2020 Kia Forte Review: Reliable & Safe Compact Car With Low Running Costs

Feb 14, 2023

The 2020 Kia Forte lasts around 250,000 miles with relatively minor paint chipping and wire coating issues. At $16,999 to $23,999, it’s a great value for a compact car with some of the latest safety technology.

The Good

The stereo system offers a lot of great features, the front seats are extremely comfortable and fuel costs are lower than other small cars.

The Bad

The suspension is very firm, the back seats are not as comfortable as some competitors and the base engine is a little weak.

Is the 2020 Kia Forte a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Kia Forte since it has a lot of technology paired with good reliability ratings. Owner reviews praise the sporty handling, nice interior, along with the low fuel costs.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are good for a compact car, the seats are comfortable for longer drives, cargo space is also good in the trunk.
Reliability 8/10 – There are no serious mechanical problems reported on the 2020 Forte. Shoppers should stay away from models from 2010–2015 which have engine problems, while 2016–2021 are much more reliable.
Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from both of the four-cylinder engine options, although it’s not as quick as some of the other small cars on the market.
Safety 8/10 – The 2020 Forte is reasonably safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. There’s a standard rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, along with lane keep assist. Adaptive cruise control as well as pedestrian detection are optional.
Gas Mileage 9/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 35 MPG giving 490 miles of range from the 14 gallon tank. Gas costs are $55 cheaper than average at $131 per month.
Value 8/10 – The 2020 Kia Forte is cheaper than most other compact cars on the market, making it a good value proposition.

Positive Owner Reviews

Bri J

Little red with the black trim.

Just bought the car and so far there has not been any problems as far as performance is a nice smooth ride love the ability to switch to sport mode. Reliability she has not done me wrong yet ( knock on wood) comfort it is very comfortable and the seats are just right. The features are my favorite the vehicle does have a key but it offers apple carplay which comes in handy for those long car rides and is more convenient and practical as far as everyday commuting goes.

Samantha S

Red, fast and good with gas.

It is a brand new car so there’s no problem. Very comfortable and smooth. It is red also have sports drive every detailed inside I think it first both men and women. It have something I would call a safe break if your going a fast speed and not paying attention and about to hit a car it gives you like a shake so you can stop what you're doing.

Madison F

My vehicle is fun, compact and flashy! I get so many compliments on my car.

I absolutely love my 2020 forte, best car I have ever had. I have had quite a few Kia’s and I wouldn't choose anything else to drive. I'll be buying all of my vehicles there from here on out! I'll probably upgrade on my next purchase, but who knows?!

Aditya P

Interior is well laid out and looks much more premium.

No problems till now. Car has all features I wanted. Drives well and has good fuel economy. Wish they offered hybrid option and panoramic sunroof. There is some rattling noise from some trim piece when on rough road and wish highway noise was bit less.

Danielle T

Kia forte 2020 excellent review.

I have had no problems with my car yet. It has great gas mileage. The screen is awesome with a huge back up camera view. The seats are very comfortable, lots of room throughout the vehicle. I love that there are two levers under the driver's seat to open the trunk and gas cap. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

Connor M

Fun, fuel efficient and stylish!

No problems with the vehicle at all, love almost everything about it. 6th gear is too short and I believe I lose a lot of fuel economy on the highway because of it. The places where you would naturally put your elbows as the driver are too hard over long periods of time. My back is not good and the seat lacks lumbar support. Other than those things, I love this car!

Shashank G

Budget compact car with all necessary features.

Comes with all the latest safety features: lane keep assist, lane departure warning, traction control, backup camera. Also comes with an easy to use infotainment system which support apple CarPlay/android auto. The audio sounds pretty good for an OEM system. Excellent mileage: I get ~35 mpg on an average. Drives pretty well. Will not wow you but good enough for daily commute to work.

Sofia D

It connects to apple CarPlay if you have an iPhone which is really cool.

It really has no problems. It drives so smoothly and is a very well-made car. It is super safe too. It is very comfortable and has soft seats inside. The sound inside the car is so powerful. One thing that is not that enjoyable is that the car sometimes breaks for you if it thinks you are close to another car, but I guess that is just for safety.

