The Kia Forte receives a thorough redesign for 2019. This means that the current Forte belongs to the third generation of this car, which debuted in 2010. The tiny, four-door Kia Forte was initially intended to younger customers. Although the Forte has advanced to become much more with this most recent incarnation, it is still a fantastic affordable car. It is currently a great option for a car for almost everybody. The Forte combines tremendous performance, elegant appearance, and a smooth ride.
There are four different trim levels for the 2019 Kia Forte. These all share a single power source. The Forte comes with a 2.0-liter I-4 engine from Kia. This engine produces roughly 147 horsepower. All models have more than enough acceleration. A 6-speed manual transmission or Kia’s IVT with overdrive and auto-manual shifting is combined with the engine. The trim level you select will determine the transmission system you receive.
The Kia Forte has a fantastic fuel efficiency rating at every model level, which is one of its best features. A combined rating of 31 to 34 mpg is what you can expect. This car is affordable to begin with, and the cost of fuel won’t break the bank either. There are wonderful amenities for comfort, convenience, and safety in every trim. The four trim levels naturally advance from one another. Nothing ever goes to waste for you. The characteristics of the previous trim remain unless you upgrade.
It can be difficult to choose the Kia Forte that’s suitable for you with four trim packages and practically unlimited options. We’ll examine the features that each trim has to offer. The following trim package and the prior choice will be compared with each succeeding trim package.
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Compare the 2019 Kia Forte FE vs LXS Trim Levels. What is the difference?
The 2019 Kia Forte FE is the entry-level model. The 6-speed manual transmission mechanism with overdrive is exclusive to this model. The LXS is the following trim level up. IVT from Kia is installed. But this transmission can be added as an option to the FE. Intelligent Variable Transmission is referred to as IVT. It was created to address some of the drawbacks of conventional CVT systems prevalent in other cars. If necessary, you can manually change gears while using the IVT.
Only three colorsAurora Black, Gravity Gray, and Clear Whiteare offered for the FE model. You have these options as well as three more with the LXS. These are Silky Silver, Deep Sea Blue, and Currant Red. Compared to the FE, the LXS offers marginally superior fuel efficiency figures. It has a combined fuel economy of 40 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in the city. The FE has an estimated 27 city mpg and 37 highway mpg.
All higher levels and both of these trim levels are only offered with front-wheel drive. The LXS has a set of 16″ alloy wheels, whereas the FE has 15″ steel wheels. Daytime running lights, solar-control glass, and body-colored door handles are included on the outside of the FE. On the base model, Kia also features a locking fuel door. Chromed exhaust tips and black bumper accents are features added to the LXS model.
The FE’s infotainment system boasts an 8″ touchscreen, which brings us to the cabin. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported by the system. Four speakers and an FM/AM stereo with an MP3 or MP4 player input are provided by the sound system. Bluetooth technology can be used to link gadgets as well. For your convenience and safety, the audio system features controls positioned on the steering wheel. The infotainment and audio systems are identical in the LXS.
Both the FE and LXS seats have woven fabric upholstery. Driver and passenger seats can be adjusted in six different ways. Both trims come equipped with driver aids like front collision assistance. A front collision warning is also there to alert you to impending danger. You won’t fall asleep on long drives thanks to a driver-attention warning. A lane-keeping aid makes minor modifications to prevent you from crossing the line too much.
The safety features in both of these trim levels are the same. For the driver and front passenger, there are two mounted front airbags and two mounted side airbags. Kia also equips the entire cabin with side curtain airbags. A traction control system ensures that the necessary wheels receive power. The car maintains stability thanks to electronic stability control. Brake assistance provides very small modifications to help you stop quickly.
Rear child safety locks prevent little children from unintentionally opening the doors. Inside the trunk is a release that can be used in an emergency. In the unfortunate event of a collision, the front and rear crumple zones, as well as the door beams, offer some protection. Additionally, the steering column features an impact-absorbing construction. Some of the more noticeable safety features are tire pressure monitoring technology and ABS disc brakes.
Compare the 2019 Forte LXS vs S Trims. What is the difference?
The LXS’s engine and transmission system are also included in the S trim level. The identical six hues are also offered. The fuel efficiency statistics are the same for both trim levels, which both seat five passengers. The performance of both versions is essentially the same. You receive an engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. In comparison to the 16″ wheels on the LXS, the S trim comes with larger, 17″ alloy wheels.
A lot of exterior features not found on a basic LXS are included with the S trim. On the S trim, you get front fog lamps. Superior LED models are upgraded for the headlights and taillights. A sunroof, high-beam assistance, and a headlight leveling system are among the other choices you receive. The S model is equipped with all of the same safety features as the first two trim levels as standard equipment.
