Kia Forte: Specs, Features, Used Prices & Review
Price (Starting From):~ $19,990
The Kia Forte is a compact sedan built for buyers who want affordable transportation, strong fuel economy, a practical cabin, and more standard features than many older budget sedans. It was one of Kia’s most important small cars in North America, sitting below larger sedans like the Kia K5 while competing directly with the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, and Mazda3.
The Forte is now a used-car-focused model in the U.S. market. Kia’s newer K4 has taken its place, which makes the Forte more interesting for car buyers who want a lower purchase price instead of the newest design. The final U.S. model year offered efficient 2.0L trims, a sportier turbocharged GT, and a rare manual-transmission GT option. Kia listed the 2024 Forte lineup with LX, LXS, GT-Line, GT DCT, and GT Manual trims before the model left the lineup.
8.2 / 10 — WheelPedia Rating
Every vehicle we review is scored on a 1–10 scale based on how well it delivers on performance, comfort, efficiency, value, and real-world usability. These ratings help show where it stands in its segment.
Key Highlights
- Final U.S. Model Year: 2024
- Body Type: Compact sedan
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Standard Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder MPI engine
- Standard Horsepower: 147 hp
- Performance Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder GDI engine
- Maximum Horsepower: 201 hp
- Transmission Options: IVT, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, or 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- Best EPA Fuel Economy: Up to 30 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined on the LX/FE-style efficiency setup
- Cargo Capacity: 15.3 cubic feet
- Best For: Budget-focused commuters, students, first-time buyers, small families, and used sedan shoppers
Specifications
| Spec | Details |
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Forte |
| Vehicle Type | Compact sedan |
| Segment | Compact car |
| Final U.S. Model Year | 2024 |
| Replacement | Kia K4 |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Standard Engine | 2.0L inline-4 MPI Atkinson engine |
| Performance Engine | 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 GDI engine |
| Horsepower | 147 hp or 201 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft or 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | IVT, 7-speed DCT, or 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded gasoline |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.0 gallons |
| Passenger Volume | 96.0 cu. ft. without sunroof |
| Cargo Capacity | 15.3 cu. ft. |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in. |
| Length | 182.7 in. |
| Width | 70.9 in. |
| Height | 56.5 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 5.3 in. |
| Main Rivals | Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Mazda3 |
Kia’s official 2024 Forte specification sheet lists the 2.0L engine at 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.6L turbocharged GT engine makes 201 hp and 195 lb-ft. It also lists the Forte at 182.7 inches long with a 106.3-inch wheelbase and 15.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
Expert Tip
For most used Kia Forte shoppers, the LXS and GT-Line trims make the most sense. The LXS keeps the purchase price low while still offering the Forte’s core strengths: efficiency, simple controls, useful cabin space, and low running costs. The GT-Line is the better pick if you want a nicer cabin feel, better styling, larger screen, more available driver-assist features, and stronger resale appeal.
About the Kia Forte
The Kia Forte was Kia’s compact sedan aimed at buyers who wanted practical transportation at a lower price than many rivals. It served as a budget-friendly alternative to the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra, and Hyundai Elantra.
The Forte’s biggest strength was value. In its final 2024 model year, Kia listed the LX at $19,990, the LXS at $20,490, the GT-Line at $22,490, the GT DCT at $24,690, and the GT Manual at $25,390 before destination and other fees. Kia also listed a $1,155 destination charge.
That pricing made the Forte one of the more affordable new compact sedans when it was still on sale. Now that it is discontinued, it has become a used-market option for buyers who want a late-model sedan with modern features without stepping into the higher price of newer compact cars.
Prices & Trims
The Kia Forte is now mainly a used-car purchase in markets where it has been replaced. Used prices vary by model year, mileage, condition, trim, region, accident history, and whether the vehicle is sold privately, by a dealer, or as certified pre-owned.
| Trim | Original 2024 MSRP | Typical Used-Market Position | Key Features |
| LX | $19,990 | Lowest-cost late-model Forte option | 2.0L engine, IVT, basic wheels, core safety features |
| LXS | $20,490 | Best budget pick | 2.0L engine, IVT, 16-inch alloy wheels, available Technology Package |
| GT-Line | $22,490 | Best balance for most buyers | Sportier styling, 17-inch wheels, larger infotainment screen, more available comfort and safety features |
| GT DCT | $24,690 | Best automatic performance pick | 1.6L turbo engine, 7-speed DCT, 18-inch wheels, sport-tuned rear suspension |
| GT Manual | $25,390 | Enthusiast pick | 1.6L turbo engine, 6-speed manual, sportier driving feel, limited buyer pool |
The LXS is the smart pick if your goal is affordable commuting. It has the efficient 2.0L engine and usually costs less than the GT-Line while still feeling more complete than the base LX.
