Compact cars give you the timeless profile and design of a midsize sedan with a focus on agility, efficiency and price. No longer the “penalty boxes” of days past, these nimble cars generally offers similar interior refinements and technology to larger sedans. Within this class, however, there are still models that stand out for their ability to deliver more. Certain models come much closer to feeling like driving a mid-size or even entry-luxury vehicle than others. If they can do this without pricing themselves out, it’s hard to beat the value.
Consistently recognized as a top contender in this class, the Kia Forte enters 2019 with several significant changes. The understated European styling of the 2018 model has given way to a decidedly sporty style that maintains a prominent level of sophistication. Inside, the Forte could be mistaken for a sports car with luxury contours and a decadent floating touchscreen. Today, we’re matching it up with the new 2019 Jetta. Let’s see how they do!
2019 Kia Forte |
Vs. |
2019 Volkswagen Jetta |
---|---|---|
147 horsepower (no lag) | Horsepower | 147 horsepower |
Intelligent CVT (brand new) | Top transmission option | Automatic |
35 combined MPG | Projected fuel economy | 34 combined MPG |
8-inch “floating” touchscreen | Standard infotainment | 6.5-inch in-dash touchscreen |
106.3 inches | Wheelbase (longer = smoother ride) | 105.7 inches |
42.2 inches | Front-row legroom | 41.1 inches |
39.3 inches | Front-row headroom | 38.5 inches |
Yes – four-years running | J.D. Power Initial Quality Study top brand? | No |
10 years / 100,000 miles | Limited engine warranty | 6 years / 72,000 miles |
The 2019 Kia Forte is proof that compact cars can be so much more than simply an economic option. With its sports-car-inspired styling that pulls several cues from the Kia Stinger, luxurious standard infotainment options and decadent passenger space, you’ll forget you’re driving a compact car.
While the new 2019 Volkswagen Jetta improves on the 2018 model in many ways, it still can’t match the amount of value and features that are found in the upcoming Forte.
Although equal on horsepower, the Forte’s delivery is lag-free thanks to its Atkinson-cycle-tuned naturally-aspirated engine. The smaller turbocharged engine on the Jetta equals the horsepower, but can’t match the project fuel efficiency of the Forte.
Like compact cars, dealerships are not all made equal. At Harper Kia, we’re Humboldt County's preferred Kia dealer.
Schedule a test-drive with the 2019 Kia Forte today! We’ll call you the second they hit our showroom floor.