The S trim package upgrades the Kia Forte’s interior by adding electric windows with a one-touch up-and-down feature. A rear arm rest, additional cup holders, and small-space storage are also included. The seats are upgraded to luxurious tricot fabric. For the S model, leather is wrapped around the gearshift and steering wheel. The infotainment system now includes Sirius XM satellite radio and voice recognition. With this trim, the speaker system also receives a second set of tweeters.
Compare the Forte S vs EX Trim Levels. What is the difference?
The top-tier trim level for the 2019 Kia Forte has now reached. Except where an upgrade is made, the EX includes all of the same features as the prior trims. The engine and transmission are the exact same as before. Every safety feature has been retained as well. On higher trims, Kia might add additional driving-assist technology, but all of the vehicles’ safety features remain the same.
Two of the six color options that were offered for the LXS and S models are not available on the EX trim. Deep Sea Blue and Silky Silver are these. With the addition of Fire Orange, Kia now offers five different color options. You receive LED turn-signal indicators on the outside of the EX trim, on the mirrors. There is also heating in the outside mirrors. There is also perimeter approach lighting present.
On chilly winter days, a de-icer for the windshield wipers on the EX trim rapidly gets your wipers ready to go. The inside of the EX trim features the same audio and infotainment systems as the S trim. However, there is also the choice to upgrade to premium systems, which are not accessible on earlier trims. For a nominal additional fee, a navigation system is addable. A 320-watt, high-quality sound system is also available from Harmon Kardon. There are eight speakers in this system, as well as a subwoofer.
You get a couple more driving aids with the EX trim. A blind-spot collision warning is included here. A caution for cross traffic in the rear is also present. You also receive a premium lane-change help towards the end. You can also choose from additional accessories like a wireless phone charger and a driver information screen.
For the EX model, the center console now features a movable armrest. Dual-zone climate control is included in both grades, but the EX also includes additional vents for the backseat. The EX trim’s upholstery receives yet another improvement. You get two-tone leatherette seats this time. A pair of 10-way adjustable chairs are used in place of the previous 6-way models. For greater comfort, the front seats are now heated and ventilated. For added safety, rear headrests are also adjustable.
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Which Trim Level to Choose?
It’s uncommon to propose the highest trim package for the typical consumer when proposing the best option for a trim level. But the EX trim level for the 2019 Kia Forte offers the best value overall. Each of the Kia Forte’s trim packages has only a slight price increase. A lot of distinctive and practical features are also added at every level. There’s almost no need to accept anything less when the EX trim package offers you so much for such a modest price difference.
What distinguishes the Kia Forte LX and LXS?
Drive mode choose is standard on the 2020 Kia Forte LXS, while it’s an option on the FE model. The FE offers up to 31 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway, while the LXS has a maximum of 29 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. This is the main distinction between these two models.
What distinguishes the Kia Forte GT from the Lxs version?
While other manufacturers appear to be giving up on the sedan market, Kia is still committed to the Forte. It is a modern, beautiful vehicle that is also surprisingly useful. Additionally, as we approach 2021, Kia keeps packing the Forte with technologies that you might typically associate with expensive cars.
The Forte’s affordability is one of its main draws. This choice enables buyers to obtain an economical vehicle without compromising on desired features. It has provided a GT model ever since its facelift in 2019 that even appeases thrill-seekers.
Compare the 2021 Kia Forte FE vs Forte LXS Trim Levels. What is the Difference?
There are two different engine choices for the 2021 Forte, which is the first thing you should be aware of. The 2.0L four-cylinder engine for the FE, like the rest of the series, is capable of producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The only model featuring a six-speed manual transmission as standard is the entry-level FE. There is also a continuously variable transmission option.
There are only three paint options available to those that pick the FE. They are Clear White, Gravity Gray, and Aurora Black. This model’s exterior is rather plain and uncomplicated. It boasts 15-inch steel wheels, solar-control glass, body-colored side mirrors, and door handles.
The FE is illuminated by daylight running lights. Projector-beam headlights are included, as well as automated headlight control for enhanced convenience. For the FE, there are no external improvements available.
When you get inside the FE, you’ll notice woven fabric seat detailing and manually adjustable front seats. Single-zone climate control with manual adjustments is also available. Despite having power door locks and remote keyless entry, there aren’t many convenience and comfort amenities overall.
