Affordable cars are increasingly hard to find, but Kia has announced the 2024 Forte will begin at $19,790.
That’s $100 more than its predecessor, but it likely won’t hamper enthusiasm for the model, which is the brand’s second best-selling vehicle in America. However, changes are limited as the 2024 Forte GT-Line eschews the previously optional Tech Package and now comes standard with “Front Collision Alert Fusion, a combination of Front Collision Alert-Cyclist, Electronic Parking, Highway Driver Assist, and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control.”
There doesn’t appear to be any other updates, but the entry-level Forte LX has halogen headlights, body-color components, and 15-inch steel wheels. Buyers will also find air conditioning, a four-speaker audio system, and an immobilizer. They’re joined by a 4.2-inch multi-information display and an 8-inch infotainment system.
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Despite sitting at the bottom of the lineup, the LX has Forward Collision Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keeping Assist. They’re joined by Lane Following Assist, High-Beam Assist, Rear Occupant Detection Alert, and Driver Attention Warning.
Motivation is provided by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS) and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to an Intelligent Variable Transmission, which sends power to the front wheels.
Customers looking for more performance can opt for the range-topping Forte GT, which begins at $24,490. It features a sportier exterior with LED lighting units, gloss black accents, a rear spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The upgrades continue in the cabin as there’s a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and SynTex or cloth/SynTex seats. Other highlights include alloy pedals, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a wireless smartphone charger, and a six- or eight-speaker audio system. Buyers will also find additional driver assistance technology including Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Highway Driving Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
On the performance front, the usual torsion beam is replaced by a multi-link rear suspension. More importantly, the GT has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque. It can be paired to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.