2024 Kia Forte vs. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta

2024 Volkswagen
Jetta

MSRP*: $21,435 to $28,825
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

MPG - City 22 - 30 MPG 29 - 30 MPG
MPG - Hwy 31 - 41 MPG 40 - 42 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)
  • 158-hp, 1.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic, Continuously Variable, Manual Automatic, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 147 - 201 hp 158 hp
Exterior Length 182.7 in 186.5 in
Exterior Width 70.9 in 70.8 in
Leg Room Front 42.2 in
Rear 35.7 in
Front 41.1 in
Rear 37.4 in
Head Room Front 38.8 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 38.5 in
Rear 37.2 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
Passengers in the back seat will feel a little more squished in the Kia Forte than in the Volkswagen Jetta, due to the Kia Forte's smaller rear head- and legroom. Offering just a little more front head- and legroom than the Volkswagen Jetta, the Kia Forte may be a little roomier and more comfortable for the driver and front seat passengers.

Convenience
You'll be making about the same number of stops at the gas station with the Kia Forte as you will with the Volkswagen Jetta, as they get the same number of miles per tank of gas.

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). Whether you pick the Kia Forte or the Volkswagen Jetta, it's going to cost you about the same.

Dimensions
The Kia Forte is about the same width as the Volkswagen Jetta. The Kia Forte is slightly shorter than the Volkswagen Jetta, which may make it easier to park.

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

Performance
The Kia Forte has less horsepower than the Volkswagen Jetta, so it will probably be somewhat slower.

Powertrain
The Kia Forte has much less torque than the Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta.