2020 Kia Forte: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The big change for the 2020 Kia Forte is the arrival of two sporty trims: the style-focused GT-Line and the 201-hp turbocharged GT. The S trim is dropped, while the FE, LXS, and EX change very little.

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About the 2020 Kia Forte

3rd generation (2019-2024), second year after the 2019 redesign; lineup-expansion year with new GT-Line and GT trims.

Kia positions the Forte as a compact sedan that gives everyday drivers more style, technology, and safety than the basic commuter stereotype suggests. Official launch materials stress Stinger-inspired design, standard smartphone-friendly infotainment, strong fuel economy, and standard driver-assistance features, while the 2020 lineup adds both sport-look and turbo-performance versions. In plain terms, the Forte is Kia’s value-focused small sedan for commuters who still want a car that looks sharp and feels well equipped.

The 2020 Forte ranges from the essentials-first FE to the comfort-focused EX, which has synthetic-leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. GT-Line adds a sportier look without changing the regular 147-hp engine, while GT is the true performance version with a 201-hp turbo engine and sport-tuned suspension.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The new GT trim adds a 201-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. GT-Line keeps the regular 147-hp 2.0-liter engine.

Styling

The new GT-Line adds GT-inspired details such as a black grille with red accents, side sills, a rear spoiler, and 17-inch graphite wheels. GT also brings a more aggressive appearance, including 18-inch wheels and dual exhaust.

Safety

The new GT-Line adds blind-spot warning, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic warning to its equipment package.

Tech

GT-Line adds convenience features including push-button start, a proximity key, and a hands-free-opening trunk.

Structural

The new GT receives a sport-tuned multi-link rear suspension, giving it different handling hardware from the regular Forte trims.

2020 Kia Forte specs and features by trim

Feature	2020 Kia ForteEX0 in stock	2020 Kia ForteFE0 in stock	2020 Kia ForteGT7 in stock	2020 Kia ForteLXS20 in stock	2020 Kia ForteGT-Line3 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, GDI, 1.6 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, IVT	Automatic, IVT	Automatic, 7-Spd w/Dual-Clutch & Sportmatic	Automatic, IVT	Automatic, IVT
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	29 mpg	27 mpg	27 mpg	29 mpg	29 mpg
MPG Highway	40 mpg	37 mpg	35 mpg	40 mpg	40 mpg
Horsepower	147 hp	147 hp	201 hp	147 hp	147 hp
Torque	132 lb-ft	132 lb-ft	195 lb-ft	132 lb-ft	132 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	15.3 cu-ft	15.3 cu-ft	15.3 cu-ft	15.3 cu-ft	15.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	35.7 in	35.7 in	35.7 in	35.7 in	35.7 in
Seats	5	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Automatic Leveling Headlights
Blindspot Sensors
Lane Departure Warning
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Mirrors
LED Daytime Running Lights
LED Headlights
LED Tail Lights
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Subwoofer
Comfort & Convenience
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Folding Rear Seat
Heated Front Seats
Interior Ambient Lighting
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Ventilated Front Seats

How the 2021 Kia Forte compares

The 2021 Kia Forte is mostly a carryover, with the EX’s expanded standard equipment as the biggest change. It remains the same third-generation sedan with the same five trims and two-engine lineup.

See the full 2021 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2020 Kia Forte compared with the 2019 model?

The 2020 Kia Forte adds GT-Line and GT trims and drops the S trim. GT-Line takes over the sporty-looking role, while GT adds a 201-hp turbo engine and upgraded suspension; FE, LXS, and EX change very little.

Is the 2020 Kia Forte GT turbocharged?

Yes. The 2020 Kia Forte GT has a 201-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, along with a sport-tuned multi-link rear suspension and dual exhaust.

Does the 2020 Kia Forte GT-Line have the GT’s turbo engine?

No. The 2020 Forte GT-Line keeps the regular 147-hp 2.0-liter engine. Its upgrades focus on sporty exterior details, convenience features, and added driver-assistance equipment rather than extra power.

Was the Kia Forte redesigned for 2020?

No. The Forte was redesigned for 2019, so 2020 is the second year of that generation. Its main update is the broader trim lineup rather than a new body or cabin design.

Which 2020 Kia Forte trim is the comfort-focused non-turbo model?

The 2020 Forte EX is the comfort-focused non-turbo trim. It pairs the regular 2.0-liter engine with synthetic-leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control.

2020 Kia Forte Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2020 Kia Forte.

4.0

2020 Kia Forte

(103 reviews)

5 stars (32)

4 stars (43)

3 stars (21)

2 stars (5)

1 star (2)

“It's a fine car so far; am enjoying it very much. Wish it had pockets on the back of the front seats and a separate compartment in the top of the console storage (between the front seats) for keeping small things. Love the included alloy wheels. Want a compass in the rear view mirror in next car.”

TSTed S.
2020 Kia Forte Sedan

No rating

“excellent all around moderate sized vehicle that is roomy, very efficient, high quality control and reliability. Looks good as well”

JIJack I.
2020 Kia Forte Sedan

“I like the overall style and look of the vehicle, inside and out. I am, however, extremely disappointed with the performance.”

JSJaeden S.
2020 Kia Forte FE Sedan