The new 2021 Kia Forte is a small compact sedan that offers plenty of features for an invested money. It’s very affordable and it cost a little less than $18,000. According to the manufacturer, the upcoming sedan will be refreshed and it will be equipped with plenty of advanced driver safety features.
Like before, the story will continue through the five trim levels: FE, LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. Each of these trims are very well equipped and all of them provide its own uniqueness.
2021 Kia Forte Exterior Changes
The upcoming 2021 Kia Forte is the most compelling small sedan on the market. This model was totally redesigned last year and we can expect minor updates. Some new images are available and the latest Kia Forte hosts a sportier exterior. Its design language is similar to the Stinger model that is Kia’s highly rated sports sedan, which is a good thing.
At the front, this sedan looks more aggressive than before. Side of this sedan remains almost the same and the manufacturer used 15-inch steel wheels on the base FE trim. However, the snazzier 16-inch alloys are available on the LXS trim. The Forte GT model, meanwhile, will add sportier look with a dedicated grille design, red-painted brake calipers, and the bigger 18-inch alloy wheels.
2021 Kia Forte Trim Levels Specs
The new 2021 Kia Forte is the small sedan that will be available in trims FE, LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. Comfort inside is better and this compact model has enough room for five passengers. The least expensive trim FE includes an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, height-adjustable front seats, and a four-speaker audio system with a USB port. The FE features more equipment like rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Moving up to the LXS trim will add 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and soft-touch dash and door surfaces.
One of the equipment trim is the GT-Line. The model that wears this package will include heated mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a rear armrest, a six-speaker audio system, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and cloth upholstery with simulated-leather side bolsters.
The last trim is EX that includes most of its convenience features. This trim adds dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and simulated leather upholstery.
2021 Kia Forte Engine and Transmission Options
The new 2021 Kia Forte is available in five trim levels: FE, LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. All models except the GT will use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine capable of making 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, respectively.
This model will use a six-speed manual transmission on the FE trim. However, the continuously variable automatic transmission is optional for the FE trim and standard on other trim levels. The next engine powers the GT model and it consists of turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that delivers no less than 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. With this powertrain, buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Release Date and Cost
The new 2021 Kia Forte will wear a better appearance. From many speculations, the redesigned version will be available for purchase later this year. The price of the base model will be a little less than $18,000. As you can see, this sedan is very affordable. However, depending on the trim level, the price can pass the $25,000 mark. The ride quality is good, but not as smooth as rivals like Civic and cross-shopping the Mazda 3 provide.
