The Kia Forte GT 2024 is the sportiest version of Kia’s five-passenger small sedan. It was redesigned in 2022 and continues to be its cheapest vehicle. With GT models adding power and the option of a manual transmission, it ticks some boxes for enthusiasts. However, the Forte name is on the wane and is to be replaced by the K4.

I spent a week behind the wheel with the kids and friends in tow and there was a lot to like. However, there were a few things that needed improvement, mostly inside the cabin.

KEEP: Powertrain

Here, Kia’s turbocharged engine delivers a solid 201 horsepower (hp), which is enough to get the Forte going, and brings back memories of middle- and high-school fun vehicles. The dual-clutch transmission can be operated using paddles on the steering wheel or using the gear selector.

Kia did a great job of smoothing out the unit’s sluggishness and making it feel sporty when driven fast. The pack is a bit noisy at full tilt.

CHANGE: Insulation

A humming engine and a lack of sound-deadening materials make this Forte GT a bit noisier than most highway drivers. The little four-cylinder revs high to maintain power, resulting in plenty of grunt in the cabin.

It’s the same with the suspension. The Forte GT handles well and handles bumps well, but noise and vibration are clearly transmitted to the interior.

KEEP: Red accents

Between the red accent stitching on the seats in this GT trim and the sculpted door handles, the Forte took a big leap forward in design. The seats have patterned stitching on various panels, while the colors pop.

I also like the red trim on the doors and steering wheel and the red GT logo on the seat backs. It also matches the digital red on the climate control panel.

CHANGE: Materials

The 2024 Forte features lots of hard black and chrome plastic. The accent colors do nothing to take away from the cheap feel of these materials and the sounds they make when tapped or tapped.

Many of the metallic-looking materials are also plastic, some of which could easily be swapped out for a more premium feel while the automaker keeps the price low (see: Hyundai Elantra).

KEEP: General aggressiveness

Being a GT-attached car means it’s sportier than your average compact sedan, and with front-wheel drive, it’s still safe in slippery conditions. The turbocharged four-cylinder revs quickly and will even allow buyers to spin the tires from a traffic light, usually around a corner.

Driving fast is just plain fun, and the shifters are great for multiple downshifts and passing slower moving traffic in their massive SUVs, all while guzzling gas.