Negative Owner Reviews

Derek

12,000 miles and problems

In 2020, a rock ended up cracking my windshield. Well, because the windshield had a fixed-in camera and technology, paying for a Safelite person to come and fix it wasnt possible. I had to drive to the Safelite building to have it replaced. I then had to drive back to the dealer to "recalibrate" the camera in the windshield. After that, it was pretty smooth sailing until just about a week ago in early September 2021, my Forte displayed a "check engine" light as I was leaving my house. The entire car started rumbling and shaking whenever I accelerated. I had to turn around, and head home. I turned the car off and on again, which seemed to fix the problem. This meant that it was likely an electrical problem. For a brand new Kia Forte 2020 with 12,000 miles on it. Then, this week, I noticed that the letter "F" on my Forte has fallen off. Must be that Kia quality. And today, my air conditioner completely stopped working. So, I am on a two year lease with a brand new Kia Forte 2020 that has 12,000 miles on it that has electrical problems, expensive and time consuming windshield repairs, cheap build quality with letters falling off, and a broken air conditioner. If those arent red flags, I dont know what are. I will never be doing business with Kia again, despite my general enjoyment driving their vehicles. That means nothing when a brand new car is breaking down 2 years later.

rachel A

2020 Kia forte - not worth the money.

The transmission went out with only 2k miles on it and needed a whole new transmission and it is very loud when driving. Do not care for the collision alert, as it goes off without warning for nothing frequently. I do appreciate the apple car play, it is easy to use and helpful. Spacious and comfortable.

Karina A

Forte vs. Optima. Which one is better?

Not the vehicle I was looking for. Vehicle is nice but it is too small for my liking. I used to have an optima before and it was great with gas and space which is one of the things I miss that the forte does not have. I will definitely be going back to an optima when I finish my lease.

Markease W

2020 Kia forte review.

It is a good car for gas. But the way the car front window is set up it kind of blinds you on the side. Also I do not like the way the steering wheel feel when you use or do not use the lane warnings. It is a cheap made car. But it runs good. I would not recommend buying this car because they do not hold much value. But we will see.

Alyssa M

Wouldn’t go back and buy this car.

Terrible in the snow. Cuts power if it notices any snow on the ground. Too many safety features and alert. Not comfortable at all, the cloth seats are the absolute worst seats out of any car. The heat and air is decent. The car is cheaply made but it is reliable.

Jacob W

Great all around reliable car.

I haven't had any problems with my 2020 Kia forte. It has been a reliable car that has exceeded my expectations. It drives smooth and is very comfortable. It is big enough to have my dogs in the car and there is plenty of trunk space for travel. I would totally recommend this car to someone who wants a cheap reliable car. Kia does a great job with their customer service and is always there to assist you with your needs. The dash panel is very nice and easy to use, as well as lane assist and lane changing sensors, backup camera, and many more things I could talk about.

Naeyra G

Kia forte: a new driver's car.

My car is a safe vehicle for new drivers. It is very compact which helps with parking. The car can fit in almost all parking spots very easily. My Kia is not very fast. This might be a problem for those who like fast cars. My car also has lane assist which is helpful.

Pedro T

Great car overall get you one.

I haven't had any problems with my vehicle. Gas mileage is great and it drives really well. The features are pretty basic as it is a base model. Overall it is a very reliable vehicle with great gas mileage and good options. I hope this helps anyone who is considering this vehicle.

What Do Critics Say About the Kia Forte?

Consumer Reports says the 2020 Kia Forte offers a lot of technology for a compact budget-friendly car with average owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Forte at 4.4/5, praising the very efficient engine choices, but doesn’t like the overly-firm suspension.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Forte a 4/5, enjoying the passenger room for a compact sedan, but owners don’t like the relatively cheap dash.

What Common Problems Does the 2020 Kia Forte Have?

Common problems found on the 2020 Kia Forte include windshield wipers chipping paint, rodents eating soy-based wiring, along with a rare report of a transmission failure. Overall, most of these problems are relatively minor, leading to average repair costs as the Forte ages.

