The Forte received a refresh for 2022, so the 2023 model year is almost unchanged
The available technology package is deleted, but most of its features are made standard on the top-of-the-line model
Kia could give the Forte an extensive rework for 2024, possibly paired with a new name
Since it was refreshed last year, the Kia Forte will remain mostly the same for 2023, with the exception of a number of trim level changes in the United States.
These changes include renaming the entry-level FE to LX and removing the GT Technology Package from the options list.
This first change will bring the US lineup closer in line with the Canadian one, where the entry-level model was already called LX.
A difference that could remain between the US and Canada models is that the 2022 Forte was available in seven trim levels in Canada instead of only four in the US.
The deletion of the GT Technology package is compensated by making a number of its content standard on the top-of-the-line GT model, such as Navigation Based Cruise Control, Highway Driving Assist, Front Alert with Cyclist detection, and the Electronic Parking Brake.
Since the mechanical elements remain the same for 2023, the Forte will continue to offer two engines: a standard 2,0L four-cylinder engine that delivers 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque and a turbocharged 1,6L four-cylinder with an output of 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
In the US, the 2,0L engine is only available with a CVT transmission while the 1,6L turbo is offered both with a six-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Kia Canada has yet to make an announcement on any possible changes for the 2023 model year, which could mimic those seen in the US.
The small number of changes for the new year could hint that the Forte will be more thoroughly reworked for 2024, at which point it could adopt the K3 name which is already in use in South Korea.
This is likely since the Optima was replaced by the K5 in 2021 and Kia has reportedly trademarked the K3 name in the United States.
