2019 Kia Optima vs 2020 Kia Forte

The 2019 Kia Optima, while not as revolutionary in design as its predecessors, still managed to capture attention with its signature tiger-nose grille, fender-vent trim, and optional black panoramic glass roof. It offered a range of trim levels, allowing buyers to find a style that suited their preferences and budget. However, the limited availability of interior color options, except for black, posed a challenge for those seeking a specific aesthetic. The Optima's pricing ranged from $22,900 for the base LX to $35,790 for the SX Turbo with the Limited Package, with a plug-in hybrid model exceeding $42,000. The SX Turbo trim, without the Limited Package, featured a sleek blacked-out exterior, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and a sporty interior with black leather and red accents, priced at $33,505.

In contrast, the 2020 Kia Forte GT introduced a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission, sport-tuned suspension, and active exhaust, distinguishing it from other Forte models. Its understated design, with revised bumpers, a black lip spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets, gave it a mature yet sporty appearance. Inside, the Forte GT boasted a modern look with red seat piping, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and gloss black trim. The transmission shifter provided a quality feel, enhancing the driving experience. The Forte GT's pricing started at $22,490, with the option to switch to a 6-speed manual transmission for an additional $600. The GT2 Package, priced at $2,200, added significant value, bringing the total cost of the test car to $26,085.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered a variety of powertrains, including a 185-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder for the LX and S trims, and a 178-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder for the EX Turbo. The hybrid models provided 41 mpg in combined driving, while the plug-in hybrid offered 28 miles of electric range. The SX Turbo trim featured a 245-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering smooth and linear acceleration. A 6-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with four driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The SX Turbo's unique rack-mounted steering system provided better feel, though it lacked crispness on mountain roads. The sport-tuned suspension offered a firm ride, but excess body motion reduced confidence on challenging terrain.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT, equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivered 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission efficiently transferred power to the front wheels. The Forte GT's sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust, and larger brakes enhanced its performance. Driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with the latter adjusting to driving behavior. The Forte GT's turbocharged engine provided ample power, and the DCT's telepathic gear selection impressed. The car's firm ride and responsive steering made it enjoyable on curvy roads, though its nose-heavy weight bias was evident. The brakes showed slight fade during aggressive driving, but overall, the Forte GT's performance was commendable.

The 2019 Kia Optima excelled as a daily driver, offering comfort, simplicity, and ample storage. Its controls were logically arranged, with buttons and knobs reducing reliance on the touchscreen. The spacious interior featured a 15.9-cubic-foot trunk and numerous storage cubbies. Front seats offered power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, with the Limited Package adding Nappa leather and other luxury touches. Backseat legroom was impressive, with good thigh support and a comfortable backrest angle. The Smart Trunk feature, while convenient, could be inadvertently triggered, but an interior handle kept fingers clean when closing the trunk.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT featured front sport seats with cloth inserts and Sofino leather bolsters, with full Sofino leatherette available in the GT2 Package. The 10-way power adjustable driver's seat provided excellent support, and the heated front seats were appreciated on cold mornings. Backseat comfort was good, with a tall cushion and proper support. The Smart Trunk technology offered hands-free convenience, though it could open unintentionally. The Forte GT's 15.3 cubic-foot cargo area was spacious, and interior storage was generous, with a wireless smartphone charging pad and ample compartments.

The 2019 Kia Optima came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring UVO technology, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The S and EX Turbo trims added satellite radio and UVO eServices, which relied on the smartphone's data plan. The SX Turbo trim included a navigation system, HD Radio, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with flexible voice-recognition technology.

The 2020 Kia Forte's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system was positioned for easy reference, with stereo knobs and shortcut buttons minimizing interaction. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The EX and GT trims added SiriusXM satellite radio and UVO technology. The GT2 Package included an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, which performed well despite the car's interior noise.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and collision-avoidance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were particularly effective. The Optima received top safety ratings from the IIHS, with a 4-star rating for front passenger protection in a frontal-impact collision from the federal government.

The 2020 Kia Forte, a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, included numerous ADAS features, with the GT2 Package offering the full suite. The automatic emergency braking system worked at lower speeds, and the adaptive cruise control did not bring the car to a full stop. The lane-keeping and lane-centering assist systems were effective, though they required hands on the wheel. The Forte GT also featured 911 Connect and programmable alerts for speed, curfew, and geographical boundaries.