The GT-Line is the best overall used Forte trim for many buyers. It does not get the turbo engine, but it adds the style, technology, and convenience features most shoppers want without the higher running costs of the GT.
The GT DCT is the best version for drivers who want more power. Its 201-hp turbocharged engine gives the Forte a much stronger personality, and the multi-link rear suspension helps it feel more planted than standard trims.
The GT Manual is the most enthusiast-focused Forte. It is less common and may appeal to buyers who want a small sedan with a manual gearbox. The downside is that good examples may be harder to find, and prior-owner driving habits matter more.
Engine, Performance & Fuel Economy
2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine
Most Kia Forte trims use a 2.0L 4-cylinder MPI Atkinson-cycle engine paired with Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission. Kia rated this engine at 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is designed for economy, not speed. It works well for city driving, commuting, school runs, and highway cruising, but it can feel modest when merging quickly, climbing hills, or carrying several passengers.
| Item | 2.0L Forte |
| Engine | 2.0L inline-4 MPI |
| Horsepower | 147 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | IVT |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded gasoline |
| Best Use | Commuting, fuel economy, low running costs |
The IVT helps the Forte return strong fuel economy, especially in the LX/FE-style efficiency setup. It is not as engaging as a traditional automatic, but it suits buyers who care more about mpg than sporty response.
1.6L Turbocharged GT Engine
The Forte GT uses a 1.6L turbocharged GDI engine rated at 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Kia paired it with either a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, depending on the version.
This engine changes the character of the car. The Forte GT feels quicker, more responsive, and more confident at highway speeds. It also gives the Forte stronger passing power than the 2.0L model.
| Item | Forte GT |
| Engine | 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 GDI |
| Horsepower | 201 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 7-speed DCT or 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded gasoline |
| Best Use | Sportier daily driving |
The GT is not a full performance car, but it is one of the more entertaining versions of the Forte. The multi-link rear suspension on GT models also helps it feel better controlled than the torsion-beam rear setup used on standard trims. Kia’s feature sheet lists the standard Forte trims with a coupled torsion beam rear axle and the GT models with a sport-tuned multi-link rear suspension.
Driving Experience
The standard Kia Forte is easy to drive, light on fuel, and simple to park. Steering effort is light, visibility is good, and the sedan’s compact size makes it comfortable in city traffic. It does not feel expensive, but it does feel practical.
The 2.0L engine is best for relaxed driving. Around town, it has enough power for normal use. On the highway, it cruises well once up to speed, but quick passing requires planning. The IVT can make the engine sound busy under hard acceleration, which is common in many economy-focused compact sedans.
Ride comfort is generally good for the class, especially on smaller wheels. The LX and LXS trims are the most comfort-focused because they use smaller wheels and tires. The GT-Line looks sportier but still keeps the standard engine, so it is more of a style-and-feature upgrade than a true performance model.
The Forte GT is the version that feels meaningfully different. Its turbocharged engine gives stronger low-end pull, and the upgraded rear suspension gives the car a more settled feel in corners. The GT is still a front-wheel-drive compact sedan, but it is more fun than the standard Forte and more useful for drivers who want a bit of energy in daily driving.
The manual GT is the driver’s choice. It gives the Forte more involvement and makes the car feel less like basic transportation. However, it is best for buyers who specifically want a manual transmission and are comfortable checking clutch wear before purchase.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is one of the Kia Forte’s strongest selling points. EPA data lists several 2024 Forte configurations, with the most efficient 2.0L automatic version reaching up to 30 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined. The standard 2.0L automatic configuration is listed at 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 32 mpg combined.
| Version | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| 2.0L automatic efficiency version | 30 | 41 | 34 |
| 2.0L automatic | 28 | 39 | 32 |
| 1.6L turbo DCT | 27 | 35 | 30 |
| 1.6L turbo manual | 22 | 31 | 26 |
The 2.0L Forte is the better choice if fuel cost matters most. It returns strong highway mileage and keeps ownership costs low.
