Powertrain
Transmission: The Kia Forte operates on Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which is slightly different from traditional automatic. CVT does not have gears that shift between low- and high-speed operations. This type of transmission offers a smoother driving experience compared to a traditional automatic. In addition, they receive better fuel mileage.
Handling
Steering: The Electric Power Steering (EPS) is equipped with a motor to assist with steering the vehicle. The EPS is regulated by the power steering control unit which senses the steering wheel torque and vehicle speed to work with the motor.
Driving modes: There are 3 different drive mode functions capable in the Kia Forte. These modes and functions include:
- Normal – Provides soft and comfortable driving.
- Eco – Improves fuel efficiency.
- Sport – Provides sporty and firm riding.
Exterior
The 2023 Kia Forte will have a similar black grille in the front, no matter which trim level you choose. The headlights are halogen projecting lights providing outstanding visibility driving through the dark hours. The GT line will offer many additional upgraded features throughout the entire exterior build, giving it a far more premium look and feel. With 7 different exterior color options, there is a dream car option for anyone.
Trim information
There are 5 different trim options for the Kia Forte. The LX, LXS, and GT-Line trims come with a 147-horsepower four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission. The GT gains a 201-horsepower turbo-four and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, while the GT Manual comes with the same turbo-four and six-speed manual. All options are front-wheel drive.
Interior
The Kia Forte LX and LXS trims feature an 8-inch touch screen, while the GT-Line, GT and GT with manual feature a 10.25-inch touch screen. All trims are equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a USB post, Bluetooth, and a 4- or 6-speaker audio system. The GT trims are built with sporty trim-specific interior upgrades.
Comfort
The Kia Forte offers plenty of leg space and storage room contributing towards comfortable commutes. The seats are adjustable catering to each driver and passenger's preferences. In the GT trim levels, the seats are heated proving that much more comfort. The Forte features one of the larger trunks in the compact car sector, with 15.3 cubic feet of space. This allows plenty of luggage to get packed into the trunk, offering significant space throughout the front and back seats of the vehicle.
Technology
Aside from the interior technology mentioned above, there are additional features including push-button start, keyless entry, dual climate control, universal garage door opener, navigation, HD radio, satellite radio, and additional USB ports. Some of these features are specific to the GT trims or upgradeable features.
Year Make Model: 2023 Kia Forte
Vehicle Type: Compact Sedan
Engine:
For all trim levels:
- 2.0 MPI I-4 – CVT: 147 hp/132 lb.-ft. of torque
- 1.6T GDI I-4 – 6-Speed Manual or 7-Speed DCT: 201 hp/195 lb.-ft. of torque
Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive (FWD)
MPG:
- LX trim - 30 City / 41 Highway / 34 Combined FWD
- LXS trim - 28 City / 39 Highway / 32 Combined FWD
- GT-Line - 28 City / 39 Highway / 32 Combined FWD
- GT - 27 City / 35 Highway / 30 Combined FWD
- GT w/MT - 22 City / 31 Highway / 26 Combined FWD
Safety Technology
The 2023 Kia Forte comes equipped with many safety features, ranking this vehicle four out of five stars. Standard driver-assistance features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, driver-attention monitor, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. The upgrade safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, cyclist detection, highway driving assist, vehicle exit warning, navigation-based stop-and-go adaptive cruise control in addition to rear parking sensors. This is a well-equipped, safe mode of transportation.
Summary
All-in-all, the 2023 Kia Forte is an outstanding compact sedan that receives great highway fuel efficiency. It impresses with a spacious, high-quality interior build that is packed with easy-to-use technology and safety features. This vehicle has a lot going for it, especially as it currently sits in fourth place for sales in the compact car sector. If you are on the hunt for a smaller commuter car, check out the Kia Rio or Kia Rio 5-Door. Both these models also get outstanding gas mileage but are slightly shorter in length for more convenient city parking.