2022 Hyundai Elantra vs Kia Forte

A reliable and reasonable alternative to heavy trucks or SUVs, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra and Kia Forte offer drivers a great option for navigating roads. Perfectly simple to drive yet still offering ample features at an affordable price point - these compact sedans are looking like future favorites of many commuters.

Making a decision between Kia and Hyundai? This guide will help you make an informed choice. Beyond similarities due to their linked parent companies, these two automakers also have unique differences that can be key deciding factors for potential buyers. Learn more about the distinctions between Kia and Hyundai before taking your seat behind the wheel.

The Powertrain

The 2022 Elantra offers two powertrain options that cater to a variety of needs. Its base engine is an efficient 2.0L four-cylinder, which produces 147 horsepower and utilizes continuously variable transmission for improved performance and economy. If desired, the hybrid option can be selected instead; it boasts 139 total system horsepower from its 1.6L unit plus a more traditional six-speed automatic gearbox setup - perfect for those seeking even greater fuel efficiency or enhanced driving dynamics.

For drivers seeking thrilling power, the 2022 Elantra offers two engine options. The N-Line trim comes with a turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder that puts out an impressive 201 horsepower and can be paired to either manual or dual clutch transmission systems. Those looking for something even more powerful should opt for the higher performance N model equipped with a 2.0L four cylinder delivering up to 276 horses when coupled with an eight speed automatic transmission system - sure to satisfy any drive's need for speed.

The 2022 Kia Forte packs a punch with its standard engine 2.0L four-cylinder, capable of delivering up to 147 horsepower for an enjoyable drive. Those who crave more power can select the GT trim which features the same 201-horsepower N Line Elantra engine and comes paired with either a six speed manual or seven speed dual clutch automatic transmission - giving drivers flexibility in how they choose to customize their ride experience! In the near future there will also be options for owners looking into hybrid versions.

Neither the Elantra nor Forte are offered with all-wheel drive in 2022, but they do offer noteworthy fuel efficiency. The base engine of the Elantra boasts 33mpg city and 43mpg highway while its hybrid offers an estimated 54mpg combined. Drivers who opt for the N-Line can expect 28/36 mpg (automatic) or 25/34 mpg (manual), and those selecting to get behind wheel of an N will be rewarded with 22/31 MPG manual transmission or 20/30 MPG automatic.

Despite sharing the same standard engine, the Forte falls short when it comes to efficiency. The base model is estimated at 31mpg/41mpg city/highway respectively - 2 mpg less than its Elantra counterpart. Other trims receive 29mgp/39mpgs for their automatic and 22mps/31mph for manual transmissions; falling further behind with a turbocharged system delivering 27city /35hwy (automatic) or 22city /31hwy (manual).

With the new Forte and Elantra compact sedans, drivers can enjoy a reliable ride backed by an impressive 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty as well as a five year/60K limited warranty. According to reliability ratings compiled from various sources, the Kia Forte takes top honors with 87 out of 100 while Hyundai's Elantra isn't far behind at 80 points.

Drivability

The Hyundai Elantra, with its standard hybrid engine, is conducive for driving. Responsive steering and a tight turning radius make it effortless to maneuver this sedan around town. The N-Line model is downright sporty to drive, thanks to its sophisticated rear suspension and bigger brakes. The Elantra N has even larger front brakes, plus adaptive shock absorbers, making it exhilarating to get behind the wheel.

Regarding the Forte, its ride quality is entirely satisfactory. It manages to absorb road bumps with ease, and its brakes offer reliable stopping power. Nonetheless, some drivers have noted that the steering can feel imprecise, which detracts from the overall driving experience.

When it comes to trunk space, the 2022 Elantra covers 14.2 cubic feet. This is considered average for a compact sedan. The Forte, on the other hand, has 15.3 cubic feet, which is one of the roomiest trunks in the class.

One of the critical factors to consider is the interior space that these vehicles provide. In terms of the Forte, there is a generous amount of head and legroom available in both rows. While the vehicle can technically seat up to five individuals, it's pertinent to notice that it's best suited for no more than four adults, especially for extended rides.

Similarly, the Elantra also can technically seat five but is preferable to stick to four occupants. The seats are comfortable and supportive, but the back seats are slightly less spacious. The Elantra also has a fastback roof, meaning that it slopes dramatically. Not only does that limit the amount of headroom in the back, but it also makes it a bit difficult to see out of the rear. Forward visibility is not a headache for either sedan.

As for the infotainment setups, the 2022 Forte and Elantra are very similar. They both have an 8-inch touchscreen standard, and they both have wireless versions of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Both of the entry-level models are also equipped with a four-speaker sound system.

