Buying a New Car vs a Used Kia Car in Albuquerque NM
Even though many automakers are reducing their sedan production, the compact sedan class is still highly competitive, so value is a significant part of a vehicle’s success within the segment. The 2023 Kia Forte near Santa Fe NM has a price tag below its direct rivals and comes with some extra features, depending on the trim level. In addition to its high-quality and spacious cabin, including the back seat area, it also provides a roomy trunk. These amenities, along with an industry-leading warranty and great fuel economy, make the Kia Forte an exceptional choice for shoppers.
The Forte underwent a redesign for 2022 and received a refreshed exterior, more tech features as standard equipment, and the discontinuation of the EX trim. Therefore, we expect few, if any, changes for the new model year. However, due to a recent trademark filing, we think the Forte may get a name change soon. It won’t be a surprise if it’s given the K3 moniker to match its identity in other countries. Nevertheless, expect five trim levels to be offered, including the entry-level LX (renamed from prior FE), LXS, GT-Line, GT, and newly added GT-Manual.
How Much Does the 2023 Kia Forte near Santa Fe NM Cost?
As we said, the low price tag of the Forte is a big draw, and it begins with the base LX priced at just $19,490, while the midlevel LXS and GT-Line trims start at $19,990 and $21,690, respectively. With a more powerful 201-horsepower engine, the GT model begins at $24,190, and the GT Manual starts at $24,890.
Exterior Features
No matter the configuration of the 2023 Forte, its sleek and stylish exterior is sure to turn many a head. Designed with a bold attitude, the new Forte has a more distinct front fascia with a sportier new take on Kia’s “tiger-nose” grille. Other changes made in 2022 included three-point LED fog lights in a diagonal pattern on the GT trim. These are also available on the GT-Line trim, along with different LED taillights. Updated 16-,17-, and 18-inch wheels complement the exterior improvements.
Fresh and High-Tech Interior
The 2023 Kia Forte near Santa Fe NM gets an A+ for its attractive, well-built, and modern interior. It offers ample head and legroom even in the back seats, and with 15.3 cubic feet, it has one of the biggest trunks in the compact segment. Available 60/40 split-folding rear seats with trunk access help to haul longer cargo items while still leaving room for two rear seat passengers.
Seats are quite comfortable in both rows, and the available 10-way adjustable power driver’s seat with 2-way power lumbar support allows you to customize the perfect driving position. Also available are heated and ventilated front seats to enhance the driver and front passenger’s comfort.
The highlight of the sedan’s cabin is the intuitive infotainment system. It has a well-placed and responsive touchscreen but also offers physical control knobs. Standard infotainment features include an 8-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, a 4-speaker audio system, and a USB port. A larger, 10.25-inch touchscreen is available with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Many more options are available within different add-on packages, including premium audio, wireless device charging, remote start, dual-zone climate control, and a sunroof to name just a few.
Safety Tech
The Forte comes with a nice assortment of driver-assist features to help keep everyone safe, including forward collision warning, rearview camera, pedestrian detection, driver-attention monitor, forward auto emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beams. Other available features include rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, cyclist detection, and much more.
Power and Performance
Two engines are offered with the 2023 Kia Forte: a 2.0L 4-cylinder delivering 147 hp and a 201-hp 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder. The base engine isn’t especially powerful but does provide an excellent 29/40 MPG for city/highway. Joined with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it’s perfectly acceptable for the average driver.
For drivers who like more oomph, there’s the turbo-four, and it comes mated with either a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. However, only the top-tier GT and GT Manual get this engine. Of course, with more power you get less fuel efficiency, with these models averaging 22-27 MPG city and 31-35 MPG highway.
Which One to Buy?
With so many choices in dealerships, it’s hard to decide the right dealer that is the perfect fit for you, so why not stop by Fiesta Kia to test drive a few? We’re located at 7400 Lomas Blvd NE, just a few miles down the road in Albuquerque New Mexico!