Used 2021 Kia Forte for Sale near Louisiana
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Aurora Black Pearl
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 29,427
- Stock #:
- 17P49000
- VIN:
- 3KPF54AD3NE449000
2022 Kia Forte
GT-Line FWD
29,427 mi
$21,707
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 54,886
- Stock #:
- N489761
- VIN:
- 3KPF54AD9NE489761
2022 Kia Forte
GT-Line FWD
54,886 mi
$15,884
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Clear White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 103,754
- Stock #:
- LR1761A1
- VIN:
- 3KPF34AD4LE250329
2020 Kia Forte
GT Line FWD
103,754 mi
$13,032
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Deep Sea Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 58,225
- Stock #:
- 301
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD5ME280301
2021 Kia Forte
LXS FWD
58,225 mi
$11,471
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 105,490
- Stock #:
- NW408468
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD3ME408468
2021 Kia Forte
LXS FWD
105,490 mi
$10,570
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 126,594
- Stock #:
- 07765
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD8ME307765
2021 Kia Forte
LXS FWD
126,594 mi
$9,906
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 137,886
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD1ME330952
2021 Kia Forte
LXS FWD
137,886 mi
$9,294
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Snow White Pearl
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 62,009
- Stock #:
- 260697A
- VIN:
- 3KPF34AD1ME311010
2021 Kia Forte
GT Line FWD
62,009 mi
$18,169
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 201 hp 1.6L I4
- Exterior color:
- Currant Red
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 83,641
- Stock #:
- 26C583A
- VIN:
- 3KPF44AC3LE240122
-$1,000
2020 Kia Forte
GT FWD
83,641 mi
$13,990
$13,644
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 45,319
- Stock #:
- 258460
- VIN:
- 3KPF34AD9LE258460
2020 Kia Forte
GT Line FWD
45,319 mi
$15,650
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 201 hp 1.6L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 81,198
- Stock #:
- WYC-274114
- VIN:
- 3KPF44AC7ME274114
2021 Kia Forte
GT FWD
81,198 mi
$15,233
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 9,690
- Stock #:
- 28532222
- VIN:
- 3KPF34AD5LE248976
2020 Kia Forte
GT Line FWD
9,690 mi
$20,797
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 41,822
- Stock #:
- 29124008
- VIN:
- 3KPF34ADXME323446
2021 Kia Forte
GT Line FWD
41,822 mi
$18,797
About 2021 Kia Forte
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 201 hp 1.6L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Manual
- Mileage:
- 51,719
- Stock #:
- 70193538
- VIN:
- 3KPF44AC2NE492737
2022 Kia Forte
GT FWD
51,719 mi
$20,297
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 23,034
- Stock #:
- 29150254
- VIN:
- 3KPF24ADXNE430114
2022 Kia Forte
FE FWD
23,034 mi
$18,998
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 55,934
- Stock #:
- 29018535
- VIN:
- 3KPF54AD2NE456990
2022 Kia Forte
GT-Line FWD
55,934 mi
$19,147
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 201 hp 1.6L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 28 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Manual
- Mileage:
- 41,796
- Stock #:
- 70214681
- VIN:
- 3KPF44AC9ME274342
2021 Kia Forte
GT FWD
41,796 mi
$19,797
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gravity Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 55,818
- Stock #:
- LT1037
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD6NE441644
-$900
2022 Kia Forte
FE FWD
55,818 mi
$15,542
$14,642
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Steel Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 67,201
- Stock #:
- 17397309A
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD7NE424237
2022 Kia Forte
LXS FWD
67,201 mi
$18,734
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 34 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 70,691
- Stock #:
- 492410
- VIN:
- 3KPF54AD6NE492410
2022 Kia Forte
GT-Line FWD
70,691 mi
$15,480
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 36 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 116,242
- Stock #:
- 101585
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD9LE235330
2020 Kia Forte
FE FWD
116,242 mi
$9,206
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 201 hp 1.6L I4
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Manual
- Mileage:
- 47,506
- Stock #:
- 14546
- VIN:
- 3KPF44AC9NE476938
2022 Kia Forte
GT FWD
47,506 mi
$18,521
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Kia
- Model:
- Forte
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 147 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 36 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 74,354
- Stock #:
- 2183
- VIN:
- 3KPF24AD4ME345817
2021 Kia Forte
FE FWD
74,354 mi
$13,924
Overview
The Kia Forte was completely redesigned for the 2019 model year, and it carries over into 2021 largely unchanged.
With its five available trims, Kia’s compact sedan really spans the range from economy to enthusiast vehicle. The base trim, FE, is shortest on frills but most affordable. LXS is a little more refined and adds some creature comforts. The GT-Line model gets sportier and gains some premium features, EX is the highest-end version in terms of luxury appointments, and GT is the real driver’s car.
The Kia Forte lineup comprises two different engines: a 2.0-liter inline-four that makes 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque is standard on FE, LXS, GT-Line, and EX trims, while a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four that makes 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque is standard on the top-of-the-line, performance-focused GT trim. Engine upgrades are not available for 2021.
