2022 Kia Forte

MSRP range: $19,090 - $24,490

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2022 Kia Forte GT Sedan Exterior Shown

7.9/10 Expert Rating

2022 Kia Forte GT Sedan Exterior

2022 Kia Forte GT Sedan Exterior

2022 Kia Forte GT Sedan Exterior Shown

2022 Kia Forte GT Sedan Exterior Shown

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MSRP	$20,115
What others are paying	$21,058

Low supply is pushing the market average above MSRP.

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2022 Kia Forte Review

Dan Frio

byDan Frio^{Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show).}

Pros

Loaded with features at lower price than most competitors
High fuel economy
Easy-to-use tech and infotainment system
Generous warranty

Cons

Stiff ride
Back seat lacks the room of some rivals

What's new

Restyled front and rear ends
Additional standard and optional safety features
Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto now come standard
Part of the third Forte generation introduced for 2019

The compact sedan market might be shrinking, with Chevrolet and Ford recently abandoning the class to focus on compact SUVs, but that just makes it easier to consider the segment's standouts. The 2022 Kia Forte ranks high on that list with its sharp style, impressive fuel economy and a string of standard features at a lower price than rivals.

The Forte lineup ranges from the fuel-thrifty base model to the sporty 201-horsepower GT top trim and its optional six-speed manual transmission. New for 2022 are restyled front and rear ends, with a sleeker grille and headlights, and revised taillight designs for a more aggressive look. New safety features and driver aids have been added as standard equipment, including navigation-based adaptive cruise control and a lane-centering system. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now make smartphone connections easier and cable-free for front occupants.

The Forte once got by on its low price and generous feature list, but it's no longer just a value alternative. An array of standard and optional features, solid power and improving refinement make the Forte a legitimate consideration among the standard bearers in the class, including the Honda Civic and Mazda 3. The Forte is still a bit rough around the edges in terms of ride quality and handling, and its rear seat is a bit small for the class. But as an overall value play, the Forte holds its own against the best. Read our Expert Rating below to see if the Forte is right for you.

Edmunds' Expert Rating^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}
Rated for you by America’s best test team
Our verdict	7.9 / 10
The Forte is a grown-up small sedan that's a fantastic value for the money, with above-average utility. Other highlights include a comfortable, quiet interior and an extensive list of available features. However, it lags well behind top competitors in driving dynamics, ride quality and rear legroom.
How does the Forte drive?	7.0
In routine driving, the Forte feels adequately punchy. At Edmunds' test track, our test Forte covered 0-60 mph in 8.7 seconds, which is an average time for the class. The CVT automatic generally works well but at times feels unpolished. It delivers power promptly when commanded, but it's too eager to drop revs when you ease off the throttle slightly. It can make for surging power delivery. We're also not overly impressed with the Forte's handling. The steering weight is fine but offers little feedback, and the on-center feel is vague. While the Forte corners relatively flat, it can get unsettled by midcorner bumps.
How comfortable is the Forte?	8.0
The Forte is more comfortable than most cars in the class. The seats are nicely contoured for long-distance comfort, and the headrests are soft and unobtrusive. Road noise is ably quelled, and only a mild amount of wind and ambient noise seeps through. The dual-zone automatic climate control works well. We also like that Kia offers ventilated front seats, although the cooling effect isn't especially powerful. The biggest knock against the Forte here is its stiff suspension. It's OK on rough paving or shallow imperfections, but it struggles to smooth out larger bumps. The rear suspension, in particular, is especially troubled by uneven bumps.
How’s the interior?	8.0
Kia has done an excellent job designing the Forte's interior. A mix of textures makes the well-built interior look grown-up and refined. The controls are logical and easy to find, and the infotainment is easy to navigate, with physical buttons for important features. The seating position and steering wheel both offer a wide range of adjustability. The front seat is roomy with plenty of knee and shoulder room. Taller drivers have sufficient headroom, too. Rear-seat knee room falls short compared to class leaders (and the hard plastic seatbacks don't help), but headroom is an issue only for passengers over 6 feet tall.
How’s the tech?	8.0
Overall, the Forte offers a lot of well-integrated features. The touchscreen interface is easy to use, and the upgraded audio system sounds sharp as long as you don't turn it up too loud. Our test car didn't have the optional navigation system, but standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compensate for a lot. The native voice system recognizes basic controls with little confusion, though you have to follow a structured set of commands. Every Forte comes with forward collision mitigation, and a blind-spot monitor is available on midtier trims and above. It's a little disappointing that adaptive cruise control isn't standard on any trim level. It's standard on many competitors. In testing, all systems worked well and avoided false alerts.
How’s the storage?	8.5
For a small sedan, the Forte offers excellent utility. The trunk has a wide, flat load floor and a generous opening. At 15.3 cubic feet, it's also among the biggest in the class. The cabin offers several small-item storage options to help you organize your things. These include a decently sized center console box, miscellaneous storage trays and accommodating door pockets. The anchor points for child safety seats are clearly marked, and the anchors sit close to the surface of the cushions, making them easy to access. The somewhat limited backseat room means bulky rear-facing seats might interfere with front seat movement.
How’s the fuel economy?	8.5
Fuel economy is excellent, and the EPA estimates the Forte with the base engine will get 33 mpg combined (or 35 mpg for the FE trim). We fell a bit short in our real-world driving tests but saw better returns in the Forte than in most competitors.
Is the Forte a good value?	9.0
The Forte makes an undeniably strong value statement. It has a slightly different equipment balance than competitors, but you'll pay less for lots of features. The quality of the interior design also belies the below-average price. Cost-cutting is not all that apparent until you really start looking. Kia and its corporate cousin, Hyundai, offer the best warranty in the business right now, with six years/60,000 miles of basic coverage and 10 years/100,000 miles for the powertrain. Roadside assistance, offered for five years/60,000 miles, is also good for the class, though Hyundai edges it out slightly with unlimited mileage over the same period.
Wildcard	7.0
The Forte is a small car that you can show off because it doesn't give the impression of being an economy bargain pick. The strength of this car is that it's an affordable vehicle that doesn't make you feel as if you've compromised. But it also doesn't exhibit the same fun-to-drive dynamics that make the Civic and Mazda 3 so rewarding to pilot.

Which Forte does Edmunds recommend?

It's hard to go wrong with the GT-Line model. It provides an impressive list of standard features and a new larger infotainment display, plus two option packages and sportier styling thanks to larger wheels and LED accent lights.

Kia Forte models

The 2022 Kia Forte is offered in four trim levels: FE, LXS, GT-Line and GT. The lineup ranges from the fuel-sipping FE to the sporty GT, the latter equipped with a more powerful engine and an available six-speed manual transmission.

FE
The base trim trim comes standard with:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (147 horsepower, 132 lb-ft of torque)
Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
15-inch steel wheels
Cruise control with steering wheel controls
Multiple driving modes
8-inch touchscreen display
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration
Four-speaker audio system

Every Forte also comes with these advanced driver safety features:

Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
Lane keeping assist (steers the Forte back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Driver attention warning (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)

LXS
The LXS trim adds a few more features, including:

16-inch alloy wheels
60/40-split folding rear seats
Upgraded interior trim

The optional LXS Technology package beefs up the driver aids and conveniences with:

Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Safe-exit system (can prevent driver or passenger from opening a door into traffic approaching from behind)
Heated side mirrors

GT-Line
The GT-Line sits in the middle of the lineup. It adds the LXS options, along with:

17-inch alloy wheels
LED foglights
LED running lights and taillights
Heated exterior mirrors
Dual-zone climate control
Cloth sport seats with faux leather inserts
Leather-wrapped, flat-bottom sport steering wheel
10.25-inch infotainment display
Navigation system
Six-speaker audio system
Keyless entry and push-button start

Three option packages, the GT-Line Premium, GT-Line Sport and GT-Line Technology, offer some additional functionality.

The GT-Line Premium adds:

Sunroof
LED cabin lighting
Eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Navigation-based adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the Forte and the car in front, and can also react to traffic signs and set speed based on navigation data)
Wireless charging pad
Electronic parking brake

The GT-Line Sport package offers:

10-way power-adjustable driver's seat
Full simulated-leather seats
Heated and ventilated front seats
Rear-seat USB charging port

The GT-Line Technology package offers:

Electronic parking brake with auto hold
Navigation-based smart cruise control
Pedestrian and cyclist collision avoidance

GT
This is the sport-oriented Forte. It comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or an optional six-speed manual. Otherwise, it builds on the GT-Line's features with:

18-inch wheels
Sport suspension and performance tires
Sport-tuned exhaust with dual chrome tips
LED headlights
High beam assist (automatically turns on high beams when conditions allow)
Black faux leather and cloth seats with red stitching
Wireless charging pad
Rear seat air-conditioning vent and USB charging port

