Used Kia Forte for Sale nearSanta Cruz, 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 $16,004, and its lowest point over the past year was $15,450. 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 is a strong used-car pick if you want value, comfort, and everyday practicality. The all-generations owner rating is 4.55/5 across every model year in the data.

Owners consistently praise the Forte for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and strong fuel economy. Reliability and overall value also come up often, along with modern tech and safety features that make it easy to live with day to day.

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

The main trade-offs that show up in recent expert coverage are the base engine's modest performance, some road noise, and cabin materials that can feel a bit plain in places.

32.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.

Are Kia Forte models reliable?

Owners and experts repeatedly highlight the Forte's value, fuel efficiency, comfort, and everyday usability. Across the model years in the data, it also earns praise for its modern tech and practical character.

• 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 73.1% 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: Standard driver assistance safety features on all 2023 Forte models include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor.
• Infotainment: Supporting Forte trims come standard with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen while the GT-Line and above receive a 10.25-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included with all models.

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 standard driver-assistance suite. It suits shoppers who want the lowest-cost way into the Forte.
• LXS: Adds the optional blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic warning and a safe passenger exit system, making it a smart step up for buyers who want more confidence features.
• GT-Line: Brings the 10.25-inch display, a navigation system, a six-speaker audio setup, and a wireless charging pad. This is the best-value trim for many shoppers because it adds a lot of everyday convenience.
• GT: Adds the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, available seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or six-speed manual, and a sport-tuned suspension for buyers who want the most engaging Forte.
• GT Manual: The enthusiast choice within the GT lineup, pairing the turbo engine with the six-speed manual for maximum driver involvement.
• GT Automatic: The easier-to-live-with GT setup, pairing the turbo engine with the dual-clutch automatic.
• Top GT: 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 draw the most attention because they offer a strong mix of newer features, broad availability, and pricing that still leaves room for value-conscious shoppers. More listings also give you more chances to compare condition, mileage, and deal quality.

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 by smaller amounts. That pattern suggests recent Fortes are still in demand, but buyers can still find meaningful value across much of the lineup.

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

Standard driver assistance safety features on all 2023 Forte models include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor.

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 −1.12% versus a year ago, and the 2022 model is at −7.68%.
• Deal availability: The 2023 model has 34.1% good and great deals, and the 2022 model has 33.5%.
• Sweet-spot year: The 2023 model has the most listings at a current average price of $18,451. The Kia Forte offers a comfortable ride 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 22, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.