Kia Forte vs Hyundai Elantra: Two economical compact cars from the sister Korean automakers.
See New Car Clearance Prices
Congratulations! We've Located Clearance Prices
Choose Dealers to See Prices
Thank You
I would like to be notified of other BuyerLink.com money-saving offers
SEE CLEARANCE PRICES* By submitting your information, you agree to be contacted regarding automotive information, using email, telephone or text – including the use of autodialed and/or prerecorded calls or messages to the telephone number provided above, including your wireless number, if provided. I understand that consent is not a condition of purchase.
The new model year offers car buyers a host of affordable small cars to choose from. If you're looking for a new car but don't know where to start, you may want to review a Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra comparison. Both cars come with low sticker prices and many attractive features.
Price
The Hyundai Elantra is listed as one of the most affordable cars in its class, with the base trim model price starting at $16,965. The Kia Forte ranks lower in affordability despite its MSRP of $15,400. Fuel economy plays a key role in the affordability factor of each car.
The new Hyundai Elantra gets an estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Drivers can expect 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with the Kia Forte. The lower gas mileage of the Forte gives it a slightly higher cost of ownership in a Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra comparison.
Engine
Both vehicles come with a four-cylinder engine. Hyundai Elantra buyers can opt for a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the standard six-speed manual transmission. Recent car reviews show that neither car is very powerful, though both perform reasonably well. The coupe and hatchback Elantra models did perform better than the sedan. The base trim Kia Forte was noted to have a smoother ride than the sportier SX trim.
Safety ratings
In a Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra safety comparison, both cars were chosen as top safety picks from the IIHS. The Elantra received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Board. The Forte performed reasonably well and received a four-star safety rating. Both cars come equipped with traction control, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and air bags.
Features and options
New car buyers looking for extra features and options won't be disappointed with the available upgrades for these cars. The 2013 Kia Forte offers the following options:
- Navigation system
- Push button start
- Automatic climate control
- USB input
According to its buying guide, the Hyundai Elantra also comes with a number of available options for those looking to step up from the base trim, including the following features:
- Push button start
- Heated front and rear seats
- Satellite radio
- Clean air ionizer
- Driver lumbar support
Get your local Kia Forte vs Hyundai Elantra price quotes now!
Reviews of both cars show that the Kia Forte has a cramped interior for back seat passengers. The Hyundai Elantra offers a bit more space, but neither model provides as much room as a mid-size vehicle might. If you are looking for a family car, you may want to consider a larger vehicle.
As you consider your many options for a new car, remember to use a Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra comparison to narrow down the field of affordable small cars. Use Reply! to connect with local dealers and set up test drives to decide which car is best for you.