The optional GT Technology and GT2 packages boost the feature list, with the former adding:

Pedestrian and cyclist collision avoidance
Navigation-based adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the Forte and the car in front, and can also react to traffic signs and set speed based on navigation data)
Electronic parking brake with auto hold

The GT2 package includes the GT Technology features, plus:

Sunroof
Full simulated leather upholstery
10-way power-adjustable driver's seat
Heated and ventilated front seats
Harman Kardon audio system
Wireless device charging
Rear parking sensors

The manual transmission-equipped GT costs an extra $1,000 and adds nearly all of the standard and optional features listed above. But two safety features are unique to the six-speed GT:

Blind-spot intervention (automatically steers the car back into its lane if you try to change lanes while a car is in the vehicle's blind spot)
Rear automatic braking (brakes if sensors detect an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)

Compare dealer price quotes

2022 Kia Forte pricing

in Ashburn, VA

FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

FE

2.0L 4cyl CVT

$21,058

3 for sale in 20147

LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

LXS

2.0L 4cyl CVT

$21,582

7 for sale in 20147

GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

GT-Line

2.0L 4cyl CVT

$23,244

3 for sale in 20147

GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)

GT

1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM

$25,889

7 for sale in 20147

See all for sale

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2022 Kia Forte.

Average user rating: 4.8 stars

6 total reviews

See all 6 reviews

5 star reviews: 83%

4 star reviews: 17%

3 star reviews: 0%

2 star reviews: 0%

1 star reviews: 0%

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

5/5 stars, Smooth Ride

Deanna Glass, 11/16/2021

GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

This car is the smoothest ride ever it has everything I ever imagined I’m so thankful for having this car for me and my family I like that it has sport normal and smart drive modes I highly recommend this car if you like driving fast on the expressway

5/5 stars, 18 year old Mazda6...2022 Kia Forte LXS

Jeffrey, 01/05/2022

LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

My Mazda6i was a little quicker, handled a little better, but the Forte excelles in driver comfort, quiet ride...and almost twice the gas mileage! Yes, I'm aware of the age difference, but I paid $15,000 for the Mazda in 2003 and only $20,000 for the Forte 18 Years later! I got a good deal then, but a better deal with the Kia...cars have come a long way!

4/5 stars, My GT Line is just fine

Scott D., 01/10/2022

GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

My Forte is a very good (but not great) little car. It's well made, stylish and comfortable. Which makes my work commute a more pleasant experience. I like how it keeps the road noise down, making it feel like a more expensive car. Overall I am very happy with it thus far. But it isn't a "muscle car", so if that's what you crave, then buy something else. I like that it has a "sport mode"

5/5 stars, Excellent value

Sean Flynner, 11/29/2021

GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

Our 2022 Kia Forte GT-Line provides us a great value in that it’s both sporty and SAFE (many high tech safety features). Love the look, the way it drives and all that it provides in terms of peace of mind.

