We understand why crossovers and SUVs are the most desirable in the eyes of modern consumers, but new compact sedans like the 2023 Kia Forte are begging us to reconsider. Kia gave the 2022 Forte a significant redesign with new front and rear fascias, new safety tech, and an available 10.25-inch infotainment system, all at under $21,000. It also has a user-friendly and ergonomic cabin with enough room for five in a pinch.

2023 Kia Forte: What?s New"

The 2023 Kia Forte is entering the U.S. market virtually unchanged from the outgoing variant after receiving a moderate sprinkling of exterior and interior updates for 2022. It includes a redesigned ?tiger nose? front grille, reshaped headlights, new wheel designs, and an updated list of advanced safety features. That list includes lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, forward collision mitigation, and driver attention warning.
Meanwhile, the base FE trim from last year has given way to the Forte LX, and the range-topping GT remains available with a manual transmission to pair with the gutsy 1.6-liter turbo engine.

Engine & Transmission

The 2023 Kia Forte is available with two engine choices. The Forte LX, LXS, and GT Line have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft. of torque. The engine sends power to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It will not take your breath away during acceleration, but the 2.0-...