Stuck between the Kia Rio and the Kia K5, the 2023 Kia Forte aims to provide a happy medium. Both frugal and sporty, the top trim Kia Forte GT allows for excitement out of an otherwise standard sedan. The 2023 Kia Forte GT does everything without being the best. Good design, peppy drivetrain, and average technology make the new Kia Forte a well-rounded package. 

Is the Kia Forte GT a fast car?

The 2023 Kia Forte comes with two engine packages. A standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower for the regular trims lets the sedan hum along. You can also opt for a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that squeaks out 201 horsepower. Both engine options come standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) which mutes the performance of the car. However, what wakes up the Forte are the available transmission options.

Available only for turbocharged engines are two transmission options. First is a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which improves shifting speed and precision. Cars equipped with the turbo engine and DCT see over two seconds quicker 0-60 times. Your other option is a six-speed manual transmission. Car&Driver tested the 2023 Kia Forte GT equipped with the manual transmission, dropping the 0-60 to a brisk 6.7-second run. 

Does the Kia Forte GT have heated seats?

Surprisingly, the Kia Forte GT has quite a bit to offer in terms of optional extras. While the base model provides your basic amenities, the Forte’s real value lies in the higher-trim models. Stepping into the 2023 Kia Forte, you realize that Kia is stepping up their game. High-quality materials like soft faux leather, red seat stitching, and metal accents give you a classy feel you wouldn’t expect. In addition, extras such as dual-zone climate control, along with heated and ventilated front seats, are welcomed options for the seemingly basic Kia Forte.

Given the available technology in the 2023 Kia Forte GT, you get a lot of value for the cost. An 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen equipped with Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto is standard. On the GT-line and GT trim, you bump up to a 10.3-inch display with in-dash navigation. In addition, each trim has a secondary 4.2-inch color display in the gauge cluster, and a wireless smartphone charger is optional. 

How much does the 2023 Kia Forte cost?

One of the best reasons to purchase a 2023 Kia Forte is the excellent value it holds. With the base model starting at $20,585, you can snag a solidly reliable sedan with some quality materials. The top trim 2023 Kia Forte GT starts at $25,285 and gives the most bang for your buck. Ditching the Forte’s standard CVT, the GT trim comes standard with the seven-speed DCT. 

For an additional $700, you can opt for the six-speed manual. Just shy of $26,000, a manual transmission Forte GT is the best overall. There is less worry about tacking on costs with the Forte GT as well. The GT comes with 18-inch wheels, a wireless charger, sports seats, and ambient interior lighting.

Is the 2023 Forte GT worth it?

Overall, the 2023 Kia Forte GT brings more to the table than its price tag demands. Having the option to purchase a new, turbo, manual sedan in this age is few and far between. Even more surprising is being able to buy one of these cars for under $30,000. Kia aims to provide vehicles for enthusiasts at a fraction of the cost. Hopefully, they will continue to do so.