2023 Kia Forte Vs. 2023 Hyundai Elantra in Corpus Christi, TX

2023 Kia Forte Vs. 2023 Hyundai Elantra in Corpus Christi, TX

2023 Forte vs. 2023 Elantra in Corpus Christi, TX

Competition is tight within the compact car segment. Just the case between the 2023 Kia Forte versus the 2023 Hyundai Elantra.

The Hyundai Elantra has been in production since 1990. Meanwhile, the Kia Forte debuted in 2008. Given that Hyundai is Kia’s parent company, both sedans share the same vehicle platform. The Kia Forte’s design has always been for the newer generation. The brand set this as a priority and thus employ modern and sharp design cues.

In this Forte vs. Elantra comparison, let’s look into the two compact sedans’ interiors, performance numbers, and safety features. Finally, in the context of the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, we offer our thoughts on which car has the edge of becoming the best compact sedan.

Interior Comparison

First off, size is not always important for compact cars. Thus the name, and is why the segment is also referred to as the small family car. Moreover, in this Kia vs. Hyundai matchup, there is a give-and-take.

For example, while the 2023 Elantra has a bigger passenger volume, the 2023 Forte offers more cargo space at 15.3 cubic feet. Alternatively, while the front head and leg room favor the 2023 Elantra, the rear head and hip room lean toward the 2023 Forte with 37.5 and 51.1 inches, respectively. Save for when passengers are above average in size, passengers will hardly notice.

Air conditioning, sound systems, and wireless mobile device connectivity are practically the same. As are standard driver-assist features for the base models like cruise control and backup cameras.

On the top trim, the 2023 Forte takes the lead with optional features not available on the 2023 Elantra. These include adaptive cruise control, parking assistance, and cooled/ventilated seats.

2023 Kia Forte

Steering ColumnCenter ConsoleCargo Space

2023 Hyundai Elantra

Steering ColumnCenter ConsoleCargo Space

Performance Comparison

As to performance, both the 2023 Forte and 2023 Elantra base trims use 2-liter, 4-cylinder engines. These produce 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm.

On the top trims, both have 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engines with an output of 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 rpm.

Tests show that the 2023 Elantra has slightly better fuel economy, but real-world numbers will vary from driver to driver. Yet, since the 2023 Forte has a larger capacity fuel tank, it is bound to travel farther between refills with the same driver.

Safety Features Comparison

Safety is a shared priority for the 2023 Forte and 2023 Elantra. As such, both carry a similar suite of safety features like airbags (dual front, dual front side, and full-length side curtains).

Driver-assist features like forward collision-avoidance assist, driver attention warning, lane-keeping, and following assist also make an appearance.

Find the 2023 Forte in Corpus Christi, TX

As is now obvious in our Kia vs. Hyundai comparison, there are a few notable differences. This is despite having the same specifications for the engines, transmissions, and safety equipment.

Although these differences may be slight or compensated for in other areas. As such, the 2023 Kia Forte offers better value for money. Its price points at each trim level are lower, with some key features actually being better. This is in exchange for a minor penalty in size and fuel economy.

Come see the 2023 Kia Forte in person here at Mike Shaw Kia in Corpus Christi, TX. Schedule a test drive and inquire about current offers and specials.

Mike Shaw Kia 27.697490, -97.347780.