appears to have difficulty with more uneven surfaces, resulting in a less comfortable driving experience.
Unrefined CVT Transmission
Some Kia Forte owners have expressed dissatisfaction with their vehicle’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Although it generally functions well, the Kia Forte CVT sometimes lacks finesse. While it is quick to respond with power when necessary, it tends to decrease engine revs too quickly when the throttle is slightly eased. This can lead to an inconsistent power delivery that may feel like surging. For drivers who prefer a transmission that responds seamlessly and predictably, this behavior of the CVT can be a concern.
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Kia Forte Pros and Cons: Is This Compact Sedan for You?
That wraps up our highlight of the Kia Forte pros and cons. As such, the Kia Forte presents an attractive package with its affordability, commendable fuel efficiency, and robust warranty. However, be aware that its base engine might offer less power than some drivers seek, and the ride comfort leaves much to be desired. If your priorities lean towards a wallet-friendly car with basic yet reliable performance, the Forte could very well meet your needs.
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