The entry-level 2021 Forte has more promising technological features. It sports an 8-inch touch screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. Also featured is Bluetooth wireless technology. Four speakers are included in the sound system as standard. To help you keep charged while driving, you also get two 12V outlets and a USB/auxiliary connection.
The FE has a respectable list of driver aids. In addition to a front collision warning, this model incorporates a driver attentiveness monitor. The list of standard features also included lane departure warning and lane-keep assistance. A tire pressure monitoring system and hill start control aid complete the rather advanced safety features. Naturally, a rearview camera is included as well.
Whether they like it or not, buyers who choose to upgrade to the LXS trim will come standard with the continuously variable gearbox. Under the hood, the LXS and FE both have the identical machinery. For a sportier appearance, the model does upgrade to 16-inch alloy wheels.
The LXS has two times as many exterior paint color choices. This trim is now available in Currant Red, Silky Silver, and Deep Sea Blue in addition to the muted options for the FE. The LXS also flaunts chrome exhaust tips and black gloss bumper embellishments.
Driver-selectable modes are standard on the LXS’s interior. For the FE, this was an optional feature. Unfortunately, the base model does not include the 60/40 split-folding capability for the back seat. The soft-touch top door panels are the final major cabin improvement.
There are no changes to the safety features. The LXS, which costs about $1,500 more than the FE, has fewer enhancements than the FE.
Compare the 2021 Kia Forte LXS vs Forte GT-Line Trim. What is the Difference?
The 2021 Forte GT-Line is intended to have a little sportier appearance than existing Forte versions. When it comes to performance and power, it is not more athletic. The 17-inch alloy wheels with a graphite finish contribute to the GT-more Line’s assertive appearance.
Currant Red or Silky Silver versions of this trim are unavailable. However, it does provide Fire Orange as a special GT-Line-only option. It also receives a gloss black rear spoiler on the trunk lid, sport side sills, and a sport grille. The body-colored side mirrors are swapped out with heated black ones in the GT-Line.
This trim has undergone a decent amount of lighting improvement. For instance, LED turn signal indicators are added to the side mirrors. Additionally, it has LED taillights and daytime running lights. This is the first Forte 2021 option to include fog lights.
The “smart trunk” that the GT-Line offers according to Kia is a convenience feature. The trunk will open automatically if you approach it from behind while holding your smart key. With this specification, a power sunroof is an option. This variant increases the number of speakers from four to six.
Drivers and front passengers in the GT-Line receive sport seats with faux leather and fabric trim. The only trim on these chairs with white stitching is this one. White stitching can be seen on the steering wheel’s flat bottom as well. The Forte GT-Line receives a leather-wrapped shifter knob as the last standard interior improvement from Kia.
The quantity of driving aids is the main difference between the LXS and GT-Line. This particular model includes lane-change assistance, a blind-spot monitor, and a rear cross-traffic warning. Customers will surely choose the GT-Line because of these added amenities and the more attractive styling.
Compare the 2021 Kia Forte GT-Line vs Forte EX Trim Level. What is the Difference?
Kia switches from a sporty design to a more upscale one for the EX grade level. With the exception of Silky Silver, it comes in the same colors as the LXS and retains the same performance features. The EX rides on 17-inch wheels, much like the GT-Line does. The distinction is that the higher trim matches a machine finish as opposed to a graphite one.
You can distinguish between the EX and other choices thanks to subtle exterior variations. It does not have the sport side sills or grille, but it does have chrome window molding. The side mirrors return to their original body color while keeping the heat and integrated turn signals that the GT-Line introduced. The power sunroof is the first trim level to be included as standard equipment. The EX receives a space-saving spare tire instead of the “tire mobility kit” that comes with the lower models.
Two significant improvements inside the Forte EX are the dual-zone automatic climate control and the rear air vents. Along with LED inside lighting, it also has a lit glove box. Sport seats and accent stitching are gone, but the faux leather trim is still present.
Both front seats are heated and ventilated, and the driver has 10-way power adjustment. Here, the leather-wrapped shifter knob is joined by a steering wheel. The headrests on the seats in the backseat are adjustable.
New technological advancements are made. The EX now boasts an improved infotainment system that includes voice recognition, HD radio, satellite radio, and an 8-inch touchscreen as standard equipment. The only trim that gives the touchscreen color is this one. Standard stereo equipment includes a 10-speaker Harman Kardon system. For the GT-Line, both of these enhancements are optional.
Kia goes further than that. In the center console of the EX trim, there are two more USB charging ports in addition to a wireless charging pad. The EX has no additional driver assistance features. Although it costs about $2,500 more than the model that came before it, the 2021 Forte now has a lot more luxury.