The 2021 Kia Forte is one of those vehicles that isn’t given much credit. That may be because it’s a Kia, but you know what? This Kia has a lot going for it, especially when you compare it to a vehicle like the 2021 Subaru Impreza. Don’t just take our word for it though. We’ve got three reasons that make the 2021 Kia Forte a better choice than its Subaru competition. 

The 2021 Kia Forte offers multiple engine options

At the heart of the 2021 Kia Forte is a 147-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. That’s not your only option though. This year’s Forte can also be had with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that’s able to churn out a full 201-hp. According to Kelley Blue Book, its available turbocharged engine gives it a “healthy amount of muscle for a compact sedan” too.

As for the Subaru Impreza? Well, there’s not much to choose from. This year’s model comes standard with a 152-hp 2.0-liter flat-4 engine under its hood. That’s it though for the Subaru Impreza because, unfortunately, there are no other options available.

Kia’s warranty is pretty hard to beat

Kia offers pretty great warranty coverage. All 2021 Kia Forte models come standard with the automaker’s 10-year/100,000 mile warranty program, which includes a 10-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000 mile limited basic warranty, and a 5-year/100,000 mile limited anti-perforation warranty. The Forte is standard with a 5-year/60,000 mile roadside assistance plan too.

Unfortunately for Subaru shoppers, warranty coverage for the 2021 Subaru Impreza isn’t nearly as extensive. Unlike the Forte, this year’s Impreza is covered by a 3-year/36,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Roadside assistance isn’t included unless you opt for a higher trim level either. 

It’s cheaper than the 2021 Subaru Impreza

Price is important when shopping for a new car. You don’t want to buy something that’s out of your budget and leaves you feeling frustrated at the end of the month. Fortunately, both the Subaru Impreza and the Kia Forte are modestly priced.

In the end though, one vehicle is cheaper than the other. Opt for the Subaru Impreza, and you can expect to spend a minimum of $18,795 for one with a manual transmission. If you’re after a continuously variable transmission, that price jumps to $22,195. 

The 2021 Kia Forte, on the other hand, has a starting price of $17,890 if you opt for the manual transmission, and $19,390 if you’d rather have an automatic transmission.

Should you pick the 2021 Kia Forte over its Subaru competitor?

There’s no denying that the 2021 Subaru Impreza is a great vehicle. It’s popular, and for plenty of reasons. The problem is just can’t beat what the 2021 Kia Forte has to offer. It’s more expensive, doesn’t offer multiple engines to choose from, and comes standard with some pretty lackluster warranty coverage. The Forte, on the other hand, aims to please with its available turbocharged engine, reasonable price tag, and industry-leading warranty.