2024 Kia Forte vs. 2023 Subaru WRX Review

Picture of the 2024 Kia Forte

2024 Kia
Forte

MSRP*: $19,990 to $25,390
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Picture of the 2023 Subaru WRX

2023 Subaru
WRX

MSRP*: $30,605 to $43,395
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MPG - City 22 - 30 MPG 19 MPG
MPG - Hwy 31 - 41 MPG 25 - 26 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 147-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 201-hp, 1.6-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 271-hp, 2.4-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic, Continuously Variable, Manual Continuously Variable, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive
Horsepower 147 - 201 hp 271 hp
Exterior Length 182.7 in 183.8 in
Exterior Width 70.9 in 71.9 in
Leg Room Front 42.2 in
Rear 35.7 in
Front 43.1 in
Rear 36.5 in
Head Room Front 38.8 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 38.8 - 39.8 in
Rear 36.7 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
The Kia Forte offers rear passengers about the same space to stretch out as the Subaru WRX with comparable rear head- and legroom in both vehicles. The Subaru WRX will be a favorite with taller drivers due to its greater front head- and legroom than the Kia Forte.

Convenience
With the Kia Forte you will definitely be making fewer stops at the gas station than with the Subaru WRX, due to its larger tank size and better fuel economy.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Based on MSRP, the Kia Forte is clearly a better financial choice over the Subaru WRX.

Dimensions
The Kia Forte is a little narrower than the Subaru WRX, so you'll have an easier time getting in and out of the car in a tight parking spot. When looking at overall length, the Kia Forte takes up about the same amount of space in your garage as the Subaru WRX.

Handling
The Kia Forte has a smaller turning radius than the Subaru WRX, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Kia Forte is significantly less powerful than the Subaru WRX. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

Powertrain
The Kia Forte has much less torque than the Subaru WRX, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Kia Forte and the Subaru WRX.