2020 Kia Forte

Pros: Competitive pricing; good passenger room for a compact; nicely finished interior

Cons: Engine noise under hard acceleration; real-world fuel economy doesn’t match EPA numbers

CG Says: The 2020 Kia Forte drops its S trim and adds new GT-Line and GT models. The GT-Line adds unique trim, but has the same 147-horsepower engine as other Fortes. The sporty GT has sport suspension and a 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automated-manual transmission. The Kia Forte compact sedan was redesigned for 2019. (Kia’s Forte5 4-door hatchback has been dropped.) All Fortes (except the previously mentioned GT) have a 147-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that is paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. The Forte’s available features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, driver attention monitor, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, and wireless cell-phone charging. The 2020 Kia Forte doesn’t outshine its rivals in any key area, but it’s a pleasant car that maintains Kia’s tradition of offering an outstanding value for the dollar.