The windshield wipers chipping paint is the most common complaint from owners in the first 5,000 miles. Owners have found that when you lift the wipers to clean or change the blades, they smack against the hood, chipping the paint. The best way to fix this is to run your wipers and stop them mid-swipe so that they are in a position which does not damage the hood.

Rodents eating soy-based wiring is another issue reported by some 2020 Forte owners in the first 10,000 miles. Many modern cars use a soy-based wire coating to help reduce the amount of plastic waste, unfortunately it attracts pests looking for food. Installing an under-hood strobe light can help deter rodents if you have to park outdoors.

There’s also a rare report of a transmission failure from owners at around 15,000 miles. One of the synchro-rings simply failed in the transmission, leading to a failure. Kia will replace the transmission for free in the 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. If you’re out of warranty then it may cost around $3,500 to change.

There are no recalls on the 2020 Kia Forte, which is better than many other compact cars on the market. None of the issues with the 2020 Forte have been severe or widespread enough for Kia to feel the need to issue a recall.

How Long Will the 2020 Kia Forte Last?

A well-maintained 2020 Kia Forte can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other small cars, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $350 per year.

As a used 2020 Kia Forte reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the radiator fan motor for $375, windshield washer fluid reservoir costing $225, along with the heater hose which costs $300.

Cindy R

Yes it a really reliable car. It actually the most reliable car I have ever had. I a really good car for my family.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is great for a compact car in the 2020 Kia Forte with a standard 8-inch touchscreen stereo system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available upgrades include a more powerful stereo system.

Standard safety technology is excellent for the Forte’s price, offering standard features including:

Rearview camera
Forward collision warning
Lane departure warning
Driver drowsiness monitoring
Automatic emergency braking
Lane keeping assist

Available advanced safety features include:

Blind spot monitoring
Rear parking sensors
Adaptive cruise control
Rear cross traffic alert
Pedestrian detection

Is the 2020 Kia Forte a Good Value?

Yes, the 2020 Kia Forte is a good value since it’s cheaper than many other small cars on the market while still being reliable. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $16,999 to $23,999, making it less than a Honda Civic or Subaru WRX. When new, the price range was $17,890 to $23,090. Depreciation is similar to other small cars, losing about 5% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Kia Forte?

There are five different models of the 2020 Kia Forte available from the base FE model, all the way up to the more performance-oriented Forte GT. The Forte comes standard with front-wheel drive across all models.

FE is the entry-level model with:

15-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seats
Automatic Headlights
Height-Adjustable Front Seats
8-Inch Touchscreen With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Four-Speaker Audio System
Rearview Camera

LXS is a step up, adding:

16-Inch Alloy Wheels
Selectable Drive Modes
60/40-Split Folding Rear Seat
Soft-Touch Dash and Door Materials

GT-Line falls in the middle of the pack with:

17-Inch Wheels
Black Exterior Accents
Rear Spoiler
Heated Mirrors
Keyless Entry and Ignition
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Six-Speaker Audio System
Simulated Leather Side Bolsters

EX adds features such as:

Unique 17-Inch Wheels
Simulated Leather Upholstery
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
Rear Air Vents
Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat
Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
Satellite Radio
Eight-Speaker Harman Kardon Stereo

GT is the flagship model which has:

Optional Turbocharged Engine
18-Inch Wheels
Fully Independent Rear Sport Tuned Suspension
Larger Front Brakes
Dual Exhaust Pipes
LED Headlights
Ambient Interior Lighting

147 HP 35 MPG

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LXS

147 HP 33 MPG

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GT-Line

147 HP 33 MPG

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147 HP 33 MPG

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201 HP 30 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Kia Forte?

The base engine is an average 2.0L 4-cylinder which makes 147 horsepower at up to 35 MPG. It offers a standard six-speed manual transmission or an available continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
There’s an available upgrade which is a stronger 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder which produces 201 horsepower while getting up to 30 MPG. It has either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Performance is good, taking 6.7 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Kia Forte Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Kia Forte?

The 2020 Kia Forte offers a comfortable interior with supportive front seats and a spacious cabin. The base LX model comes with a 6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, while higher trims have an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with 2-way lumbar support.