The turbocharged GT is less efficient, especially with the manual transmission, but it gives buyers more power and a better driving experience. For most shoppers, the decision comes down to priorities: the 2.0L is the sensible choice, while the GT is the fun choice.
0–60 MPH Acceleration
Tested under real-world driving conditions.
| Version Tested | Estimated 0–60 MPH | Notes |
| Forte 2.0L IVT | Around 8.5–9.0 seconds | Adequate for commuting, not quick |
| Forte GT DCT | Around 6.5–7.0 seconds | Much stronger acceleration |
| Forte GT Manual | Around 6.7–7.2 seconds | More engaging, depends on driver skill |
The standard Forte is not built for speed. It is quick enough for normal use but does not feel athletic when pushed.
The Forte GT is the version to buy if acceleration matters. Its 201-hp turbo engine gives the car enough power to feel confident on highways and more enjoyable on back roads.
Interior, Comfort & Technology
The Kia Forte’s interior is one of the reasons it works well as a used compact sedan. It has a clean dashboard, simple controls, and enough space for daily use. It does not feel as premium as a Mazda3, but it gives buyers a practical layout with good visibility and useful storage.
Front-seat space is generous for a compact sedan. Kia lists 42.2 inches of front legroom, 38.8 inches of front headroom, and 56.1 inches of front shoulder room. Rear passengers get 35.7 inches of legroom and 37.5 inches of headroom.
| Interior Measurement | Kia Forte |
| Front Headroom | 38.8 in. |
| Rear Headroom | 37.5 in. |
| Front Legroom | 42.2 in. |
| Rear Legroom | 35.7 in. |
| Passenger Volume | 96.0 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Capacity | 15.3 cu. ft. |
The trunk is useful for the class. At 15.3 cubic feet, the Forte offers more cargo room than some compact sedans and enough space for groceries, luggage, backpacks, and daily gear. The 60/40 split-folding rear seat is available on trims above the base LX, which makes the LXS and higher trims more practical.
Technology depends heavily on trim. Lower trims include an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims use a 10.25-inch navigation display with Kia Connect. Available features include wireless charging, rear USB charging, Harman Kardon premium audio, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sunroof depending on trim and package.
| Feature | Availability |
| 8-inch touchscreen | Standard on LX and LXS |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard on lower display setup |
| 10.25-inch navigation display | Standard on GT-Line and GT |
| Harman Kardon audio | Available or standard depending on package/trim |
| Wireless charging | Available on GT-Line, standard/available on GT |
| Heated front seats | Available on GT-Line/GT, standard on GT Manual |
| Ventilated front seats | Available on GT-Line/GT DCT |
| Power sunroof | Available on GT-Line/GT DCT, standard on GT Manual |
The GT-Line is the best interior value because it can add many of the features buyers expect in a modern compact sedan without requiring the turbocharged GT engine.
Safety Features & Ratings
The Kia Forte includes a strong list of standard and available safety features for a compact sedan. Kia’s 2024 feature sheet lists standard forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, lane following assist, rear occupant alert, high-beam assist, stability control, ABS, multiple airbags, and LATCH child-seat anchors. Higher trims add or offer blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, safe exit warning, smart cruise control, navigation-based smart cruise control, and highway driving assist.
| Safety Feature | Availability |
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard |
| Lane Keeping Assist | Standard |
| Driver Attention Warning | Standard |
| Lane Following Assist | Standard |
| Rear Occupant Alert | Standard |
| High-Beam Assist | Standard |
| Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist | Optional or standard depending on trim |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist | Optional or standard depending on trim |
| Smart Cruise Control | Standard on GT-Line and GT DCT |
| Highway Driving Assist | Standard on GT-Line and GT DCT |
IIHS data for the 2024 Forte shows the passenger-side small overlap frontal rating applies to 2019–2024 models, while the updated moderate overlap front test applies to 2022–2024 models. The updated moderate overlap front test result was rated Poor overall, mainly because of rear-passenger injury and restraint measurements, even though several driver injury areas were rated Good.
