Used Kia Forte for Sale nearBakersfield, CA

How much does the Kia Forte cost in today's market?

Used Kia Forte prices span a wide range depending on model year. Here's what the market looks like right now:

The Kia Forte's current nationwide average price is $15,626, and its nationwide average price reached a low of $15,452 over the past year.

Recently, prices have come down for the 2022, 2023, and 2024 models, making now a good time to shop recent model years.

Is the Kia Forte a good car?

Yes — the Kia Forte earns strong owner approval across its long run, and the all-generations owner rating is 4.55/5 across every model year in the data.

Owners repeatedly praise its stylish design, reliability, fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and overall value for money. Many also like the modern technology and safety features, along with the car's solid handling.

Expert reviews rate the 2020 and 2019 models among the highest across all years.

The main trade-offs called out in recent expert reviews are the underwhelming base engine, interior quality that can feel a bit cheap in places, and road noise.

33.7% of listings are priced as good or great deals.

Are Kia Forte models reliable?

Owners and experts consistently point to the Forte's value, fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and everyday usability as recurring strengths. The car also earns praise for its safety features and solid handling across multiple model years.

• Owners rate the Kia Forte between 3.25 and 5.0 out of 5 stars across all model years in the data.

For used buyers, long-term ownership risk is best managed by choosing a well-kept example with a clean history and a strong maintenance record.

What should I look for when buying a used Kia Forte?

Across all model years, at 72.7% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

Older model years carry meaningfully higher accident rates, so always verify the vehicle history report on pre-2022 models.

Key things to evaluate:

• Safety package: forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor
• Infotainment: an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Which Kia Forte trim should I buy?

The 2023 Kia Forte offers these trims:

• LX: the value-focused starting point with the 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the base 2.0-liter engine; best for shoppers who want the lowest entry price and strong everyday value.
• LXS: adds the optional blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic warning and a safe passenger exit system, making it a smart step up if you want more driver-assist coverage.
• GT-Line: brings the 10.25-inch display, wireless charging pad, navigation, and a six-speaker audio system; this is the best-value trim for many buyers because it adds a more upscale tech setup.
• GT: upgrades to the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, available seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or six-speed manual, and sport-tuned suspension; choose this one if you want the most performance.
• Top GT trims: add adaptive cruise control, pedestrian/cyclist detection, and rear parking proximity sensors as standard.

What Kia Forte do most buyers choose?

The Kia Forte years with the most listings are 2023, 2024, and 2022.

These higher-volume years tend to be popular because they give you more inventory to compare, more pricing flexibility, and a better chance of finding the trim and equipment mix you want.

What is the Kia Forte's resale value?

Most Forte model years are moving lower year over year, which can work in your favor if you're shopping used. The biggest drops are concentrated in older years, while the newest models are changing only slightly.

The 2024 model year is holding steady, with prices close to flat year-over-year.

The 2024, 2023, and 2014 model years have held their value best, with the smallest year-over-year price changes.

Is the Kia Forte safe?

• 2023: 5/10
• 2022: 7/10
• 2020: 8/10
• 2019: 9/10
• 2017: 8/10
• 2015: 6/10
• 2014: 8/10

For the safest used buy, the 2019 model posts the highest confirmed score of 9/10.

Should I buy a used Kia Forte now?

Buy now if:

• Price trend: The 2023 model is at −1.63% versus a year ago, and the 2022 model is at −8.69%.
• Deal availability: The 2023 model has 35.8% good and great deals, and the 2022 model has 35%.
• Sweet-spot year: The 2023 model has the most listings at a current average price of $18,147. The Kia Forte offers a comfortable ride and strong value, which helps make it an easy daily driver to live with.

If you're buying used today, the 2023 model year offers the best mix of value and availability.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 13, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.