2022 Kia Forte Preview
After a complete redesign for the 2019 model year, Kia has given the Forte a mid-cycle refresh for 2022 with updated styling elements in the front and back as well as some interior and tech upgrades. Significant among the changes are an available 10.25-inch widescreen navigation display and a Highway Driving Assist system which uses highway speed limit information from the navigation unit to adjust speed according to the posted speed limit when the Smart Cruise Control system is engaged. With the changes, Kia intends for the Forte to continue its strong sales and maintain its cachet with compact sedan shoppers.
Customers can choose from four trims of the Forte: base FE, midrange LXS, sport-oriented as well as well-equipped GT-Line, and the performance-driven GT. All Forte trims except GT get a 147-horsepower 4-cylinder engine with the FE trim capable of 41 miles per gallon on the highway. Those who pick the GT receive a turbocharged 4-cylinder motor that generates 201 horsepower and which allows for the choice of a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox or 6-speed manual transmission for enthusiasts. The GT also gets multi-link rear suspension and a dual sport-tuned exhaust.
Changes on the outside are redesigned headlights, a more aggressive front grille, new wheel designs, as well as revised front and rear bumpers. The inside gets a larger 4.2-inch color screen in the gauge cluster, standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote start, and optional synthetic leather seats. A lane following assist system is also new along with the aforementioned Highway Driving Assist system. All of these updates will likely continue to keep a Forte a popular option among the current crop of compact sedans and buyers will presumably not be disappointed with what they experience.