Kia acknowledges the dichotomy of the stick-shift by making the 6-speed manual transmission standard on the FE, for cost savings, and optional on the GT, for a sporty driving experience. (Standard for the GT is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission which is only available for this trim.) Kia’s i-VT continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard on LXS, GT-Line, and EX trims, and it’s an available upgrade for FE.
Each Kia Forte trim has a dedicated wheel style. While every other trim gets alloy wheels, the base FE gets 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps, no doubt as a further cost-saving measure. LXS Fortes get 16-inch machine-finish alloy wheels, GT-Line models’ wheels are 17 inches with a graphite finish, EXS trims’ are 17 inches with a machine finish, and GT trims’ are 18 inches with a machine-finish.
Variations continue inside. FE and LXS trims get cloth seats, while Kia adds leatherette side bolsters and contrast stitching for GT-Line and EXS. Forte GTs get artificial leather seats. A 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support is optional on GT-Line and GT and standard on EX. Heated and ventilated front seats are standard on EX and optional on GT. FE does not get the 60/40-split folding rear seats, but every other trim does. Dual-zone climate control is standard on the EX trim only.
The gearshift knob in the sportier GT-Line and GT trims is leather-wrapped, an upgrade over the PVC version found in other trims. A leather-wrapped steering wheel is standard in the top three trims, and for GT and GT-Line, it is sportily styled with a flat bottom.
An 8-inch touchscreen display with rear-view camera is standard in all Kia Fortes. A version that includes satellite radio and Kia’s UVO infotainment system is optional on GT-Line and standard on GT, and a version with HD Radio and Kia’s top-of-the-line UVO Link system, which includes navigation, is standard on EX. A 4-speaker sound system is standard on FE and LXS while a 6-speaker system is standard on GT-Line and up. An 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system is available as an optional upgrade for GT-Line and up.
Forward-collision warning, forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and driver-attention warning are all standard on every 2021 Kia Forte. Lane-change assist, blind-spot collision warning, and rear cross-traffic collision warning are standard on GT-Line trims and up (though some features are not compatible with the manual transmission that can be optioned on the GT trim). High-beam assist is standard for GT-Line, and parking distance warning – reverse, and smart cruise control are available options for that trim only.
The 2021 Kia Forte FE starts at $17,890. The LXS is priced from $19,390, GT-Line from $20,490, and EX from $23,090, and the range-topping Kia Forte GT starts at $22,790.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
4.7 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Carlos B
Reviewed a 2021 Kia Forte on Jan 27, 2025
Good economical vehicle for daily driving. The vehicle has basic needs for modern day driving. Good basic manufacturer model warranty and dependable usage.
Steve R
Reviewed a 2021 Kia Forte on Mar 14, 2021
The Kia Forte rated by JD Powers with best initial quality of any compact sedan. It offers Apple Car Play/ Android Auto, & has safety features at a price no other manufacturer can come close to. It is the best value compact sedan period!
Patrick M
Reviewed a 2021 Kia Forte on Jan 23, 2024
A base model car like this is missing nothing else. Apple CarPlay and Android CarPlay being supported are my best features found is this car.. The backup camera is second to none so I give this car a thumbs up.
Dan B
Reviewed a 2021 Kia Forte on Jan 22, 2022
Good value. Compare to hyundai elantra Good safety rating. Fun to drive.
2021 Kia Forte Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| EX FWD | $23,090 |
| FE FWD | $17,890 |
| GT FWD | $22,790 |
| GT Line FWD | $20,490 |
| LXS FWD | $19,390 |
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
2021 Kia Forte Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 2021 Kia Forte prices has changed over time.
See more price trends2021 Kia Forte Pricing Analysis
Pricing by Popular US Cities
Market Area: Nationwide
Key Insights
- Highest Prices in Philadelphia: The city commands the highest average price at $15,651, likely due to higher demand and lower inventory.
- Lowest Prices in New York: With an average price of $12,320, New York offers the best value, suggesting a more competitive market or higher inventory levels.
- Inventory Variation: Cities like Los Angeles (130 listings) and Chicago (110 listings) show moderate pricing, indicating stable demand and supply dynamics.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA | 108 | $15,651 |
| Chicago, IL | 110 | $14,185 |
| Dallas, TX | 104 | $13,646 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 130 | $13,502 |
| Miami, FL | 86 | $13,054 |
| Houston, TX | 109 | $12,936 |
| Washington, DC | 123 | $13,028 |
| Atlanta, GA | 129 | $12,924 |
| Boston, MA | 83 | $14,095 |
| New York, NY | 113 | $12,320 |
Pricing by Trim Packages
Key Insights
- LXS FWD Dominates Inventory: The LXS FWD trim leads with 3,082 listings, indicating strong demand for this base model.
- Price Range Across Trims: The GT FWD trim, priced at $22,790, is the most expensive, reflecting its enhanced features and performance.
