2024 Kia Forte vs. 2024 Lexus IS 350 Review

Picture of the 2024 Kia Forte

2024 Kia
Forte

MSRP*: $19,990 to $25,390
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

Picture of the 2024 Lexus IS 350

2024 Lexus
IS 350

MSRP*: $43,260 to $46,510
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

MPG - City 22 - 30 MPG 19 - 20 MPG
MPG - Hwy 31 - 41 MPG 26 - 28 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)
  • 311-hp, 3.5-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic, Continuously Variable, Manual Automatic
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive, Rear Wheel Drive
Horsepower 147 - 201 hp 311 hp
Exterior Length 182.7 in 185.4 in
Exterior Width 70.9 in 72.4 in
Leg Room Front 42.2 in
Rear 35.7 in
Front 44.8 in
Rear 32.2 in
Head Room Front 38.8 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 38.2 in
Rear 36.9 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
Due to its greater rear head- and legroom, backseat passengers will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Kia Forte than the Lexus IS 350. The Lexus IS 350 will be a favorite with taller drivers due to its greater front head- and legroom than the Kia Forte.

Convenience
The Kia Forte will require fewer stops at the gas station than the Lexus IS 350, making it more convenient to drive.

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 Lexus IS 350.

Dimensions
Since the Kia Forte is much slimmer than the Lexus IS 350, it'll be much easier to find a wide enough space in a crowded parking lot. When looking at overall length, the Kia Forte takes up about the same amount of space in your garage as the Lexus IS 350.

Handling
The Kia Forte has about the same turning radius as the Lexus IS 350, allowing equal maneuverability in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Kia Forte is significantly less powerful than the Lexus IS 350. 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 Lexus IS 350, 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 Lexus IS 350.