Honda Accord versus Kia Forte

If you're looking for a new car, chances are that style, affordability, and updated technology features are important to you. The Honda Accord and Kia Forte are both sedans that pack a lot of comfort and high-quality features throughout their builds. The reliable Honda Accord is a midsize sedan that has a lot of updated safety features and a roomy cabin for passengers, making it an excellent choice for families. The Kia Forte is a compact sedan that emphasizes premium style at an affordable price.

Both sedans have plenty of advantages to offer drivers, so how do you choose between the Accord vs. the Forte? We'll go over the details of each model, plus the pros and cons so that you can more easily come to a decision. 

Honda Accord (2023)

The Honda Accord has a reputation for reliability and good value for your money throughout its previous generations. The current model year Accord offers the same value and high-quality features that make it a favorite among consumers. Along with high fuel efficiency ratings for its gas and hybrid trims and a high-quality build, this sedan retains its resale value over time.

The Accord is available in six different trim levels–LX, EX, Sport Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid. If you're interested in the most affordable option, the base trim (LX) costs $27,295. However, if your price range is open to higher prices, the most expensive option is the Touring Hybrid at $37,890. 

There are a lot of standard safety features which are available in all six trim levels. Some of these features include but are not limited to a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition system. If you're interested in some of the pricier trim levels, you'll also have safety features like a blind spot information system, low-speed braking control, and parking sensors.

Kia Forte (2023)

The Kia forte is an affordable option in the compact sedan market segment and offers reasonable safety and technology features for the price. Its sleek and sporty design makes it a favorite among customers who are on a budget. 

The Forte is available in five trims–LX (base trim), LXS, GT-Line, GT, and GT-Manual (highest trim). For those car shoppers that are looking for the most affordable option, the base trim costs $19,060. But for those who want more features and upgrades, the highest trim available costs $25,090. 

The standard technology features on the Forte offer a lot of convenience and value to drivers. You'll be able to enjoy an eight-inch touchscreen display, rearview camera, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. Additionally, on higher trims, you'll have a push button start, wireless phone charger, and rear USB charging port to make the riding experience as comfortable as possible.

How Do They Compare?

Though both sedans have similarities, there are some differences between the two cars that could impact your decision. We'll go over some of the pros and cons of each option.

The Kia Forte Has More Affordable Prices Than the Honda Accord

One of the big advantages of the Kia Forte is the pricing difference between the Honda Accord. You'll pay significantly less when you buy a Forte no matter what trim level you choose. The highest-priced Forte at $25,090 is a couple of thousand dollars less than the cheapest Accord. So, if you're on a tight budget, the Kia Forte may be the best option for you.

The Honda Accord Offers More Horsepower Than the Kia Forte

Overall, the Accord offers a more powerful engine than the Forte. So, if you care about how well the car handles and accelerates, you'll prefer the Accord vs. the Forte. The base trim of the Kia has a 147 horsepower engine, while the Accord's base trim has a 192 horsepower engine. Additionally, the Accord's higher hybrid trim levels jump to a 204 horsepower engine, while the high trims of the Forte only go up to 201 horsepower.

The Honda Accord Has Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Options

The most fuel-efficient option comes from Honda. The Accord hybrid trims offer great savings at the fuel pump. The EX-L Hybrid trim has an estimated combined 48 mpg rating. In contrast, the most fuel-efficient trim from the Forte line has an estimated combined 34 mpg rating. So if you care about having a fuel-efficient car, you'll prefer the Accord vs. the Forte. 

The Honda Accord Has More Space Than the Kia Forte

Since the Accord is considered a midsize sedan and the Forte is considered a compact sedan, it's obvious that the Accord will have more space for passengers and cargo. For some people, especially those with kids, having extra room in the seating area or more trunk space for belongings can be a big selling point. However, the Forte is roomy for its compact size class. If you are not interested in extra passenger space, the Forte may be a comfortable size for your needs.

Deciding between the Accord vs. the Forte will come down to your personal preference and needs. If you're sticking to a tight budget, the Forte is an adequate compact sedan that still provides a lot of technology features for a comfortable riding experience. However, the Accord provides better overall quality in terms of features and performance. Though it is a more expensive option, the hybrid trims can save you money over time due to their fuel efficiency. We have a selection of Honda models, including the current model year Accord that are available for a test drive when you're ready to start car shopping.