Used Kia Forte for Sale nearSan Luis Obispo, 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 $16,035, and its nationwide average price reached a low of $15,449 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 marks from owners across the model range, and the all-generations owner rating is 4.55/5 across every model year in the data.

Owners consistently praise its stylish design, comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and overall value. Across the years, you also see recurring appreciation for its reliability, modern technology, and safety features.

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

The main trade-offs called out in expert reviews are the underwhelming base engine, lower crash-test scores on some years, and cabin materials that can feel a bit basic in places.

31.5% of listings are priced as good or great deals.

Are Kia Forte models reliable?

Owners consistently describe the Kia Forte as a dependable, efficient compact sedan with comfortable everyday manners and useful tech. Expert feedback also reinforces its value, comfort, and well-rounded character across the model range.

• 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 strong maintenance records.

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

Across all model years, at 73% 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; GT-Line and above receive a 10.25-inch display

Which Kia Forte trim should I buy?

The 2023 Kia Forte offers these trims:

• LX: The entry trim starts the lineup with the 2.0-liter engine, CVT, and the core infotainment setup. It suits you if you want the lowest-cost way into the Forte.
• LXS: This trim adds the optional blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic warning and a safe passenger exit system, making it a smart value step for shoppers who want more driver-assist coverage.
• GT-Line: This is the best-value trim for many buyers because it adds the 10.25-inch display, wireless charging pad, navigation, and a six-speaker audio system.
• GT: The GT brings the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, available seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or six-speed manual, and a sport-tuned suspension for the most performance-focused Forte experience.
• Top GT: This trim adds 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 the most popular used picks because they give you the broadest selection and the strongest mix of pricing and deal availability. That makes it easier to compare listings and find the right Forte for your budget.

What is the Kia Forte's resale value?

Most Forte model years are down year over year, which is good news if you're shopping used and want to benefit from softer pricing. The largest drops are concentrated in older and mid-cycle years, while the newest models are changing more gradually. Overall, the table points to a market where buyers have room to find value across several model years.

The 2023, 2024, 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 −1.01% versus a year ago, and the 2022 model is at −7.2%.
• Deal availability: The 2023 model has 33.6% good and great deals, and the 2022 model has 32.8%.
• Sweet-spot year: The 2023 model has the most listings at a current average price of $18,550. The Kia Forte offers a comfortable ride, stylish design, and strong everyday value.

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 September 15, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.