The Good
The 2024 KIA Forte boasts numerous advantages, appealing to both heart and wallet. Practically, its exceptional value, strong fuel efficiency, and industry-leading warranty make it an economical choice. Emotionally, its sharp design, comfortable interior, and the thrilling performance of the GT trim provide an engaging driving experience. Standard tech and safety features further enhance its appeal, offering peace of mind and modern convenience.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2024 KIA Forte include its base engine, which can feel somewhat underpowered, and the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), which may exhibit droning under hard acceleration. Interior materials, while well-assembled, lean towards hard plastics in lower trims. Some drivers also note increased road noise at highway speeds, and the lack of an available all-wheel-drive system might be a drawback for certain regions.
2024 KIA Forte: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of the 2024 KIA Forte's key specifications:
- Engine Options:
- 2.0-liter 4-cylinder MPI (Multi-Point Injection) Atkinson-cycle engine.
- 1.6-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L Engine: 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm.
- 1.6L Turbo Engine: 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm.
- Torque:
- 2.0L Engine: 132 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm.
- 1.6L Turbo Engine: 195 lb-ft at 1,500-4,500 rpm.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.0L Engine with Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT): 30 MPG City / 41 MPG Highway / 34 MPG Combined (for LX, LXS).
- 2.0L Engine with IVT: 28 MPG City / 39 MPG Highway / 32 MPG Combined (for GT-Line).
- 1.6L Turbo Engine with 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT): 27 MPG City / 35 MPG Highway / 30 MPG Combined (for GT DCT).
- 1.6L Turbo Engine with 6-speed Manual Transmission: 22 MPG City / 31 MPG Highway / 26 MPG Combined (for GT Manual).
- 0-60 MPH Times (Approximate):
- 2.0L Engine: In the range of 8.2 – 8.6 seconds.
- 1.6L Turbo Engine: In the range of 6.7 – 7.2 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: The 2024 KIA Forte is not officially rated or recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: Standard 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wireless), Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear View Monitor with Dynamic Parking Guidelines, projector headlights.
- LXS: Builds on LX with 16-inch alloy wheels, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, Smart Trunk, and selectable drive modes.
- GT-Line: Sporty exterior styling (unique front/rear fascias, side sills), 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, sport design steering wheel, sport seats with SynTex and cloth trim, available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, available sunroof, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
- GT: Features the more powerful 1.6L Turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, performance exhaust, 18-inch GT-exclusive alloy wheels, larger front brakes, unique GT exterior and interior accents, available 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT, LED headlights.
2024 KIA Forte Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2024 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Forte |
| Trim | - |
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Engine & Performance
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Pricing
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Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2024 KIA Forte Have?
As the 2024 KIA Forte is a relatively new model year, comprehensive long-term reliability data and a wide array of frequently reported problems are not yet fully established. However, based on previous model years of the current generation (which began in 2019) and other KIA vehicles, some potential areas to monitor or concerns that have been occasionally reported can be discussed.
One area sometimes mentioned relates to the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) paired with the 2.0-liter engine. While generally smooth and efficient, some owners occasionally report a "droning" noise under hard acceleration or a slight hesitation in certain driving conditions. Early iterations of these CVTs across the industry sometimes faced durability questions, but KIA's IVT has matured and generally holds up well with proper maintenance.
For the performance-oriented GT trim with its 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT), some drivers might experience the characteristic slight jerkiness at very low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic, which is common for DCTs across various manufacturers. It's not typically a 'problem' but a characteristic of the transmission type.
Historically, certain KIA/Hyundai GDI engines from older generations (predominantly pre-2019) had widely publicized issues with oil consumption and engine knocking. While the Forte's 1.6L turbo engine is GDI, and the 2.0L is a port-injected (MPI) Atkinson cycle engine, these older concerns are less relevant to the current generation. KIA has made significant improvements in engine design and manufacturing quality. Owners should always adhere strictly to recommended oil change intervals and use the specified oil type.
Minor electronic glitches or infotainment system quirks are common across all new vehicles, and the Forte is not immune to potential software bugs or connectivity issues that typically get resolved with updates. Regarding the highly publicized theft issues, these primarily affected older Kia and Hyundai models lacking engine immobilizers, a feature generally standard in the 2024 Forte and newer vehicles. Kia has also rolled out software updates for affected older models to address this.
Recalls: As of its release, no major widespread recalls for the 2024 Forte have been extensively reported. Consumers should always check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date information on any potential recalls for their specific VIN.
Overall, KIA's reliability has significantly improved over the last decade, and the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty offered by KIA provides substantial peace of mind regarding long-term durability. Regular, diligent maintenance is the best defense against long-term problems for any vehicle.
How long will the 2024 KIA Forte last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2024 KIA Forte is well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of built-in tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features, offering impressive value in its segment.
Entertainment and Connectivity: Standard across all trims is an 8-inch touchscreen display providing seamless integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ (wireless on the 8-inch unit), allowing for intuitive smartphone mirroring. Higher trims, such as the GT-Line and GT, offer an optional larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display that includes navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and enhanced voice recognition. Other available tech includes a wireless phone charger, multiple USB ports, and for audiophiles, an optional Harman Kardon® premium audio system for a richer sound experience.