Rear-seat legroom is generous for a compact car. Overall, the 2020 Kia Forte offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior for its class.

How Much Storage Space Does the Kia Forte Have?

The 2020 Kia Forte is a compact car with an average trunk which has 14.9 cubic feet of room. This provides ample storage space for everyday items such as groceries, luggage, and personal belongings. The trunk has a wide opening and low lift-over height for easy access and loading. The rear seats can also be folded down to increase the available cargo space.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The third generation of the Kia Forte was introduced for the 2019 model year.

2015: More efficient engine choices added, Uvo telematics system removed from the EX.

2016: LX model introduced as a hatchback or sedan.

2017: Small front-end styling changes, new suspension on the S model, adaptive xenon headlights offered, upgraded 2.0L engine.

2018: No major changes.

2019: Fully redesigned with all-new technology, engines, and exterior styling.

2020: New GT & GT Line models replace the outgoing S model.

2021: High performance tires added to the GT models with a manual transmission.

How Does the Kia Forte Compare to the Competition?

The 2020 Kia Forte is a very nice compact car offering a great warranty paired with a lot of the latest safety technology which helps it stand out compared to some of the other options on the market.

The Hyundai Elantra is another small sedan available for around $1,000 more. The Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra are both built on the same platform and share the same engines. Where the Hyundai Elantra stands out is with a more upscale interior. We recommend the Hyundai Elantra since it’s slightly nicer, although if you want to save some money the Kia Forte is essentially the same car.

The Toyota Corolla is another compact car which costs about $2,500 more. Predicted reliability ratings are better in the Toyota Corolla, while the Kia Forte offers more powerful engine choices making it more fun to drive. We recommend the Toyota Corolla since it will last longer, although both are good choices for the 2020 model year.

Ranks #7 Small Cars by Owners

Tie

2020 Volkswagen GTI

Tie

2020 Volkswagen Golf

2020 Kia Forte

4.69

Do Owners Recommend the Kia Forte?

Cindy R

Yes it's really good on gas. It's really spacious and economic. It comfortable and good for kids. I am in love since I got it.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Derek on September 20, 2021

12,000 miles and problems

Mark Taylor on June 28, 2021

Perfect car for me

Wanted something quick, luxuryish, and reliable with a 6 speed manual. The Forte GT is the best car if you want those especially for the price. I simply cannot find any good competition. Anything nicer is substantially more expensive and anything comparable in price is far below it. The manual shifter is nice, notchy but not too notchy. You can disable all traction and stability control. Everything that is usually electric that SHOULD be hydraulic is hydraulic (steering for example). Ride is stiff yet comfortable, seats are fantastic. Handling is phenomenal. The android auto works perfectly and I much prefer it to a dedicated infotainment system, as maps will always be up to date. The exhaust isn't loud, but is nice for a stock car. I love everything about this car. I don't have a single complaint. Everything I've found to complain about has a built in solution. For example, I was disappointed that opening the mirror on the visor doesn't turn the light on, it's on a switch. However, when you turn the light switch on, closing the visor will press the button into the off position again. I didn't like the welcome jingle but you can easily turn it off. Every annoyance is removable. This car is truly wonderful. It will be a future cult classic.

Julia V on June 24, 2021

I want to see you in a Kia!!

The Kia forte is very good on gas. I am only paying half of what I use to. Lots of space for how “little” the car is. The trunk is also huge. The vents for air conditioning and heating are a fancy spin style. You can change many features in this car. CarPlay is a great feature if you have an iPhone to connect to it! Shows your GPS on the whole dash.

Erica P on June 20, 2021

Great car would buy again.

The vehicle is very comfortable which makes it great for long car rides. Leg room is good even in the back seat for a tall passenger. Trunk is large for a car. Gas mileage is good and have not had any problems or performance issues from the vehicle.

Ashley P on June 19, 2021

The best part is the big screen I have in my car. It gives a huge backup camera.

The only problem I have with the Kia forte is that it is not very fast. If you are on “sport” mode it goes pretty fast. They say you get excellent gas mileage and maybe that is true but I feel as if I am constantly putting gas in it. I do however drive 45 miles to work and back so that could be the main reason why. However, I love everything else about my car. I wish I would've gotten it sooner. Just wish it was faster!

