Kia Forte

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Current Model

The budget-friendly, compact Forte has some positives, including simple controls and impressive fuel economy. However, it suffers from a too-stiff ride and a noisy cabin.

The standard 147-hp four-cylinder pulls adequately, and the continuously variable transmission provides unobtrusive progress, but the engine gets raucous when pushed. At 34 mpg overall, fuel economy is excellent. Handling is responsive, and the Forte tackles corners willingly. But it feels like the suspension transmits every bump to the passengers. The interior is drab and spartan, and the seats in the midlevel LXS are uncomfortable. The infotainment system is simple and easy to use. A sportier GT model with a turbo engine is also available. BSW and RCTW are optional.

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Predicted Reliability

Predicted Owner Satisfaction

See all 2024 Kia Forte Ratings & Reliability

2019-2023

2019 Redesign Year

The Kia Forte brings simple controls and impressive fuel economy, it suffers from an overly stiff ride; passengers feel every bump. And, the car is very loud to boot.

The engine pulls adequately and the continuously variable transmission provides unobtrusive progress, but the engine is raucous. At 34 mpg overall, fuel economy is excellent. Handling is responsive, thanks to the Forte's willingness to tackle corners. The drab interior is Spartan but it's nice to have automatic climate control. The seats are rather uncomfortable in the midtrim LXS. The infotainment system is simple and easy to use and is compatible with Apple CarPlay. It is commendable that forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist are standard. A sportier GT model, offering a turbocharged engine, is new for 2020. A freshening for 2022 brings updated styling, a new infotainment system, and standard forward collision detection with pedestrian detection.

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$18,325 - $22,225

Average Retail Price

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$16,480 - $20,625

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$17,100 - $21,000

Average Retail Price

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$15,100 - $19,345

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$15,600 - $18,900

Average Retail Price

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$12,885 - $17,035

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$14,025 - $16,850

Average Retail Price

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$11,300 - $14,485

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$12,200 - $14,675

Average Retail Price

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$9,215 - $11,870

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

2014-2018

2014 Redesign Year

Considerably more refined than previous Kia compact sedans, this iteration of the Forte feels mature and solid, thanks to a quiet cabin and one of the most comfortable rides in its class. The spacious and nicely finished interior also wins praise, while braking performance is excellent too.

Overall, the Forte is now one of the top-rated cars in the category. The best value is an LX model with the Popular package, which adds upgraded interior trim, 16-inch alloy wheels, remote keyless entry, and cruise control. Fuel economy improvements were instituted for 2015 models, while changes for 2016 included an optional rearview camera for the LX trim line, along with standard keyless entry and heated mirrors.

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GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$9,100 - $13,325

Average Retail Price

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$6,210 - $10,400

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$9,000 - $11,150

Average Retail Price

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$6,085 - $8,185

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

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$7,525 - $10,000

Average Retail Price

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$4,660 - $7,035

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

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$6,450 - $8,325

Average Retail Price

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$3,575 - $5,395

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

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$5,775 - $7,650

Average Retail Price

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$2,925 - $4,740

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

2010-2013

2010 Redesign Year

The compact Forte replaced the mediocre Spectra for 2010. It's quicker, with a 156-hp 2.0-liter engine delivering 28 mpg, and it feels sportier than many small cars.

The Forte also offers a host of impressive features such as Bluetooth and standard electronic stability control. Its IIHS crash-test performance was good too. The car was available as a coupe or a hatchback, and offered an optional 2.4-liter. While a big improvement, it still ranks below the class leaders. Downsides include a stiff ride, noisy engine and a mediocre driving position.

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GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$5,250 - $6,700

Average Retail Price

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$2,420 - $3,830

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$4,625 - $5,950

Average Retail Price

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$1,865 - $3,105

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$4,075 - $5,575

Average Retail Price

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$1,435 - $2,750

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

GREEN CHOICE

GREEN CHOICE

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$3,175 - $4,700

Average Retail Price

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$880 - $1,945

Trade-in Price

RELIABILITY VERDICT

OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER REPORTED MPG

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