For official crash-test ratings and safety evaluations, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Strong value as a used sedan
- Excellent fuel economy from the 2.0L engine
- Useful cabin and trunk space
- GT model adds real performance appeal
- Good technology availability
What We Don’t Like
- Standard engine is modest
- Base trims feel basic
- GT fuel economy drops noticeably
- Rear-seat space is good, not class-leading
- Discontinued status matters
Should You Buy the Kia Forte?
You should buy the Kia Forte if you want an affordable used compact sedan with strong fuel economy, good trunk space, simple controls, and modern features. It is especially strong as an LXS or GT-Line because those trims give the best mix of price and equipment.
You should also consider the Forte GT if you want more power. The GT gives the Forte a sharper personality and makes it more enjoyable to drive. It is the right choice for buyers who want something more fun than a Corolla or Sentra but still want sedan practicality.
You should skip the Forte if you want the newest Kia compact sedan design, maximum rear-seat room, or a more premium cabin. In that case, the Kia K4, Honda Civic, Mazda3, or Hyundai Elantra may be better options.
For most used buyers, the best Kia Forte trim is the GT-Line. It offers the right look, better technology, more features, and stronger appeal than the base trims without the fuel-cost and maintenance tradeoffs of the GT.
FAQs
Is the Kia Forte discontinued?
Yes. The Kia Forte is no longer Kia’s current compact sedan in the U.S. market. Kia introduced the K4 as the Forte replacement, and the K4 moved Kia’s compact sedan lineup into a newer design and technology package.
What replaced the Kia Forte?
The Kia K4 replaced the Kia Forte. The K4 is a newer compact car with updated styling, more modern cabin technology, and available 2.0L and 1.6L turbo powertrains.
Is the Kia Forte a good used car?
Yes, the Kia Forte can be a good used car if it has a clean history, proper maintenance records, and passes a pre-purchase inspection. It is best for buyers who want low running costs, good fuel economy, and a practical compact sedan.
Which Kia Forte trim is best?
The GT-Line is the best trim for most used buyers. It adds better styling, technology, and available comfort features without the higher running costs of the turbocharged GT.
Is the Kia Forte fuel efficient?
Yes. EPA data lists the most efficient 2024 Forte 2.0L automatic version at up to 30 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined. The turbocharged GT is quicker but less efficient.
Does the Kia Forte have a turbo engine?
Yes, the Forte GT uses a 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Kia rated it at 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.
Does the Kia Forte come with a manual transmission?
Yes, the Forte GT Manual was available with a 6-speed manual transmission in the final U.S. lineup. It is less common than automatic versions but more appealing for driving enthusiasts.
Is the Kia Forte bigger than a Toyota Corolla?
The Forte and Corolla are both compact sedans. The Forte offers practical passenger space and a large 15.3-cubic-foot trunk, but buyers should compare specific model years because dimensions and cabin packaging vary by generation.
Is the Kia Forte good for families?
The Forte can work for small families, especially as a second car or daily commuter. It has five seats, good trunk space, and available driver-assistance features, but larger families may prefer a compact SUV or midsize sedan.
Is the Kia Forte GT worth it?
The Forte GT is worth it if you want more power and a sportier drive. Its 201-hp turbo engine makes it much quicker than the standard 2.0L Forte, but fuel economy and tire costs are higher.
What should I check before buying a used Kia Forte?
Check accident history, service records, tire wear, brake condition, dashboard warning lights, infotainment function, air conditioning, suspension noise, and transmission behavior. For GT models, pay close attention to clutch feel or dual-clutch smoothness.
What are the Kia Forte’s main competitors?
The Kia Forte competes with the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Mazda3, and Volkswagen Jetta. Used shoppers may also compare it with the newer Kia K4.
Summary
Overall, the Kia Forte is a smart used compact sedan for budget-focused buyers who want modern features, low running costs, and good daily comfort. Choose the GT-Line for the best all-around value, the LXS for the lowest sensible ownership cost, and the GT if you want the Forte with real performance appeal.