The Kia Forte compact sedan has always had efficient engine choices for drivers to choose from. Plus, it’s packed with other features that competitors, like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, call upgrades. The 2022 Kia Forte offers more at an affordable price and is backed up by an outstanding warranty. It might be a good option for your lifestyle if you are currently in the market for a new car. 

The Kia Forte has two engines available for the 2022 model year, and they are both excellent choices. Let’s dive deeper.

2022 Kia Forte engine options

First, we have the popular engine:

• 2.0-liter inline-4 (FE, LXS, GT-Line)
• 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque
• EPA City/Highway/Combined Fuel Economy: 31/41/35 mpg (FE), 29/39/33 mpg (LXS, GT-Line)
• Price of entry: $19,090

The entry-level engine is the most popular choice. It’s a 147-hp 2.0-liter inline-4 that delivers great fuel economy and performance when you need it most. You won’t be disappointed if you do more city or highway driving. It might take some time to get used to the continuously variable transmission (CVT), but it’s what helps the Forte drive 41 mpg on the highway. Keep in mind the FE trim is slightly more fuel-efficient when compared to the LXS and GT-Line models.

Other standard features with the base model include an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, automatic headlights with high beam assist, and Bluetooth wireless technology hands-free connectivity.

Are you looking for more power under the right foot? Check out the faster engine:

• 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 (GT)
• 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque
• EPA City/Highway/Combined Fuel Economy: 27/35/30 mpg (automatic), 22/31/26 mpg (manual)
• Price of entry: $23,490

This is the turbocharged option, and if you’re willing to pay a little more, it’s certainly worth the thrills. Performance-wise, it’s similar to the Honda Civic Si but with a lower sticker price. Depending on your driving style, you can get the turbocharged Forte GT equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual. The manual transmission certainly puts you, the driver, in more control.

Additional standard features with the GT trims include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED Headlights, a 6-speaker audio system, a wireless phone charger, and Safe Exit Warning.

Here’s the engine recommended by KBB

Ready to hear the engine option that KBB recommends? Surprisingly, it’s the entry-level engine. According to KBB, ” The Forte GT is an excellent value in sport compacts, but the Forte with the base engine is a better value overall because of its lower price tag and better fuel economy.”

Is the Kia Forte a good car?

Yes, the Kia Forte is a good car. The 2022 model year brings a refreshed exterior design, new technology features, powerful engine options, and an available manual transmission. It’s also a car that’s focused on safety. All models come equipped with Standard Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist features, which includes Auto Emergency Braking Technology. 

So, which engine are you choosing for your daily commute?