Daisy S on June 19, 2021

2020 Kia forte-broad review.

The car has just enough comfort features. The headlights are very bright. The safety features such as lane assist and emergency braking are very helpful. I have the manual transmission and it shifts very smoothly and is difficult to stall. Overall a great, reliable car.

AA A on June 18, 2021

Good compact vehicle! Recommend.

We have been really happy with the Kia forte. Compact without being 'too' compact, smooth ride, and easy handling. Wasn't my first choice but now think it is the perfect car for us, especially in the city. Would recommend to city buyers especially -- but handles fine on country roads.

Cheyenne S on June 11, 2021

Amazing gas mileage. Super roomy. Comfortable.

My key is absolutely amazing. It is super roomy and amazing on gas mileage. I am able to drive on a road trip with my husband, my daughter who’s in a car seat, and our 40 pound dog. All while having all our luggage fitting in the trunk which gives us a lot of room in the vehicle itself. The seats are super comfortable and having apple play is an amazing feature. It also has a charging dock station that you just lay your phone on and it will charge for you.

Jennifer A on May 31, 2021

Specs of the 2020 Kia forte lx sedan.

The performance of the 2020 Kia forte lxs is absolutely amazing. The sports mode is a lot of fun. You can feel a tug in sports mode because of the shift in the transmission system. I am currently leasing my Kia and later will be giving it back after my lease is up.

Tara B on May 23, 2021

2020 Kia forte blue Kia and it drives smooth and has nice and bright headlights.

There are no problems with it you get great 400 miles to a tank of gas and drives great we have only had it for a couple months but we absolutely love it we the only thing we do not like about it is the high monthly payments. It is super nice, we wouldn't trade it for anything it was super reliable. And drives smooth.

Crea S on May 21, 2021

Kia is the new it car for the year 2020.

It is inexpensive, reliable, comfortable, stylish, has a backup camera, air conditioning, factory radio, everything was brand new, booth tube, a lot of features that will keep you jazzy with these young children it also has automatic headlights and weather mats.

Shante M on May 17, 2021

Modern, sporty, and reliable!

We just bought this car this week but it is a very modern look with nice gt features including a squared steering wheel that is very sporty. The car rides very smooth and is very quiet. The gt premium line came with rims, a sunroof, and a sound system. The sound system is incredibly clear with all the effects of 808 speakers.

Renne C on May 14, 2021

The all new perfect Kia, amazing gas mileage and immaculate comfort!

The newer Kia forte's have an exquisite body structure now, they are more angled, and cut edge to suit the times we live in today. I have had absolutely no issues with this car and I love it so much, the performance is outstanding. To be honest, this car has a kick to its step. The power behind this vehicle is immaculate, the seats are so comfortable and the car is perfect for my family and I on long trips. The back has a large space for my dogs, which are larger dogs. The car rides so smooth and to top it all off, has amazing gas mileage, I highly recommend purchasing this amazing vehicle.

Molly P on May 10, 2021

Comfortable and reliable car.

Very reliable and great gas mileage. I have taken it on two 10+ hour trips and have had no problems whatsoever. The interior is very comfortable and everything can be adjusted. The entertainment station is easy to use and to connect a phone to. The maintenance at the dealership is quick and easy.

Andrew L on April 26, 2021

The Kia forte gt line has apple carplay and a huge screen. Perfect for anyone.

The Kia forte gt line is the perfect daily driver. Everything about the drive is comfortable. The ac blows cold and the seats are very comfy. Everything about the vehicle is all around outstanding. It makes the perfect daily driver for anyone. I would recommend this car to anyone 100%.

Claire D on April 22, 2021

2020 Kia forte: great lease option!

I love my new Kia forte! I love how sporty the look is, but that it is still a very spacious car. I have only been driving it for a few months, but the ride is so smooth. The apple carplay feature is also helpful, and I really do feel like it makes me drive more safely! The Lexus is the most basic model, and I would prefer to have heated seats. Another thing I noticed, is that the back of the two front seats do not have any pockets. This is not an issue for me, but it is something to be aware of, as I do not think I have seen a car without them. Overall, a great car!