See all 6 reviews

Helpful shopping links

2022 Kia Forte video

2019 Kia Forte | First Drive

[MUSIC PLAYING] MARK TAKAHASHI: Not everyone can afford a Maybach, or even a Mustang. That's where the compact class of sedans and hatchbacks come in. Behind me here is the all-new, fully redesigned 2019 Kia Forte. And it's a great place to start. [MUSIC PLAYING] This time around, the Forte is slightly bigger overall. And as you can see, it takes a lot of [INAUDIBLE] cues from the evocative Kia Stinger. And that's a good thing. It looks sharp, sharper than you'd expect for the compact class of sedans. The question is, how does it stack up against the rest of the competition? We'll get to that in a bit. In the meantime, do us a favor and hit Subscribe below. [MUSIC PLAYING] In the compact sedan class, you sort of have to temper your expectations. But the Forte exceeds expectations in a number of ways. I wasn't all that jazzed about 147-horsepower continuously variable transmission. Those CVTs tend to suck the life out of any car. But the Kia's CVT does a really good job of being more responsive and quicker to accelerate right off the line. It doesn't have that sluggishness or rubber band feel that other CVTs have. And when you're going to pass slower traffic, it does a good job of dropping down into a lower ratio, much like an automatic transmission would, where it just drops you into a lower gear by about two or three. So you get that good punch when you need it. And that's pretty unique in the class, or unique for CVTs in general, actually. The ride quality, it's a little stiff, but not objectionable. In return for that stiffness, it handles pretty well. Not quite as well as the Mazda 3, but far better than most drivers will ever need. One thing counting against it is the rear torsion-beam suspension. And that tends to be a little nervous over mid-corner bumps. That is the case with the Forte, but again, not to objectionable levels. There is a noticeable amount of wind and road noise, though. But again, I'm driving with the radio off. And this has the premium Harman/Kardon system. Just turn it up a little. It should drown it out just fine. In the class, the Forte competes against kind of entry-level sedans. So Corolla from Toyota, Honda Civic, Mazda 3. Those are kind of my picks in the class. Not so much the Corolla, but I really like the Mazda 3. And this, well, it seems to offer quite a bit more than the Mazda, especially when it comes to advanced safety features. This comes standard with forward collision warning, blind spot monitors, and all the latest modern cars have. One thing I like about it, though, is I'm not getting a lot of false alarms. And the Lane Keep Assist on this top trim is actually really good. Comparing prices between the Civic and the Mazda 3 to the Forte, the Forte has a slight advantage just because it has a lot more features. For the base-model Forte, prices start right around 18.5, 18.6. That's manual transmission, lowest trim level. Probably not going to be a lot of people taking that. For another 1,000 or so, you get the CVT. This is the Launch edition EX. This is the EX with all the options. So all the advanced safety features, different colored wheels, sunroof, navigation. It goes on and on and on. It's just over $26,000, though. That's a bit much for this class. But the regular EX, right around $23,000. And that makes a lot more sense, because you get a lot for that, as well. And you have the option to add stuff. But you probably won't need the navigation because it comes standard with Apple Car Play, as long as you have a cell signal, obviously. And the voice recognition is still probably the best out there, in any car. Not only does the Forte draw on some of the Stinger's exterior styling, but also on the interior. It's got the wide dash, just like that, as well as these racy-looking round vents. Materials quality is really good for the class. Everything that you touch has nice, good, soft cushioning to it. So your elbows are well-padded. And elsewhere, when it is plastic, is grained really well. There's really not a whole lot of hard plastic in here to kind of take you out of the fantasy of driving a nicer car. One thing I really did like as soon as I sat down, though, was the amount of travel the steering wheel has. Now, that's quite a bit, so that means that taller drivers aren't going to have to sacrifice their driving position. You have a ton of features here, as well. The infotainment has a standard eight-inch screen. It's sharp, it's responsive, it's quick. And you have a good amount of physical buttons here, which means you won't have to dig through menus just to get some simple operations done. Also standard is dual-zone automatic climate control. That's unusual for the class as a standard feature, even on the base model. On this top trim, you also get ventilated and heated seats, which makes it really comfortable on a hot, muggy day like today. On this top trim, you also get a wireless charging pad, as well as a USB port right under it, and another one right under your center armrest. Despite being a compact sedan, the Forte doesn't skimp on rear seat space. I'm five foot 10, sitting behind the driver's seat, which is set for me. And I have plenty of leg room and knee room. And my hair's just barely brushing the headliner. That means the average adult will be just fine back here. Materials quality, as you'd expect, isn't quite as nice. A little more hard plastic. But if I didn't tap that, I wouldn't have known. I also have a nice center armrest here. I'd be comfortable back here for a road trip. Not a single complaint. And I also have vents right here for climate control. So, well done, Kia. [MUSIC PLAYING] After spending a lot of time with this Forte, I can say it gives the class-leading Mazda 3 and Honda Civic a run for the money. Honestly, I would take it over the Civic. The Mazda, in my view, is still the best driving in the class. But for a lot of people, it's not that important. What is important is stretching their dollar. And the Forte does that. It delivers a lot. A lot of advanced safety features, a lot of infotainment, a lot of just quality overall. For more information on the Forte, as well as its competition, head on over to edmunds.com. If you want to see more videos like this, hit Subscribe. [MUSIC PLAYING]

2019 Kia Forte | First Drive

NOTE: This video is about the 2019 Kia Forte, but since the 2022 Kia Forte is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.

