by Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Kia Forte GT is not your average compact sedan. It’s a sporty, value-packed option that brings excitement to the everyday drive. With a turbocharged engine, sharp styling, and a feature-rich interior, it stands out in the crowded compact car market. Whether you’re after performance, affordability, or modern tech, the Kia Forte GT hp has something to offer. In this article, we’ll dive into the Kia Forte GT specs, performance, pricing, and more to see why it’s a top choice for 2025.
Overview of the Kia Forte GT
A Brief History
The Kia Forte has been a staple in Kia’s lineup since 2008, offering inexpensive and reliable transportation. The 2025 Kia Forte GT marks the pinnacle of the third-generation Forte, introduced in 2019 and refreshed in 2022. While the standard Forte focuses on efficiency, the GT trim adds a sporty edge with a turbo engine and upgraded features.
Where It Fits in Kia’s Lineup
The Forte GT sits between the entry-level Kia Rio and the midsize K5 sedan. It’s the sportiest version of the Forte, created for drivers who want more power and style without stepping up to a pricier model. The GT competes with sporty compact sedans like the Honda Civic Si and Hyundai Elantra N-Line, offering a balance of performance and valu
Engine, Performance & Transmission
Power Under the Hood
The Kia Forte GT performance is driven by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers:
- 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm
- 195 lb-ft of torque at 1,500-4,500 rpm
This engine provides a noticeable boost over the base Forte’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which produces just 147 horsepower. The turbocharged power makes the GT feel lively and responsive.
Transmission Choices
Buyers can choose between two transmissions:
- Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT): Smooth and quick-shifting, ideal for daily driving.
- Six-speed manual: A rare treat for enthusiasts, offering engaging control but less common.
The DCT is the more popular option, but the manual adds a fun, hands-on experience.
Real-World Performance
The Kia Forte GT’s top speed is estimated at around 135 mph, with a kia forte gt 0-60 mph sprint of 6.4 seconds for the DCT model (the manual is slightly slower at 6.8 seconds). A sport-tuned suspension, larger front brakes, and available summer tires enhance handling. The Kia Forte GT-Line feels planted in corners, though it’s not as sharp as a true performance car like the Civic Type R. The ride is firm but not harsh, making it suitable for both spirited drives and commutes.
Driving Impressions
- Acceleration: Punchy low-end torque makes merging and passing effortless.
- Handling: Responsive steering and minimal body lean in turns.
- Ride Quality: Sporty but comfortable enough for daily use.
Design and Exterior Styling
Sporty Looks That Turn Heads
The 2024 kia forte gt boasts a bold, aggressive design. Its fastback-inspired silhouette, sharp creases, and sleek grille give it a premium look. The GT stands out with:
- 18-inch alloy wheels: Add a sporty stance.
- Unique front fascia: Features a tiger-nose grille with red accents.
- LED headlights: Provide sharp illumination and a modern aesthetic.
- Dual exhaust tips: Enhance the sporty vibe.
Trim-Specific Details
The GT trim includes exclusive touches like a rear spoiler and blacked-out trim. These elements make it feel more upscale than its price suggests.
Color Options
The 2025 Forte GT offers vibrant choices:
- Currant Red
- Snow White Pearl
- Aurora Black
- Steel Gray
- Sporty Blue (discontinued for 2024 but may return)
Exterior Features
- LED taillights: Sleek and energy-efficient.
- Power side mirrors: Heated for cold weather.
- Available sunroof: Adds a premium touch.
Interior, Comfort & Technology
Cabin Quality
The Kia Forte GT interior feels upscale for its class. Soft-touch materials and metallic accents elevate the cabin, though some hard plastics remain. The layout is driver-focused, with controls that are easy to reach.
Seating and Space
The 2023 kia forte gt seats five, with ample front legroom (42.2 inches) and decent rear legroom (35.7 inches). Rear width is tight for three adults, but two will ride comfortably. The sport bucket seats with red stitching offer good support for spirited driving.
Infotainment and Tech
The 2021 kia forte gt comes with a 10.3-inch touchscreen featuring:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- Navigation
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
A 4.2-inch digital gauge cluster displays key info, and an optional eight-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system delivers crisp sound.
Convenience Features
- Heated and ventilated front seats: Rare in this class.
- Wireless charging pad: Keeps devices powered.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control: Standard on GT.
Interior Features Comparison Table
| Feature | Forte LX | Forte LXS | Forte GT-Line | Forte GT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Size | 8.0″ | 8.0″ | 10.3″ | 10.3″ |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Wireless | Wireless | Wired | Wired |
| Audio System | 4-speaker | 6-speaker | 6-speaker | 8-speaker |
| Heated/Ventilated Seats | No | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | No | Optional | Optional | Standard |
Safety Features & Ratings
Standard Safety Systems
The Kia Forte GT features a robust suite of safety tech, including:
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Driver attention warning
- Rearview camera
Advanced Safety Tech
The GT trim adds:
- Pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Navigation-based adaptive cruise control: Adjusts speed for curves.
