2021 Kia Forte

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$17,890

starting MSRP

2021 Kia Forte
2021 Kia Forte

Key specs

Base trim shown

Sedan

Body style

31

Combined MPG

5

Seating capacity

182.7” x 56.5”

Dimensions

Front-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

The good:

  • Interior design and materials
  • 8-inch touchscreen standard
  • Drama-free controls
  • Standard safety features
  • Overall value

The bad:

  • Roofline limits headroom
  • Small door openings
  • Trunk space
  • Difficult-to-access lower Latch anchors for car seats
  • No hatchback version

5 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2021 Kia Forte trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best Sedans for 2023

Notable features

  • Five-seat compact sedan
  • Manual or automatic transmission
  • Android Auto, Apple CarPlay standard
  • Automatic emergency braking standard
  • 201-hp turbocharged GT trim available
See also: How Do Car Seats Fit in a 2021 Kia Forte?

2021 Kia Forte review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2021 Kia Forte?

The five-seat Kia Forte compact sedan competes with models like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla. Most trim levels are powered by a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a six-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission. A 201-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder powers the GT trim, teaming with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or the manual transmission. 

What’s New on the 2021 Kia Forte?

Manual transmission-equipped GT trim level cars now come with Michelin Pilot Sport summer tires, and the top-of-the-line EX trim gains navigation, a Harman Kardon premium stereo, a power sunroof, wireless device charging and telematics services. 

What Features in the 2021 Kia Forte Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • Cloth upholstery
  • Air conditioning
  • Variable-intermittent windshield wipers
  • Cruise control
  • 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Android Auto, Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane keep assist

Available features include:

  • Simulated leather upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Push-button start
  • Blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert
  • Adaptive cruise control

Should I Buy the 2021 Kia Forte?

The Forte offers a lot of standard tech features for the money, and the interior quality of this generation has improved. Compact hatchback fans will need to look elsewhere, but if you want a value-oriented compact sedan, the Forte is worth a look.

Consumer reviews

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.8
  • Interior design 4.8
  • Performance 4.7
  • Value for the money 4.7
  • Exterior styling 4.9
  • Reliability 4.8

Most recent consumer reviews

5.0

very good very comfortable and very impressive sup

I own a very nice car, I like it very much, the handling is great I would recommend it to everyone good price performance good

5.0

A very nice car all around.

I love this car. It looks great. All the tech and safety features are through the roof cool. So far it has been super reliable. This is my first car that is not American made and I love it.

5.0

Love my 2021 Kia forte. Love it all the way around

I’ve had my Kia for 20 months, am leasing the car. I like that it’s got a sporty look, rides smooth and has lots of great features! Hope to keep or get another one somewhere down the line.

See all 51 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by Kia
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
60 months/60,000 miles
Corrosion
60 months/100,000 miles
Powertrain
120 months/100,000 miles
Roadside assistance
60 months/60,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
6 years or newer/less than 80,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
12 months/12,000 miles
Powertrain
10 years/100,000 miles
Dealer certification required
165-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

Compare the competitors

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