Elizabeth M on April 19, 2021

Incredibly smooth and safe.

I love my Kia forte. I previously had a Toyota corolla and had no issues with it, but the forte is even better. It drives so smoothly, transitions between gears seamlessly, and has 3 types of drive (smart, sport, and normal). On average, I get 32 mpg which is amazing. The car looks small but it is really comfortable. It is reliable and safe including forward collision warnings, lane departure signal, and a back up cam. I highly recommend this car.

Alyssa F on April 15, 2021

My car is a 2020 Kia forte lease.

The vehicle I currently own is a 2020 Kia forte lease. I absolutely love this car! It has three different modes: sport, smart, and normal. The Kia forte is also great on gas and lasts me up to 2 weeks before refilling it. One of my favorite aspects of my Kia is the large touchscreen that you can connect your phone to. The GPS is so big on the screen and so easy to follow. I also like the circular air vents, they add a lot of detail. Two things I wish the car has are heated seats and push start. The car is very safe to drive and has an emergency brake stop and an alert when your driving out of the lane.

Simone R on April 7, 2021

Gt-line drives like a dream.

I absolutely love my new kia! The upgrades in the gt-line are beyond worth it such as the wireless charger, lane keep assist, flat-bottom steering wheel and harman kardon stereo system. There are very few things I would change about this car. I selected the space gray finish as I felt it was the most sleek and makes the car look more like a luxury vehicle. I forgot to mention that the rims on the gt-line kia forte also resemble that of a more luxury brand such as mercedes. The only thing I would add that is concerning about the vehicle, is that I have only owned it for 4 months and there have already been 3 recalls on parts within the vehicle. That is my only buyer-beware warning otherwise I would highly recommend this car!

Nani G on April 4, 2021

I love the fact that it has a large screen on the inside. It is easy.

Love all the features that comes with this car. It has a rear view camera and it has parking assist. It has drive assist to keep you in the lanes and it will stop itself before you hit someone else which is pretty cool. Love the color of the car it is a perfect fit for my lifestyle.

Skyler K on April 2, 2021

The computer in the Kia forte has the ability of apple CarPlay.

I purchased my Kia forte about 5 months ago and I have no complaints about this car whatsoever. It is high tech with multiple safety features; such as lane detection and collision warning. I recommend this car to anyone who drives a lot due to it having 40 miles per gallon too! 10/10 for me.

Ashley H on March 28, 2021

Kia fortes now and always.

I do not have any issues with my Kia forte. This is my second forte and I will likely buy again. The safety, gas mileage, and look are all perfect. The only improvement I would like is for the map screen to come up when I am driving. I like the backup camera and the screen in general. I can link the maps to my phone and it will provide directions but not the actual map.

John S on March 28, 2021

New Kia forte: it is a good car.

No problems. Performance is great. A lot of options for driving—can shift between 'sport' mode and 'smart' mode. Has a backup cam. A little too sporty looking on the inside. No reliability issues so far. Comfortable, but taller (6'4') friends have said it is a tight fit.

Alyssa G on March 22, 2021

Oil burns quickly with kids.

Needs more oil changes than other car models. The oil burns fast and has to be filled in less than 5000 miles. The car is comfortable and good gas mileage but the oil problem happens with Kia models. My engine has shut down due to the oil issues experienced.

Nyree L on March 21, 2021

Good, starter car, Kia forte.

Small backseat space, does not perform well in the snow. I love the sport mode, it is fast. Apple CarPlay is nice and convenient. Does not come with a spare tire. Does come with sport mode, lane assist, and collision sensors. Trim is basic with cloth seats. Overall a good starter car.

Markease W on March 19, 2021

2020 Kia forte review.

Michelle S on March 19, 2021

Highly satisfied forte owner.

This is the 2nd forte I have owned. It has great safety features, a smooth ride, is comfortable and has a modern interior. The backup camera is helpful, with a large display. Not many exterior colors to choose from but overall very satisfied. I would buy again and I highly recommend the forte.

