What To Know
- The Kia Forte has been a popular compact car for years, offering a blend of style, practicality, and value.
- But for those seeking a bit more excitement and performance, the Kia Forte GT stands out as a compelling option.
- The GT’s engine provides a noticeable boost in acceleration and responsiveness, making it a more engaging choice for enthusiasts.
The Kia Forte has been a popular compact car for years, offering a blend of style, practicality, and value. But for those seeking a bit more excitement and performance, the Kia Forte GT stands out as a compelling option. But with two distinct models, choosing between the Kia Forte vs Kia Forte GT can be challenging. This comprehensive guide will break down the key differences between these two models, helping you determine which one best suits your needs and desires.
Performance: A Tale of Two Engines
The Kia Forte and Forte GT diverge significantly when it comes to performance. The standard Forte is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While providing sufficient power for everyday driving, the standard Forte’s engine lacks the punch and excitement found in the GT.
The Kia Forte GT, on the other hand, boasts a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a substantial 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, resulting in a thrilling driving experience. The GT’s engine provides a noticeable boost in acceleration and responsiveness, making it a more engaging choice for enthusiasts.
Handling and Steering: A Focus on Sportiness
The Kia Forte GT’s performance aspirations extend beyond its engine. It features a sport-tuned suspension that delivers a more responsive and engaging driving experience. The GT’s suspension is firmer than the standard Forte’s, offering better handling and cornering capabilities. The steering is also more direct and precise, allowing for more precise control on winding roads.
The standard Kia Forte, while not as sporty as the GT, still offers a comfortable and predictable ride. Its suspension is tuned for a smoother ride, making it a better choice for daily commutes and long road trips.
Design: A Nod to Sportiness
The Kia Forte GT‘s sporty ambitions are evident in its design. It features a more aggressive front fascia with a larger grille, a more prominent rear diffuser, and unique 18-inch alloy wheels. The GT also boasts a sportier interior with unique upholstery and a flat-bottom steering wheel.
The standard Kia Forte, while not as dramatic as the GT, still boasts a sleek and modern design. It features a stylish front grille, sharp lines, and a well-proportioned body. The interior is comfortable and well-appointed, offering a pleasant driving environment.
Features and Technology: A Blend of Comfort and Convenience
Both the Kia Forte and Forte GT offer an impressive suite of features and technology. The standard Forte comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add features like a sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium sound system.
The Kia Forte GT adds a few extra features, including a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a head-up display, and a sport-tuned exhaust system. The GT also offers a more driver-focused interior with sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel.
Fuel Economy: A Balancing Act
The Kia Forte offers impressive fuel economy for a compact car. The standard Forte with the CVT gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined. The manual transmission version gets slightly lower fuel economy ratings.
The Kia Forte GT, with its powerful turbocharged engine, achieves slightly lower fuel economy figures. It gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. While the GT’s fuel economy is lower, it still delivers respectable numbers for a performance-oriented compact car.
Price: A Matter of Perspective
The Kia Forte starts at a very affordable price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The GT, with its performance upgrades and additional features, carries a higher price tag. However, the GT’s price remains competitive within the performance compact car segment.
Choosing the Right Forte for You
Ultimately, the decision between the Kia Forte and Forte GT comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a practical, fuel-efficient, and comfortable compact car, the standard Forte is an excellent choice. But if you crave performance, a more engaging driving experience, and a sportier aesthetic, the Forte GT is the better option.
A Final Word: Beyond Performance
While the Kia Forte GT offers a thrilling driving experience, it’s important to remember that the standard Forte is still a capable and well-rounded compact car. It offers a comfortable ride, plenty of features, and excellent fuel economy. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your priorities and how you intend to use your car.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What are the key differences between the Kia Forte and Forte GT?
A: The key differences lie in performance, handling, design, and features. The Forte GT boasts a more powerful turbocharged engine, a sport-tuned suspension, a sportier design, and additional features like a head-up display and a sport-tuned exhaust system.
Q: Which Forte is better for daily driving?
A: The standard Kia Forte is a better choice for daily driving due to its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly features.
Q: Which Forte is better for enthusiasts?
A: The Kia Forte GT is the better choice for enthusiasts due to its powerful engine, engaging handling, and sporty design.
Q: What is the starting price for each model?
A: The starting price for the Kia Forte is lower than the Forte GT, making it a more affordable option. However, the GT’s price remains competitive within the performance compact car segment.
Q: Is the Kia Forte GT worth the extra cost?
A: If you prioritize performance and a more engaging driving experience, the Kia Forte GT is worth the extra cost. However, if you prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency, the standard Forte is a better value.