Edmunds Senior Writer Mark Takahashi took a spin in the all-new 2019 Kia Forte, the latest entrant in the affordable compact sedan class. The Forte faces some tough competitors in the class, but it rises to meet the challenge with praiseworthy driving dynamics and a value-packed list

Features & Specs

Trim

Total MSRP: $20,115

MPG & Fuel: 31 City / 41 Hwy / 35 Combined; Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.0 gal. capacity

Seating: 5 seats

Drivetrain: Type: front wheel drive; Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic

Engine: Inline 4 cylinder; Horsepower: 147 hp @ 6200 rpm; Torque: 132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Basic Warranty: 5 yr./ 60000 mi.

Dimensions: Length: 182.7 in. / Height: 56.5 in.; Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A; Overall Width without Mirrors: 70.9 in.; Curb Weight: 2769 lbs.; Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 15.3 cu.ft.

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Forte safety features:

Forward Collision Avoidance: Applies the brakes automatically to avoid a collision with an obstacle in front of the vehicle.
Blind-Spot Collision Warning: Alerts the driver to the presence of other vehicles in the car's blind spots.
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning: Monitors for moving traffic behind the vehicle when in reverse.

NHTSA Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	4 / 5
Driver	4 / 5
Passenger	3 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	10.7%

Kia Forte vs. the competition

2022 Kia Forte

2022 Kia Forte

2022 Honda Civic

2022 Honda Civic

Kia Forte vs. Honda Civic

But for a few spotty patches in its celebrated history, the Civic has set the pace for other compact sedans. That remains true today with the redesigned 2022 Civic, which has traded its earlier wild style for a more conventional small sedan look. The Civic costs more than the Forte, but you get more rear legroom, more dynamic handling and a zestier engine. The Forte counters with a bit more trunk space and a longer warranty.

Compare Kia Forte & Honda Civic features

Kia Forte vs. Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 rises a notch above its rivals with an interior that feels more like a premium European sedan than a mainstream economy car. Like other Mazdas, the 3 is quick and responsive to driver input thanks to a buttoned-down suspension and strong standard engine (an optional turbo engine makes the 3 even quicker). The Mazda doesn't offer the Forte's cargo space, though, and its back seat is tight even for a small sedan. A Mazda 3 hatchback version offers an alternative for those who need more room.

Compare Kia Forte & Mazda 3 features

Kia Forte vs. Subaru Impreza

The Impreza might lack a bit of personality with its slabby, unremarkable exterior style and plain interior, but there's still plenty to like. An impressive suite of standard driver aids and standard all-wheel drive is a boon for drivers in wet weather climates. It's also quiet and comfortable on the road, offers slightly more rear legroom than the Forte, and even offers a manual transmission on its lower trims for budget buyers who prefer shifting gears themselves.

Compare Kia Forte & Subaru Impreza features

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4.5454545 average Rating out of 11 reviews.
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2022 Kia Forte First Impressions

by the Edmunds Experts

•03/31/2021 (updated 10/12/2021)

What is the Forte?

The Kia Forte is one of Kia's smallest and least expensive vehicles, but it's also one of Kia's best. For 2022, the Kia Forte is getting a major overhaul, with the most obvious changes made to the exterior. There you'll find a new interpretation of Kia's ubiquitous "Tiger Nose" grille up front, a new corporate badge, and revised front and rear bumpers. Upper trim levels get LED foglights that integrate with the lower part of the front bumper, but all Fortes will be adorned with slim, triple-stacked LED daytime running lights that flow into the new grille.

Inside, the 4.2-inch upgraded driver information display (previously only available on the top-spec GT model) is now standard, and the GT and GT-Line models get a new 10.25-inch touchscreen, up from the 8-inch screen you'll find on other models. There is some benefit to sticking with the lower trim levels, however, as the 8-inch screen now gains wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The larger screen requires a wired connection for these features. The manual parking brake also switches to a button — a moment of silence for anyone who dreamt of practicing J-turns in a Forte.

What's under the Forte's hood?

The changes are less radical under the hood. The Forte will continue to offer two engine choices. The first and less powerful is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft torque. This year, the six-speed manual transmission is dropped for this engine; the motor is paired exclusively to a continuously variable automatic.

For those who want a little more juice, a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque is available in the GT trim. Thankfully, the GT is still offered with a manual transmission, though a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is also available.

How's the Forte's tech?

We've already covered the changes to the Forte's infotainment system upgrades for 2022, but Kia is also gracing the compact sedan with additional safety features. An automatic lane centering feature is new and standard for this year, and the standard forward collision system is upgraded to detect pedestrians. New to the options list are a safe-exit warning feature (to alert you if you're about to open your door with traffic approaching from behind) and a speed-based adaptive cruise control system that can lower your speed as speed limits drop. The rear cross-traffic system can now apply the brakes if an object is detected behind the vehicle while in reverse.

