What Is the 2023 Kia Forte?
The 2023 Kia Forte is offered in four trims (LX, LXS, GT-Line and GT) and is pitted against other small sedans like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla. The standard powertrain consists of a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission. It’s a good choice for fuel economy, but straight-line speed is not its (ahem) forte. A zippier 201-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder powers the GT trim, which can be had with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or six-speed manual. If you plan on toting little ones around on a regular basis, be sure to check out how the Forte fared in our Car Seat Check.
What’s New on the 2023 Kia Forte?
After receiving a design refresh and infotainment upgrade last year, the Kia Forte sees no notable changes for 2023.
What Features in the 2023 Kia Forte Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- Cloth seats
- 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Driver drowsiness monitor
- Lane departure warning
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure steering assist
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Available features include:
- Alloy wheels
- Power moonroof
- Dual-zone climate control
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- 60/40-split, folding backseat
- Harman Kardon premium stereo
- Wireless device charging
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability
- Rear automatic braking
Should I Buy the 2023 Kia Forte?
The 2023 Kia Forte is perfect for anyone who wants an ample supply of tech and safety features without having to load on pricey option packages or climb to more expensive trim levels. While the Forte’s base four-cylinder is frugal on gas, performance on tap is mediocre; the optional turbo four, however, gives the Forte some get up and go. There’s ample space for adults in the first and second rows, and the cabin itself is filled with quality trim pieces.