Driver-Assistance & Safety (KIA Drive Wise): KIA's "Drive Wise" suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is a significant highlight. Standard features on all models include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and a Rear View Monitor with Dynamic Parking Guidelines. Available or optional features on higher trims elevate safety further, encompassing Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC) which can adjust speed for curves, Highway Driving Assist (HDA), and Parking Distance Warning – Rear (PDW-R).
In terms of passive safety, the Forte is equipped with a comprehensive airbag system, anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC).
Crash-Test Ratings: While the 2024 model's specific crash test ratings may still be pending, they are expected to closely mirror those of the 2023 model, given no significant structural changes. The 2023 KIA Forte received generally good ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It scored "Good" in most crashworthiness tests, including the moderate overlap front, side (original test), roof strength, and head restraints & seats. It earned an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side crash test. Front crash prevention systems (vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian) were rated "Superior." Headlight ratings varied by trim, ranging from "Good" to "Poor." It was not designated as a Top Safety Pick. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically gives the Forte a 4-star overall safety rating (4 stars for frontal, 5 for side, and 4 for rollover for the 2023 model year). These ratings indicate a respectable level of safety for a compact sedan.
What Colors Options are Available?
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2024 KIA Forte Prices and Market Value
As the 2024 model year is current, there are virtually no 'used' 2024 models available yet. However, looking at recent prior model years (2022-2023), used market prices for a Forte in good condition with average mileage typically range from $17,000-$19,000 for an LXS to $20,000-$24,000 for a GT, depending heavily on factors like mileage, condition, specific features, and regional demand.
Regarding depreciation, compact sedans generally experience higher depreciation than larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks. However, the Forte benefits from KIA's improved brand image, strong reliability ratings, and particularly its transferable 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which helps mitigate depreciation somewhat compared to some rivals. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the specific trim level (GT and GT-Line models tend to hold value better due to their features and performance), overall condition, complete service history, and desirable optional packages. A remaining factory warranty is a major boost to resale value.
2024 KIA Forte Cost of Ownership
2024 KIA Forte Fuel Efficiency
2024 KIA Forte Safety Rating
NHTSA
2024 KIA Forte Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2024 KIA Forte Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 2024 KIA Forte competes in the fiercely contested compact sedan segment, going head-to-head with established rivals such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and its platform sibling, the Hyundai Elantra.
- Performance: The Forte's standard 2.0L engine with 147 hp provides adequate power comparable to the base Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra, though it can feel less lively than the Honda Civic's base engine or the Mazda3's offerings. Where the Forte truly shines is its GT trim, featuring a 201 hp turbocharged 1.6L engine. This variant offers a genuinely sporty driving experience that rivals the Honda Civic Si and the Hyundai Elantra N-Line, often at a more accessible price point.
- Features: KIA consistently excels in offering a wealth of standard features for the price. The Forte typically includes more standard safety technology and infotainment features (like wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto on the base 8-inch screen) than base trims of the Civic or Corolla. The Mazda3 often boasts a more premium interior design and material quality, while the Elantra offers a very similar feature set due to shared platforms.
- Reliability: While Honda and Toyota have a long-standing reputation for bulletproof reliability, KIA has made immense strides. The Forte's reliability is now considered competitive with its Japanese counterparts, and it's backed by an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing significant peace of mind that often surpasses standard warranties from Honda, Toyota, or Mazda.
- Price: Price is arguably one of the Forte's strongest advantages. It consistently undercuts the MSRPs of similarly equipped Honda Civic and Mazda3 models, making it an extremely attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its pricing is often very similar to the Hyundai Elantra and competitive with the Toyota Corolla, while typically offering more standard features.
Recommended Alternatives:
- For overall refinement, driving dynamics, and potential resale: The Honda Civic offers a more refined driving experience, better interior materials, and stronger resale value, though often at a higher price. The Mazda3 provides a near-premium interior, engaging driving dynamics, and available AWD, but also comes with a higher price tag.
- For a very similar value proposition and platform: The Hyundai Elantra is a strong alternative, sharing many mechanical components with the Forte. Choice often comes down to styling preference and specific feature packaging.
- For absolute, bulletproof reliability and conservative ownership: The Toyota Corolla remains a benchmark for trouble-free ownership, though it generally offers a less engaging drive and fewer standard features than the Forte at similar price points.
Final Verdict: Is the 2024 KIA Forte a Good Vehicle?
When considering a purchase, buying a new 2024 Forte offers unbeatable value, allowing you to benefit from the full factory warranty and the latest features. However, for even greater savings, exploring used models from the current generation (2019-2023) can provide much of the same appeal at a significantly reduced price, often with plenty of warranty remaining. The LXS trim represents a sweet spot for most, balancing essential features with affordability. The GT-Line is perfect for those desiring sporty aesthetics, while the GT is the clear choice for drivers craving genuine performance on a budget. Overall, the Forte delivers exceptional value, making it a smart and satisfying purchase.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.