One of many only a few remaining small sedans on the US market is coming into the 2023 mannequin yr, although it doesn’t carry upgrades over the 2022 mannequin. Regardless of the dearth of any essential novelties, the 2023 Kia Forte is barely dearer in all trim ranges. Extra on that later, however let’s see what the entry-level South Korean sedan affords first.
The automaker refreshed the Forte final yr with a extra pronounced entrance fascia with a contemporary new tackle the corporate’s “tiger nostril” company grille. Different visible tweaks included a sportier-looking entrance bumper with three-point LED fog lights organized diagonally within the GT trim stage, additionally accessible for the GT-Line grade with completely different LED taillights. New 16- and 17-inch wheels complemented the visible enhancements over the pre-facelift mannequin.
25 Images
For the 2023 mannequin yr, the Forte continues to be accessible in 4 trim ranges – FE, LXS, GT-Line, and GT – the identical as final yr. The adjustments within the lineup embrace the discontinuation of the GT Know-how Package deal, in addition to the addition of the FCA Fusion security pack to the GT mannequin with a dual-clutch automated gearbox. Moreover, all LX, LXS, and GT-Line fashions geared up with the two.0-liter engine are actually SULEV30 compliant.
Talking of the powertrains, the 2023 Forte doesn’t see any adjustments within the engine vary and continues to be accessible with both an ordinary naturally aspirated 2.0-liter unit or a turbocharged 1.6-liter mill. The bottom engine has an output of 147 horsepower (110 kilowatts) and 132 pound-feet (179 Newton-meters) of torque, whereas the 1.6 – accessible on the GT fashions – delivers 201 hp (150 kW) and 195 lb-ft (265 Nm). If you happen to go for the sportier mannequin, you’ll be able to order it with both a handbook gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch automated.
The entry-level 2023 Forte LX kicks off at $19,490 (excluding $1,095 vacation spot) or $400 greater than the 2022 Forte LX. The range-topping GT fashions begin from $24,190 (DCT) and $24,890 (MT). Someplace in between, the LXS prices no less than $19,990, and the center youngster GT-Line will set you again no less than $21,690.