Maria D on March 15, 2021

I love my new Kia vehicle.

It rides nice and is comfortable. It is affordable and safe. It was the best vehicle I could afford. I like the interior it is very beautiful and the seats are nice. I do wish it had a stronger engine. The trim style looks amazing! The rims are nice and tires are fantastic.

Aditya P on March 14, 2021

Interior is well laid out and looks much more premium.

Priscilla A on March 8, 2021

Great comfort, style and technology.

My vehicle is very comfortable and has great features. Many of the features include: heated seats, apple carplay, back up camera, touch screen, steering wheel voice commands and radio control. It also has three driving modes: normal, smart, and sport.

Danielle A on March 6, 2021

I love the higher position of the touch screen.

I love my Kia forte. It feels luxurious and sporty. I love the interior. I love the large touch screen and the fact that it is placed in a higher position than most other car screens. The drive is very smooth and enjoyable. I would recommend this car to anyone who was interested.

Nicole O on March 4, 2021

Reliable, safe, and stylish.

My vehicle comfortable seats. A nice sleek black exterior color. It is very reliable and I feel very safe driving it. I would prefer the seats to be leather for cleaning purposes. The screen is big and includes apple car play. This feature makes driving much easier.

Jacob W on February 26, 2021

Great all around reliable car.

Evan M on February 26, 2021

2020 Kia forte gt top line vehicle on the year.

Fast, sporty, sleek interior and exterior detail. Very affordable for a high performance vehicle, advanced technology. Has many different features, colors, and options for customers. Very reliable and comfortable. Best decision I have made in buying a car, never been happier.

Tiffany G on February 25, 2021

Hands free texting and calling.

I love this car! It is spacious and sporty. Great on mileage. I love the features with apple play, I can tell it where I want to go and it gives me step by step directions with a map to view my surroundings. The stock stereo system is nice and it has hands free text messaging that reads the texts out loud then gives you the option to reply without looking at your phone. Love that feature, it keeps everyone safe on the road.

Angel C on February 24, 2021

My favorite is sports mode, the way it sounds and how quickly it goes from 0-60.

Accelerates nicely, sports mode is awesome! Overall a great car. Very good on gas, especially when kept in smart mode. The navigation screen is very helpful when going somewhere you’ve never been, and the speakers are amazing for a road trip! I’d definitely buy this all over again.

Jessica K on February 22, 2021

Simple yet savvy. Luxurious but inexpensive.

Very reliable, outstanding performance, comfortable, with Bluetooth, backup cameras and lane assist. This car is perfect for someone who wants something semi luxurious but won't break the bank. My dog's car seat fits in there perfectly and I love how it is connected to my google assistant for hands free calling.

Marisabel H on February 14, 2021

I love the color of my car the most, it is a beautiful royal blue.

I honestly love my car. I do not have any problem with it all. It has a normal, sports, and smart mode to choose from as you please. It has a touch screen that has carplay which is super convenient, and the side windows are adjustable with a button. I am completely happy with it.

Desiree C on February 10, 2021

2020 Kia with pros and cons of the newest model of an affordable car brand.

The Kia forte 2020 is not the comfiest of seats. It is fabric and I wish it was more sturdy. There is no back seat drink holders. There’s only two in the middle by the gear shift. Good performance and sensitive brakes. It alarms you when you go over a line and when you get too close to a car. It also will continuously beep if the passenger does not have a seat belt on. It has a huge trunk that can fit so many different things. It is a stylish car and comes in red, blue, black and white. I got my car in white. It has a huge radio that is touch screen. You can get apple car and it connects to your phone Bluetooth and can play music from your phone. It also has answer and end call buttons. It pops up when you have a text message as well.

Sheniece S on February 10, 2021

I love how smooth it drives and how well it accelerates.

My car is very comfortable. I love the lane assist feature and also the back up camera. I have had some issues recently with the car itself even though it's a new car. The engine cut off unexpectedly at a red light. And it has been acting weird for a few weeks.

Isabella G on February 8, 2021

The ultimate Kia fart-ae.