Edmunds says

The changes to the 2022 Kia Forte are significant, but we wonder if the changes are enough to make this compact Kia competitive with the class-leading 2022 Honda Civic.

by the Edmunds Experts

•03/31/2021 (updated 10/12/2021)

What is the Forte?

The Kia Forte is a small sedan that competes with big names like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Volkswagen Jetta — and it more than holds its own. In fact, the Forte currently sits No. 2 in our rankings behind only the Civic. Reasons include the Kia's attractive pricing and a ton of standard features, plus helpful technology and excellent fuel economy ratings.

But there is an obvious flaw in the Forte, and that is its outdated styling compared with the rest of the Kia lineup. Stablemates including the K5 sedan and the Telluride SUV now set the visual aesthetic for the brand, leaving the Forte languishing with its older look. We expect the 2022 Forte to make only minor improvements, perhaps including new features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity — like its cousin, the Hyundai Elantra.

FAQ

Is the Kia Forte a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2022 Forte both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Forte has 15.3 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Kia Forte. Learn more

What's new in the 2022 Kia Forte?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2022 Kia Forte:

Restyled front and rear ends
Additional standard and optional safety features
Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto now come standard
Part of the third Forte generation introduced for 2019

Is the Kia Forte reliable?

To determine whether the Kia Forte is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Forte. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Forte's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2022 Kia Forte a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2022 Kia Forte is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2022 Forte and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2022 Forte is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2022 Kia Forte?

The least-expensive 2022 Kia Forte is the 2022 Kia Forte FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $19,090.

Other versions include:

FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $19,090
LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $19,590
GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $21,290
GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $24,490
GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) which starts at $23,490

What are the different models of Kia Forte?

If you're interested in the Kia Forte, the next question is, which Forte model is right for you? Forte variants include FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), and GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M). For a full list of Forte models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2022 Kia Forte

2022 Kia Forte Overview

The 2022 Kia Forte is offered in the following submodels: Forte Sedan. Available styles include FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M), and GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM). Kia Forte models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 147 hp, depending on engine type. The 2022 Kia Forte comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic. The 2022 Kia Forte comes with a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 10 yr./ 100000 mi. powertrain warranty.

What do people think of the 2022 Kia Forte?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2022 Kia Forte and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2022 Forte 4.8 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2022 Forte.

Pros

Loaded with features at lower price than most competitors
High fuel economy
Easy-to-use tech and infotainment system
Generous warranty

Cons

Stiff ride
Back seat lacks the room of some rivals

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2022 Kia Forte and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2022 Forte featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2022 Kia Forte?

2022 Kia Forte FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

Available Inventory:

We are showing 6 2022 Kia Forte FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.

2022 Kia Forte LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

Available Inventory:

We are showing 13 2022 Kia Forte LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.

2022 Kia Forte GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

Available Inventory:

We are showing 5 2022 Kia Forte GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.

2022 Kia Forte GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)

Available Inventory:

We are showing 13 2022 Kia Forte GT 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.

Which 2022 Kia Fortes are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2022 Kia Forte for sale near. There are currently 37 new 2022 Fortes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $20,085 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2022 Kia Forte. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $300 on a used or CPO 2022 Forte available from a dealership near you.

Can't find a new 2022 Kia Fortes you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Kia for sale.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

What is the MPG of a 2022 Kia Forte?

2022 Kia Forte FE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), continuously variable-speed automatic, regular unleaded
35 mpg compined MPG,
31 city MPG/41 highway MPG

2022 Kia Forte LXS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), continuously variable-speed automatic, regular unleaded
33 mpg compined MPG,
29 city MPG/39 highway MPG

2022 Kia Forte GT-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), continuously variable-speed automatic, regular unleaded
33 mpg compined MPG,
29 city MPG/39 highway MPG

EPA Est. MPG	35
Transmission	Continuously variable-speed automatic
Drive Train	front wheel drive
Displacement	2.0 L
Passenger Volume	111.3 cu.ft.

Wheelbase	106.3 in.
Length	182.7 in.
Width	N/A
Height	56.5 in.
Curb Weight	2769 lbs.

Should I lease or buy a 2022 Kia Forte?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Kia lease specials

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