2024 Kia Forte: What Is the Car’s Biggest Strength and Weakness?
Despite rumors about a next-gen Kia Forte coming soon, the 2024 model year Forte has been revealed without any noteworthy updates. For the 2022 model year, it received a nice facelift and new tech features to help it stay relevant amid the competition. So, here’s everything to love about the 2024 Kia Forte and one outstanding flaw potential buyers should know about.
What car critics say about the 2024 Kia Forte
Edmunds test drivers gave the latest Kia Forte a good rating, citing high fuel economy as one of its biggest strengths. The LX is the most efficient trim available, estimated to earn 34 mpg combined. However, the 201-hp turbo-four engine in the GT model is still rated for up to 30 mpg combined.
The 2024 Kia Forte’s base engine is a regular four-cylinder with 147 hp on tap, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The turbocharged engine can be paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual. However, choosing the latter gearbox results in a minor efficiency loss.
Test drivers also thought the interior was designed with upscale materials and featured comfortable seats. Except for the voice recognition software, all the technology features work without any issues or learning curves.
The Forte’s price point is arguably its best quality
The 2024 Kia Forte is an excellent value for the price, starting at only $19,790. Even the range-topping Forte GT only starts at $24,490 with the dual-clutch automatic transmission, and buyers can pay $700 for the manual transmission option.
Despite not offering any significant changes for 2024, the Forte has a decent selection of features. Every trim has numerous drive modes for sportiness, comfort, or efficiency. The model isn’t available with all-wheel drive, which makes the “Snow” setting helpful on slippery surfaces. Putting the Forte in Smart mode automatically adjusts suspension performance according to your driving mannerisms.
The LX trim has room for five riders on cloth-upholstered seats. The interior also features an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and wireless smartphone integration. The standard Drive Wise safety suite has driver attention monitoring, rear occupant alert, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist functions. Every trim also has basic cruise control, operated from the steering wheel.
The Kia Forte LXS trim is barely more expensive at $20,290 and adds 60/40 split-folding rear seats. That allows more use of the trunk, which is already roomy at 15 cubic feet. For only $500 more, you can add three extra features to the safety suite.
On top of all that, Kia provides generous warranty coverage. The car comes with 10 years/100,000 miles of powertrain protection, and the basic warranty covers the car’s first five years/60,000 miles. Additionally, roadside assistance is free for six years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
What is the 2024 Forte’s biggest flaw?
Although the Kia Forte’s interior is comfortable in most situations, a rigid rear suspension negatively affects this small car. Big bumps unsettle the cabin even on the smoothest roads. Though Edmunds didn’t test it, due to the 2024 model year being a carryover, the Kia Forte GT has an adaptive suspension that could make its ride more forgiving.
Test drivers also thought the car’s cornering and handling could be better. The CVT’s power delivery isn’t always smooth, but it operates well at a consistent speed. Reviewers also had no complaints about the base four-cylinder engine’s performance at commuter or highway speeds.
The 2024 Kia Forte is undoubtedly a bargain, but don’t expect a perfect driving experience.
