Consumer Reports’ Worst Compact Car Is Among J.D. Power’s Best
- 2022 Kia Forte starting MSRP: $19,090
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with 147 hp
- 31/41/35 EPA-estimated mpg (city/highway/combined)
- Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology
- 4.2-inch LCD display instrument cluster
The 2022 Kia Forte might be on your shopping list if you’re in the market for a new compact car. However, before you make your final decision, consider top critics’ reviews. The 2022 Kia Forte is in last place on Consumer Reports’ compact car list while placing in the top three in J.D. Power’s roundup.
The 2022 Kia Forte is Consumer Reports’ worst compact car
Consumer Reports testers say that although the 2022 Kia Forte provides easy-to-use controls, impressive fuel economy, and a long list of features, “the current model has regressed to basic transportation. It suffers from a stiff ride, and its cabin is extremely loud even by the category’s modest standards.”
In addition, the front seats are pretty basic and don’t offer much support for the lower back, which wouldn’t be comfortable on long commutes. The overall ride quality is bumpy, and the suspension is stiff. Also, the Kia Forte isn’t as reliable as it’s made out to be. If you absolutely must have this car, buy the LXS trim. It comes standard with alloy wheels, a few soft-touch interior materials, and 60/40-split folding rear seats for cargo.
J.D. Power says the same compact car is a top pick
According to J.D Power, here’s what drivers seem to like most about the Kia Forte:
- The ability to hold personal items exactly where you want them
- The user experience of voice assistance
- The ease of getting in and out of the rear seats
Those perks led to an impressive third-place spot on a list of nine compact cars. They all seem like good shopping points until you consider what owners don’t like.
Apparently, the headlights aren’t as effective as they could be, posing a potential safety issue. In addition, the Forte allegedly doesn’t steer or handle well while driving in slippery conditions, another safety problem.
And to top it all off, the car’s interior doesn’t seem to stay at the desired temperature, which could be considered a comfort problem.
So, should you buy a 2022 Kia Forte?
Though J.D. Power listed some positives, the 2022 Kia Forte is one of the least satisfying cars you can buy, according to Consumer Reports. Reliability and ride comfort are the main pain points.
Consumer Reports favors the 2022 Subaru Impreza, the 2022 Nissan Sentra, and even the 2022 Hyundai Elantra. You might also consider a new Toyota Corolla or a Volkswagen Jetta. CR scored all of those cars higher than the Kia Forte.
However, if you’re on a budget and want the excitement of driving a new car, a Forte might be a good fit.