- Fuel Efficiency Across Trims: The FE FWD trim offers the best fuel economy with 31 MPG city, appealing to cost-conscious buyers.
Trim-Level Details
| Trim | Listings | MSRP | Drivetrain | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LXS FWD | 3082 | $19,390 | FWD | 2.0L 147 hp I4 |
| GT FWD | 597 | $22,790 | FWD | 1.6L 201 hp I4 |
| GT Line FWD | 260 | $20,490 | FWD | 2.0L 147 hp I4 |
| FE FWD | 214 | $17,890 | FWD | 2.0L 147 hp I4 |
| EX FWD | 76 | $23,090 | FWD | 2.0L 147 hp I4 |
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- Recent Models Retain Value: The 2024 Kia Forte is priced at $19,204, only 3.9% below MSRP, indicating strong demand for newer models.
- Significant Depreciation for Older Models: The 2016 Kia Forte shows a steep decline, priced at $7,792, reflecting a 51.3% drop from its original MSRP.
- Best Value in Mid-Range Years: The 2020 Kia Forte offers a balance of price and features, with an average price of $13,395, down 25.0% from MSRP.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Original MSRP | Avg Price | Price vs MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Kia Forte | $19,990 | $19,204 | -3.9% |
| 2023 Kia Forte | $19,690 | $18,512 | -6.0% |
| 2022 Kia Forte | $19,090 | $16,893 | -11.5% |
| 2020 Kia Forte | $17,890 | $13,395 | -25.0% |
| 2019 Kia Forte | $17,790 | $12,004 | -32.3% |
| 2018 Kia Forte | $16,800 | $10,021 | -40.3% |
| 2017 Kia Forte | $16,600 | $9,364 | -43.7% |
| 2016 Kia Forte | $15,990 | $7,792 | -51.3% |
| 2015 Kia Forte | $15,890 | $7,304 | -54.0% |
| 2014 Kia Forte | $15,900 | $7,235 | -54.5% |
| 2013 Kia Forte | $15,400 | $5,781 | -62.5% |
| 2012 Kia Forte | $15,200 | $5,831 | -61.6% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 10, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
How much does the 2021 Kia Forte cost?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Average Price | $14,274 |
| Year-Round Low | $14,116.47 |
| Year-Round High | $15,231.46 |
| Average Price a Year Ago | $15,232 |
| Change vs. Last Year | −6.29% |
Prices have softened 6.29% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.
With 1,613 listings available, you have a solid amount of inventory to compare before you buy.
If you find a listing below $14,116.47, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.
Is the 2021 Kia Forte a good car?
Yes — the 4.67/5 user rating points to strong owner satisfaction.
Drivers repeatedly praise its value, fuel efficiency, and modern technology features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Reviewers also highlight its safety ratings and say it is fun to drive.
With 28.0% of listings marked as good or great deals, you have a meaningful share of the market to shop from.
Is the 2021 Kia Forte reliable?
Owners rate it 4.67/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.
The review summary also points to a car that owners find dependable in everyday use, with value and fuel efficiency reinforcing the sense that it can be a trouble-free choice for regular commuting. The repeated praise for its modern tech and overall satisfaction suggests buyers tend to feel confident keeping it for the long term.
For used buyers, the main ownership risk is less about broad dissatisfaction and more about finding a well-kept example that has been maintained consistently.
What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Kia Forte?
At 68.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
You should run a vehicle history report before you commit, then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection on any car that looks especially clean or unusually well priced. Focus on condition details that matter most in daily use, including signs of prior bodywork, uneven wear, and how well the interior and technology features have held up.
Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Kia Forte?
This is a moderate market, so you can be selective without expecting every listing to be a bargain.
- Deal availability: 28.0% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Inventory: There are 1,613 listings available.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 6.29% compared with last year.
- Clean inventory: 68.6% of listings are accident-free.
If you find a listing below $14,116.47, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.
What is the 2021 Kia Forte's resale value?
The current average of $14,274 sits slightly below last year's $15,232.
That softer pricing can help you buy at a more favorable entry point, but it also means future resale gains may be more limited if the market stays soft. If you plan to sell later, condition and mileage will matter even more because buyers will have plenty of comparable listings to choose from.
Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.67/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.
Should I buy a 2021 Kia Forte or consider a different year?
If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:
Choose the 2021 if:
- 28.0% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- At 68.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 6.29% compared with last year.
- Owners rate it 4.67/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
Consider the 2020 if:
- At $12,840, the 2020 costs less than the current year's $14,274 average.
- It offers strong value with a more engaging driving character.
Consider the 2022 if:
- At $17,080, the 2022 costs more than the current year's $14,274 average.
- It adds sharper styling and updated infotainment and driver-assist tech.
The bottom line: The 2021 is the best all-around pick if you want a balanced mix of price, owner satisfaction, and market availability. If your priority is spending less, the 2020 is the better value-focused alternative. If you want newer features and are willing to pay more, the 2022 is the upgrade path to consider.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 4, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
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