Kia has released pricing for the 2020 Forte GT sedan, and it starts from just over US$ 23,000. More specifically, the exact MSRP is US$ 22,290, but when you factor in the US$ 925 destination charge you end up with US$ 23,215. Not bad for a 201 HP compact sedan that comes equipped as standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, a sport-tuned multi-link rear suspension, and beefier front brakes.

It’s a pretty good deal when you also consider the fact that the 228 hp 2020 VW Jetta GLI starts at US$ 26,890 – US$ 3,675 more than the Forte GT! And it’s not like Kia’s 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine lacks grunt. It delivers 201 hp at 6,000 rpm and 264 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. While the automaker does not reveal performance figures, it’s not hard to realize that the quickest version is the one equipped with the DCT.
                   

Getting the optional six-speed manual costs an additional $600, so one would have to be really committed to changing gears themselves to get that one. While we’re fans of manual gearboxes, it’s hard to believe many customers will get it given the superior performance, comfort, and fuel economy offered by the DCT. Speaking of efficiency, the 2020 Forte GT returns 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined. That’s around 2 mpg better than the manual version’s 25/32/28 mpg.

Compared to regular 2020 Forte models, the GT offers more than just a stronger powertrain. Standard features also include a sport-tuned dual exhaust, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with auto-leveling and High Beam Assist (HBA), smart key with push-button start, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel with paddle shifters (on DCT only) and red contrast stitching.


Standard gear consists of Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist-Line (LKA-Line), and Driver Attention Warning (DAW).

If you don’t care for the added performance, you can always get the Forte GT-Line which looks almost the same but offers significantly less power in the form of a 147 HP naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four mated to a CVT, which can be yours for US$ 21,315 (including destination).