Upper trim levels of the Forte and Elantra have a 10.25-inch touchscreen but go with wired versions of the smartphone integration tools. Similarly, both can be upgraded to sound systems with either six or eight speakers. HD radio, satellite radio, and wireless device charging are also available on both the Elantra and the Forte.

In terms of comfort and convenience features, the base models of the Elantra and Forte are relatively rudimentary. Both vehicles come with sturdy cloth upholstery and manually adjustable climate controls. However, the Elantra SEL and Forte GT-Line offer added features such as dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start. While no variant of the Forte has authentic leather upholstery, the Elantra Limited comes with this feature.

Safety

When comparing safety scores, the 2022 Elantra is preferable over the 2022 Forte. It received a score of five out of five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The score is broken down to five stars for side crash and rollover tests, and four stars for the frontal collision test.

In terms of safety protocols, the Forte received an overall score of four out of five stars. While the vehicle earned five stars for side crash testing, it received four stars for both frontal collisions and rollover testing. Furthermore, the NHTSA has alerted potential buyers to an issue where the left rear door could hit a rear passenger in a side crash.

In terms of driver assistance features, both the 2022 Elantra and Forte provide a robust list of standard equipment. Both vehicles are equipped with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. They also possess driver attention monitor as standard.

While the Forte's standard safety features list concludes with the driver assistance features mentioned earlier, the Elantra goes the extra mile. In addition to the standard driver assistance features, it comes with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, and a rear-seat alert. The Elantra also possesses a safe exit warning property.

Automatic high beams, safe exit assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring are all available on select Forte models. Both offer cyclist detection, rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control on upper trims. Highway drive assist, a feature that uses cruise control and radar to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane and prevents speeding, is also available on the Elantra and Forte.

Which Has the Best Value?

The Forte offers an attractive starting price point of just $19,090 putting the compact sedan among some of the most budget-friendly options in its class. That being said, those willing to stretch their funds a bit more may appreciate what's available with the Elantra - for only slightly higher cost at $19,850 buyers can enjoy even greater value despite remaining within reach financially.

With the Elantra, buyers are getting much more than just a higher price tag. Standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic high beams make this an incredibly attractive option for those seeking security on the road - offering peace of mind at a reasonable cost.

If buyers are more interested in the performance-oriented versions of these sedans, the Forte is more affordable again. The Forte GT has a starting price of $23,490, while the Elantra N-Line starts out at $24,250. These vehicles make the same amount of horsepower, but the N-Line will be easier on the wallet at the gas pumps.

With the Forte or Elantra N-Line, you can get a performance sedan that won't lighten your wallet at the pump. The sportier Forte GT offers up comparable horsepower for less money than its competitor - $23,490 compared to the Elantra's starting price of $24,250. So whichever vehicle you choose; great performance without breaking budget is guaranteed.

The Elantra and Forte offer drivers many similar features, yet when it comes to fuel efficiency there is an undeniable winner. In the long run, choosing between these two vehicles could mean saving - or spending - a few hundred dollars more in gas costs over five years; $8,600 for the Elantra versus $9100 for its counterpart. But while you save on fueling up with one model, another important factor may be depreciation- how quickly your vehicle loses value after purchase: here again the Forte takes lead at losing only 7$750 of its worth compared to 8$1hundred from the Elantra's initial cost.

Minor repairs will likely need to be made to either the Elantra or the Forte. Both are estimated to cost a bit over $500 for these repairs. When it comes to the routine maintenance these sedans need, however, the Elantra wins. It has an estimated maintenance cost of $2,500, while the Forte maintenance will cost around $3,200.

Which is Better?

Both the 2022 Kia Forte and the 2022 Hyundai Elantra are captivating with their impressive efficiency, wide-ranging features, and affordable price tags. The standard technology features further add to their appeal.

Elantra has gained impressive safety scores from the NHTSA. It is also offered as a hybrid as well as with a heart-pounding 276-horsepower engine. It is also the more efficient of the two, which will save drivers money over the years. The lower projected maintenance costs are also nice.

The 2022 Kia Forte is a gripping option for price-conscious buyers, with a lower initial price than the 2022 Hyundai Elantra. Moreover, the Forte's impressive resale value makes it a smart investment. The Forte's spacious cabin and large trunk provide practicality and comfort for smaller families, making it a versatile choice.

If you're eyeing an affordable sedan, both the 2022 Hyundai Elantra and the 2022 Kia Forte are peerless options. If you prioritize space, the Forte is the way to go, with its roomy cabin and trunk. On the other hand, if you prefer a more engaging driving experience, Elantra is the better choice.