The Kia forte is a good affordable car, great on gas and not hard to maintain. Great for teens because the acceleration is slow. The screen/ monitor thing freezes every once in a while but nothing too frustrating and does not last long. Is not expensive, I go to arco and get a full tank of 87 for 27-30 bucks.

Jaleen E on February 8, 2021

Love the radio touchscreen.

It's reliable haven't had one issue almost at 500 miles. They give you very nice and full of gas. I recommend Kia of Vero Beach. I got both my cars from them and I haven't had an issue with either cars. Great monitor, music is great. Dark interior for less stains. My favorite color blue.

Shaianne S on February 5, 2021

Kia forte, beautiful design. Many safety features.

My Kia forte is the best car I have ever owned. The sound system is incredible!! The seats are comfortable, there are so many features that are just amazing. Like all the controls on the car. The computer in the middle of the car, for GPS, music, Bluetooth. You can customize your features in the menu. The gas mileage is incredible I fill up about every week to 2 weeks depending on how much driving I do. I love it so much and would recommend it to anyone!

Katie M on February 2, 2021

Sleek, tech advanced and smooth.

My vehicle has had no problems so far! The technology in this car is incredible and makes me feel so safe while driving. I really love the options and settings it has inside. For instance, there is a button you can press that will make a dinging noise if you cross the lines on the road. The car also makes a sing song noise when you get in and get out, it is really cool. Also, whenever I take long road trips, if I haven't taken a break my car will tell me to stop for a coffee break and relax. Overall, I love this car so much and it is a very smooth drive.

Harley W on January 31, 2021

Best features of 2020 Kia forte.

Brand new car, great gas mileage, 3 different drive modes to give you the best gas mileage and performance, lane assist, built in navigation, apple carplay, USB plug in, led lights, system navigation system, gel foam engine pad in case of collision, front collision impact system, 0-60 in 3 seconds.

Maggie L on January 29, 2021

Kia forte can drive for you!

I have only owned my Kia for a short period of time but I love it. My previous vehicle was a mustang so I was a little sad going from a sports car to a regular car. After driving it, all of my sadness went away. The 2020 Kia forte is extremely comfortable and drives very smoothly. After 40 miles per hour it will help you take bend and turns so if you doze off it will help you prevent an accident. It beeps when you are too close to a white line, also helping prevent accidents. It accelerates very nicely and does not jerk or take a while to get up to speed. The gas mileage is phenomenal. I live on an island and can usually go 3-4 weeks before having to get gas. I have encountered zero problems with the car. It gives you a 30 day notice of when your car needs an oil change so you have plenty of time to get it done. The interior is very sleek and has a touch screen monitor that is very easy to navigate. The sounds system is crisp and good quality. The backup camera is very clear.

Joseph O on January 28, 2021

Apple carplay, 3 different types of drive modes.

This vehicle is very reliable and includes a multitude of different assets that will satisfy you. It has three different types of drive modes: regular, sport and smart. The sport mode makes a good amount of difference and the car feels a lot quicker when it is in sport mode. Smart mode is really good for daily commuting and does a good job saving gas while you are out and about. The car also includes apple carplay so if you have an apple device you can plug it in via a charge port located on the dash and the HUD for the vehicle will become that of an apple device.

Samantha H on January 27, 2021

2020 Kia forte fe sedan review.

There are features of carplay and Bluetooth. There are safety features to prevent crashes and a backup camera. The car is comfortable but not for long periods of time as with any car. The car can connect several phones to the Bluetooth with 1 as the main. I enjoy the hands free feature that helps me stay safe off my phone.

Julie T on January 20, 2021

Affordable equipped with safety features, sport car..

This Kia forte I bought last year is amazing. I use to drive to school mostly, and it performs well as I expect and no problems at all. Because it is my own car so usually only me or another person on the car so personally it's very comfortable to me. The car is cheap for a lot of safety features like blind-spot detection.

Charles W on January 16, 2021

Amazing safety car for anyone!

This car is solely based on safety and I love it! I know there are probably more cars like these nowadays but I like the feature where it dings when you are not in your lane. And reverse camera is always a plus so it is much easier to backup and see my surroundings.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.