Customers seeking an affordable sedan are faced with a dwindling list of choices, but the 2023 Kia Forte stands out as the model starts at $19,490.
Costing $400 more than last year’s model, the 2023 Forte is largely unchanged as the sedan received a facelift last fall. That being said, there are a handful of updates as the entry-level FE trim has been renamed the LX and the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is now SULEV30 compliant.
Furthermore, the previously available GT Technology Package has been dropped. However, the Forte GT with the dual-clutch transmission now comes equipped with features from the package including Highway Driving Assist, Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection. The added equipment helps to explain why the GT’s price has climbed from $23,490 to $24,190 for a more substantial increase of $700.
Also Read: 2023 Kia Sportage PHEV Delivers 34 Miles Of Electric-Only Range For $38,490
Since everything else carries over, buyers will find an entry-level 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS) and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a continuously variable transmission that enables the Forte to return up to 30 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined.
Upgrading to the Forte GT rewards buyers with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine pumping out 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque. Besides being more powerful, the GT comes equipped with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Given the Forte’s carryover nature, we won’t do a full equipment rundown. However, we’ll note the entry-level LX is relatively basic as it has halogen headlights and 15-inch steel wheels. Buyers will also find cruise control, air conditioning, a four-speaker audio system, and an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Despite being relatively bare bones, the Forte LX boasts an impressive amount of driver assistance systems including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detection, Forward Collision Warning, and High-Beam Assist. Other highlights include a Lane Departure Warning system, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Rear Occupant Detection Alert.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Forte GT features LED lighting units and 18-inch alloy wheels. Buyers will also find a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and SynTex/cloth seats with available heating and ventilation up front.
Other highlights include alloy pedals, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, and a 10.25-inch infotainment system with GPS navigation. They’re joined by a wireless smartphone charger and a six-speaker audio system.
