Just about everything in our lives underwent changes when the coronavirus pandemic took hold around the world. Although we’ve all been impacted by COVID-19, we still need the same utilities we needed before the pandemic — and that includes vehicles. As people get back out there to shop for their next new vehicle, Edmunds released a list of their editors’ favorite picks for cars and SUVs for those trying to stay within a budget during these uncertain times. At the top of their list for cars? The Kia Forte.

Features of the 2020 Kia Forte

The Kia Forte has been around since 2009 and is currently in the second year of a redesign, making it a great time to buy since any bugs have been worked out since 2019. Kia added two trim levels this year: the turbocharged GT, a high-performance model, and the GT-Line, which has the style upgrades of the GT without the engine change. The GT is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 201 hp, while the remaining four trims are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that gets 147 hp.

Where the Forte really shines is in its fuel efficiency. The standard engine will get you 40 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined city/highway, which makes it one of the leading class sedans on the road today. In the technology department, even the base level Forte has a ton to offer. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto all come standard in the 2020 Forte, as does the 8-inch infotainment touchscreen.

The 2020 Kia Forte received a four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick in 2019. Standard safety features include automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

The Kia Forte is a top editor’s pick for 2020

Popular auto website Edmunds has the Kia Forte listed as their top sedan pick for best cars and SUVs under $20,000, perfect for those trying to shop during the coronavirus pandemic while staying within a budget. They do suggest springing for one of the higher trim levels if you can afford it just to get a few more features. Following the Forte is the Subaru Impreza and the Volkswagen Jetta, both of which have a higher price tag than the Forte.

The Kia name has certainly gained some popularity over the years, and it’s found on Edmunds’ list more than once. The Kia Soul also tops their list for SUVs under $20,000, followed by the Hyundai Kona and the Honda HR-V.

What do drivers think about it?

Drivers agree that the 2020 Kia Forte offers a lot of value for its low price tag; it scored an 84/100 on Consumer Reports for “Value — Did you get what you wanted relative to the price you paid?” Its reliability was rated at three out of five, as was its owner satisfaction score.

The consensus for the Kia Forte is that it is great for those on a budget, especially given how many tech features are included at the base level. If you’re finally ready to head out car shopping, the 2020 Kia Forte is an expert-recommended budget-friendly sedan that will last you many more years to come.