- One of the last cheap small cars
- Base model is good on gas
- Zippy, fun Forte GT
- Slow and cheap in basic spec
- Transmissions lack refinement
- Dubious safety scores
2024 Kia Forte – Overview
The 2024 Kia Forte may look like a sporty compact sedan, but its true strength lies not in performance, but in affordability. The base model comes equipped with a modest 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. While it’s perfectly capable for everyday driving and urban commutes, those seeking a more engaging experience should look at the GT trim. The Forte GT enhances the car’s already sleek design and adds a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with either a dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. This setup brings a noticeable boost in power, although the GT still falls short of the precise handling seen in sportier rivals like the Volkswagen Jetta GLI and Honda Civic Si.
What truly sets the Forte apart is its exceptional value. Across four attractively priced trim levels, it comes generously equipped with a wide array of standard features. This compelling package is further sweetened by Kia’s outstanding powertrain warranty—one that surpasses those offered by luxury brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
When Is The 2024 Kia Forte Coming Out?
Kia has scheduled the 2024 Forte to arrive at dealerships in the U.S. by late summer 2023, with availability rolling out gradually through the fall. If you’re interested in a budget-friendly sedan that’s packed with updated tech and safety gear, now is a great time to start considering the Forte.
What’s New for 2024 Kia Forte?
The 2024 Kia Forte carries over unchanged from the previous model year. The lineup remains intact, with the performance-oriented GT trim still on offer for drivers seeking a sportier edge. Meanwhile, the base LX trim continues to attract budget-conscious buyers with its impressively low starting price.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2024 Kia Forte starts at $21,145 and tops out at $25,845, depending on trim level and optional features.
| Trim | Starting MSRP (est.) |
|---|---|
| LX |
$21,145
|
| LXS |
$21,645
|
| GT-Line |
$23,645
|
| GT |
$25,845
|
For the best combination of performance and features, we recommend the GT trim. Unlike the base model, which uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the GT replaces it with either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or an available six-speed manual transmission. We’d go for the manual gearbox—it adds a more engaging driving experience, even though it costs $700 more than the DCT.
The Forte GT doesn’t just bring added power with its 201-hp turbocharged engine—it also includes a compelling list of standard features: 18-inch alloy wheels, sport seats, ambient interior lighting, and a wireless smartphone charging pad, making it a well-rounded choice for enthusiasts and value-seekers alike.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2024 Kia Forte comes with two available engines: a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and a more potent 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 201 horsepower. In our testing, the base 2.0-liter engine felt underwhelming, with its lackluster acceleration further hampered by the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It took the Forte 8.2 seconds to reach 60 mph—significantly slower than rivals like the Mazda 3, which completed the same run in 7.0 seconds.
Opting for the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine in the GT trim dramatically improves performance. Paired with either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual, this engine livens up the drive considerably. In our tests, a manual-equipped Forte GT sprinted to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, putting it in the same conversation as sportier compact cars like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Honda Civic Si, though it still trails them slightly.
Despite its athletic styling, the Forte’s driving dynamics fall short of the excitement promised by its looks. Even in the GT trim, the handling feels more composed than thrilling. In a recent comparison against the Civic Si and Jetta GLI, the Forte struggled to keep pace, requiring more effort from the driver to match the agility and engagement of its sportier competitors.
0–60-MPH Times
In performance testing, the 2024 Kia Forte equipped with the standard 2.0-liter engine and CVT proved to be on the slower side, reaching 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. The transmission’s unenthusiastic response didn’t do the powertrain any favors. For those seeking quicker acceleration, the Forte GT with its 201-hp turbocharged engine is the better choice—it shaved the 0–60 mph time down to a more respectable 6.7 seconds in our test.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The 2024 Kia Forte is impressively fuel-efficient, particularly in models with the standard 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission. These versions earn EPA ratings of 30 mpg in the city, 41 mpg on the highway, and 34 mpg combined—making them excellent choices for commuters and budget-conscious drivers.
Opting for the more powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter engine in the GT model with a manual transmission comes with a trade-off in efficiency. The EPA estimates a combined fuel economy of 26 mpg. However, in our real-world testing of a 2020 Forte GT with a manual gearbox, we observed 27 mpg combined and an impressive 37 mpg during our 200-mile highway test—slightly outperforming the EPA’s highway rating.
For the most up-to-date and detailed fuel economy information, visit the EPA’s website..
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2024 Kia Forte interior stands out with its clean, minimalist design and quality materials that give the cabin a refined feel. The rear seat offers ample space, comfortably accommodating two adults—making longer journeys more enjoyable for passengers. While the base model provides all the essential features, higher trims elevate the experience with extras like optional dual-zone automatic climate control and heated and ventilated front seats.
When it comes to cargo capacity, the Forte is surprisingly practical. With all seats in place, it can hold seven carry-on bags—one more than its main competitors, the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic—giving it a slight edge for everyday usability and road trips.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2024 Kia Forte offers impressive tech features for its price point. Every model comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Bluetooth, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Stepping up to the GT-Line and GT trims rewards buyers with a larger 10.3-inch display, which adds built-in navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio.
Additionally, all Forte models feature a 4.2-inch color display nestled between the gauges, providing essential driving information at a glance. For added convenience, a wireless smartphone charging pad is available as an option, keeping devices powered without cluttering the cabin with cords.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2024 Kia Forte comes equipped with a solid suite of standard and available driver-assistance technologies. One notable option is adaptive cruise control that leverages navigation data to anticipate upcoming curves, automatically reducing speed to handle turns smoothly and safely.
Key safety features include:
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Standard forward-collision warning paired with automated emergency braking
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Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
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Available adaptive cruise control with lane-following assist
For detailed crash-test ratings and additional safety information, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia stands out in the compact car segment thanks to its exceptional warranty coverage. While most manufacturers offer powertrain warranties lasting around 5 years or 60,000 miles, the Forte—and its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Elantra—both provide an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Here’s a quick summary of Kia’s warranty for the Forte:
-
Limited warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
-
Powertrain warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles
-
Complimentary scheduled maintenance: Not included
This robust warranty adds significant peace of mind for buyers looking for long-term value.
2024 Kia Forte Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L I4 (147 hp) / 1.6L Turbo (201 hp GT) |
| Transmission | CVT (standard) / 7-speed DCT (GT) |
| 0–60 mph | 8.5 seconds (standard) / 6.5 seconds (GT) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 31/41 mpg (standard) / 28/38 mpg (GT) |
| Cargo Space | 15.3 cubic feet |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 8-inch (standard) / 10.25-inch (optional) |
| Safety Ratings | 5 stars NHTSA, Top Safety Pick IIHS |
| Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles basic, 10 years / 100,000 miles powertrain |
Final Verdict
The 2024 Kia Forte remains a smart buy in the compact sedan market. Its competitive pricing, strong fuel economy, advanced safety features, and comfortable interior make it an appealing option for a wide range of buyers. The Forte GT spices things up with peppy turbo power and sporty handling for those who want a little more excitement without breaking the bank.
2024 Kia Forte VIDEOS
