Best Features to Look for in a Pre-Owned Kia Forte

After a successful 14-year production run, the Kia Forte was discontinued by the automaker at the end of the 2024 model year. However, the decision to replace the Forte with the modern K4 in Kia’s growing lineup wasn’t due to a lack of popularity, as the Forte emerged as one of Kia’s most reliable, commuter-focused sedans to date. Drivers appreciated the Forte’s high-end efficiency, available turbocharged engine option, and wide range of features that punched above their weight class while maintaining a value-conscious price point.

Even though the model has been discontinued, a late-model Forte remains a quality pre-owned option for drivers seeking an efficient, dependable sedan for commuting and daily driving. Throughout its production run, the Kia was known for giving drivers tremendous bang for their car-buying buck, which makes purchasing a used Kia Forte for sale a wise choice for anyone who wants premium features at a reasonable price point.

Engines Options Offer Efficiency or Excitement

While the Forte was developed as a compact car ideal for commuting, some drivers wanted a sedan that offered the exhilaration of heightened power and potent performance. While the standard Forte came equipped with an efficient powerplant made to withstand the rigors of daily driving, there was also a turbocharged option that offered added excitement for drivers who crave speed and acceleration.

Standard Engine

The standard powerplant in the Forte LX, LXS, and GT-Line trim levels was built for durability and efficiency, giving commuters a sedan they could count on for daily driving. First-generation Forte models used a 156-horsepower 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, with a 173-horsepower 2.4-liter version available on upper trims.  In the second generation, the Forte was equipped with either a 148-horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder or a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that offered excellent fuel efficiency for its class.

In the final incarnation of the Forte, including vehicles made between 2018 and 2024, the standard engine was a 2.0-liter inline-four powerplant that was paired with either a CVT, a six-speed automatic, or a six-speed manual transmission, depending on the year. Together, they delivered 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, while maintaining an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency rating of up to 31 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway.

The Turbo Option

While the standard engine options in the Forte offered high-end efficiency throughout its production run, drivers who crave performance can find a model with a turbocharged powerplant beginning with the second generation.

Drivers who want an affordable pre-owned sedan with serious performance beneath the hood can opt for Forte models equipped with the 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four. Available in third-generation GT and GT-Manual trim levels, it provides a decisive boost in power, providing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine is also available with either a six-speed manual transmission that provides responsiveness and increased control, or an innovative dual-clutch automatic gearbox that delivers faster shifting and smoother acceleration.

Spacious, Well-Appointed Cabin

Those who take a pre-owned Forte for a test drive will immediately notice that the interior can range from practical to plush depending on the trim level, with a wide variety of seat surfaces, trim materials, and features available depending on the generation, model year, and trim level.

Regardless of the model or trim level chosen, the Forte offers a spacious cabin loaded with amenities. Third-generation models boast up to 96 cubic feet of passenger volume and 15.3 cubic feet of cargo volume combined. The cabin is easy to reconfigure when additional cargo capacity is needed, since the 60/40 split-bench in the rear folds down for carrying longer loads that exceed the dedicated 15.3 cubic feet of trunk space.

While some drivers prefer the practical comfort and easy maintenance of the standard materials and equipment, the Forte’s upper trim levels offer advanced comfort and luxury that make the Forte even more appealing. For example, the 2024 Forte GT-Line trim level features dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, and heated sport seats with amazing leatherette seating surfaces.

High-End Tech Packages

Drivers who enjoy an elevated infotainment and connectivity experience can look to the third-gen Forte for tech that holds up well despite being a few years old. One nice aspect of using slightly older tech is that you’re getting a more finished product that has had time to undergo needed software updates and real-world testing with actual drivers.

While much of the standard technology in third-gen Fortes is comparable to other vehicles in its class, the optional upgraded tech in upper trim levels holds up well and provides top-notch performance. The standard equipment in the 2024 base trim LX included an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 4.25-inch instrument display, and a six-speaker audio system.

While the 2024 Forte includes an eight-inch touchscreen as standard equipment, there is a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen display with built-in navigation available in the GT-Line trim that offers improved, more intuitive access for drivers. Drivers who prioritize high-quality sound can look for Forte models equipped with the optional Harman Kardon Premium Audio system, which provides powerful, crystal-clear sound that enhances the driving experience. There’s even a wireless charging capability available, and many Fortes feature wireless device integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Clever Convenience and Drive Assistance Features

Not only do late-model pre-owned Fortes offer drivers excellent infotainment and connectivity features, but they also include clever convenience amenities and driver assistance systems that would normally only be found in more expensive sedans. Third-gen Forte models come with a robust list of standard convenience and driver assistance features, but upper trims offer even more value and additional premium equipment.

Convenience Features

The Forte is known for providing standard comfort and convenience features that are considered optional equipment in competing sedans. For example, most Forte models incorporate keyless entry, a standard rearview camera, and Dynamic Parking Guidance for easy parking in tight spaces. There are also rear seat air vents that provide comprehensive comfort and USB ports throughout the front and rear rows to provide simple device charging for both driver and passengers.

However, the third-generation Forte GT-Line includes amenities like a Smart key with a remote start feature that also allows you to pre-cool your vehicle on hot summer days for enhanced comfort when you get behind the wheel. The Smart key can also function as a proximity key that allows for push-button starting, and with it, the optional Smart Trunk opens automatically for easy access. There’s also voice-command navigation, so you’ll never have to take your hands off the wheel to get directions.

Driver Assistance Systems

The Forte also includes the standard Kia Drive Wise technology, which is a suite of top-tier driver assistance features intended to help drivers stay focused and engaged while avoiding the most common causes of collisions. The suite of systems includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, pedestrian detection, a Driver Attention Warning, and Lane Keeping Assist.

Upper trims add even more features to an already comprehensive package of driver assistance amenities, including available systems such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go.

The Forte Is Loaded With Features Drivers Love

Despite it being discontinued, the Kia Forte remains a viable option for drivers seeking a reliable, efficient, and well-appointed sedan that is perfect for commuting and urban driving. It includes standard features that are considered optional equipment in other vehicles in its class, and used models continue to offer the perfect blend of fuel efficiency and turbocharged power, depending on the powertrain you find. Its value-conscious price point and low cost of operation make it ideal for commuting, and it has the smooth ride and luxury amenities to make a comfortable highway sedan as well.

If you’re in the market for a quality pre-owned sedan that offers an exciting driving experience, high-level efficiency, and high-quality tech and convenience features, look no further than a pre-owned Kia Forte.