- Highway Driving Assist: Combines lane-centering and adaptive cruise.
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
Crash Test Results
The Forte earns mixed safety ratings:
- NHTSA: Four stars overall, with three stars for front passenger protection.
- IIHS: “Good” in most tests but “Poor” in updated side and moderate front overlap tests.
While the Forte GT is safe, competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla score higher in some crash tests.
Kia Forte GT Fuel Economy
MPG Ratings
The Kia Forte GT fuel economy varies by transmission:
- DCT Automatic: 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, 30 mpg combined
- Manual: 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 26 mpg combined
The base Forte LX achieves up to 41 mpg highway, making the GT less efficient but still competitive for a sporty sedan. It uses regular unleaded fuel, keeping costs low.
Real-World Feedback
Owners report combined mileage around 28-30 mpg with the DCT, with highway trips reaching the mid-30s. The manual transmission’s lower efficiency is a trade-off for its engaging drive.
Kia Forte GT Pricing and Trims
MSRP Breakdown
The Kia Forte GT price starts at approximately $25,690 for the DCT model, with the manual slightly cheaper at $24,390. Here’s how it compares to other trims:
- Forte LX: $21,145
- Forte LXS: $21,645
- Forte GT-Line: $22,490
Optional Packages
- GT Premium Package: Adds a sunroof, Harman/Kardon audio, and power driver’s seat for about $2,000.
- Technology Package: Includes advanced safety features (standard on GT for 2024).
Value for Money
The Forte GT undercuts rivals like the Honda Civic Si ($29,100) and VW Jetta GLI ($28,850) while offering comparable features and performance. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty adds peace of mind.
Trim Comparison Table
| Trim | Starting Price | Engine | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | $21,145 | 2.0L 147 hp | 8″ touchscreen, basic safety tech |
| LXS | $21,645 | 2.0L 147 hp | Alloy wheels, split-folding rear seats |
| GT-Line | $22,490 | 2.0L 147 hp | 10.3″ touchscreen, sporty styling |
| GT | $24,390 | 1.6L Turbo 201 hp | Sport suspension, dual exhaust, premium audio |
Kia Forte GT vs Competitors
The Kia Forte GT vs competitors like the Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Elantra N-Line, and VW Jetta GLI is a close race. Here’s how they stack up:
Comparison Table
| Feature | Kia Forte GT | Honda Civic Si | Hyundai Elantra N-Line | VW Jetta GLI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | $25,690 | $29,100 | $27,400 | $28,850 |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 200 hp | 201 hp | 228 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec (DCT) | 6.8 sec | 6.9 sec | 6.1 sec |
| Fuel Economy | 27/35 mpg (DCT) | 27/37 mpg | 28/36 mpg | 26/36 mpg |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or DCT | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual or DCT | 6-speed manual or DCT |
| Warranty | 10 yr/100,000 mi | 5 yr/60,000 mi | 10 yr/100,000 mi | 4 yr/50,000 mi |
Key Observations
- Kia Forte GT: Best value, strong warranty, and balanced performance. Lacks the driving polish of the Civic Si.
- Honda Civic Si: Sharper handling and a refined manual transmission. Higher price and fewer standard features.
- Hyundai Elantra N-Line: Similar to the Forte GT but with a slightly smoother ride. Less distinctive styling.
- VW Jetta GLI: Most powerful but pricier and less fuel-efficient. Premium interior.
The Kia Forte GT for sale is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want sporty performance without breaking the bank.
Owner Reviews and Reliability
What Owners Say
The Kia Forte GT reliability is well-regarded, with a 4.5/5 rating from RepairPal and a 5/5 from Cars.com consumer reviews. Owners praise:
- Performance: The turbo engine and DCT are highlights for spirited drivers.
- Value: Loaded with features for the price.
- Comfort: Quiet cabin and supportive seats.
Common Complaints:
- Some note a stiff ride over rough roads.
- Interior plastics feel cheap compared to the Mazda 3.
- Manual transmission buyers dislike the fuel economy penalty.
Long-Term Expectations
The Kia forte gt 2022 reliability is above average for compact cars, with an average annual repair cost of $451 (vs. $526 for the class). The long warranty helps offset potential issues, though some owners report minor electrical or climate system quirks.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Affordable price for a sporty sedan
- Powerful turbo engine
- Long warranty
- Feature-rich interior
- Choice of manual or DCT
Cons
- Mixed crash test ratings
- Stiff ride on rough roads
- Rear seat tight for three adults
- Manual transmission hurts fuel economy
Final Verdict: Is the Kia Forte GT Worth It?
The 2025 Kia Forte GT is a compelling choice for drivers seeking a fun, affordable compact sedan. Its turbocharged engine, sporty styling, and generous features make it a standout. While it doesn’t match the driving dynamics of the Honda Civic Si or the power of the VW Jetta GLI, its lower price and class-leading warranty give it an edge.
