Kia Forte
Kia Forte
Kia Forte

2021 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 2021 Kia Forte is unchanged. The Kia Forte compact sedan was redesigned for 2019. (Kia’s Forte5 4-door hatchback has been dropped.) The sporty GT has a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automated-manual transmission. All other Fortes 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.

Overall, the 2021 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.

The Facts
Class Compact Car
Body Style(s) 4-door sedan
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Kia
Nation of Manufacture Mexico
Base Prices FE: $18,855
LXS: $20,355
GT-Line: $21,455
EX: $24,055
GT: $23,385

Base Engine
2.0-liter 4-cylinder (FE, LXS, GT-Line, EX)
Horsepower
147
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
CVT
EPA City Range (mpg)
27-31
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
37-41

Optional Engine
turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder (GT)
Horsepower
201
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
7-speed automated-manual
EPA City Range (mpg)
25-27
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
32-35

Kia Forte GT
2021 Kia Forte GT
NHTSA Ratings
Overall - 4
80%

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Crash - 4
80%
Side Crash - 5
100%
Rollover - 4
80%

For complete ratings click here.

Share this: