Affordable cars are increasingly hard to find, but Kia has announced the 2024 Forte will begin at US$ 19,790. That’s US$ 100 more than its predecessor, but it likely won’t hamper enthusiasm for the model, which is the brand’s second best-selling vehicle in America. However, changes are limited as the 2024 Forte GT-Line eschews the previously optional Tech Package and now comes standard with “Front Collision Alert Fusion, a combination of Front Collision Alert-Cyclist, Electronic Parking, Highway Driver Assist, and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control.”

There doesn’t appear to be any other updates, but the entry-level Forte LX has halogen headlights, body-color components, and 15-inch steel wheels. Buyers will also find air conditioning, a four-speaker audio system, and an immobilizer. They’re joined by a 4.2-inch multi-information display and an 8-inch infotainment system. Despite sitting at the bottom of the lineup, the LX has Forward Collision Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keeping Assist. They’re joined by Lane Following Assist, High-Beam Assist, Rear Occupant Detection Alert, and Driver Attention Warning.

 

Motivation is provided by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 hp and 179 Nm of torque. It’s connected to an Intelligent Variable Transmission, which sends power to the front wheels. Customers looking for more performance can opt for the range-topping Forte GT, which begins at US$ 24,490. It features a sportier exterior with LED lighting units, gloss black accents, a rear spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The upgrades continue in the cabin as there’s a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and SynTex or cloth/SynTex seats. Other highlights include alloy pedals, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a wireless smartphone charger, and a six- or eight-speaker audio system. Buyers will also find additional driver assistance technology including Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Highway Driving Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.

On the performance front, the usual torsion beam is replaced by a multi-link rear suspension. More importantly, the GT has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 201 hp and 264 Nm of torque. It can be paired to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.