2020 Kia Forte vs 2020 BMW 2 Series

The 2020 Kia Forte GT was a standout in its lineup, featuring a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission, sport-tuned suspension, and active exhaust. It also boasted larger front brakes and 18-inch wheels, setting it apart from other Fortes. The exterior styling was subtly aggressive, with revised bumpers, a black lip spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets, giving it a sporty yet understated appearance. Inside, the Forte GT offered a modern look with red seat piping, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and gloss black trim, all contributing to a sense of quality and sophistication.

In contrast, the 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe introduced a new model to the lineup, diverging from the traditional two-door coupe and convertible. It shared its platform with the BMW X1 and X2, as well as the Mini Clubman and Countryman, featuring a front-wheel-drive bias. The exterior design echoed the larger 8 Series, with swooping headlights and an angular twin-kidney grille. However, the rear design struggled to maintain the aesthetic of the two-door coupe. Inside, the 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a modern cockpit with solid fit-and-finish, though it lacked the elegance of some competitors.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT was equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 pound-feet of torque between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. This was a significant upgrade from the 147-hp 2.0-liter engine in other Forte models. The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission provided power to the front wheels, offering a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Forte GT featured a sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust, and larger brakes, enhancing its performance capabilities. It offered driving modes like Normal, Sport, and Smart, allowing drivers to tailor the experience to their preferences.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series 228i Gran Coupe came with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power was routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels or xDrive all-wheel drive. While the engine was refined, it exhibited noticeable turbo lag. The Gran Coupe offered Drive Mode selectors, including Sport, Comfort, and Eco Pro modes. The M235i variant provided more power with 301 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. However, the Gran Coupe's front-wheel-drive layout lacked the natural feel of the rear-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT featured front sport seats with cloth inserts and Sofino simulated 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 a welcome addition on chilly mornings. The backseat offered good comfort with a tall cushion and proper support. The Forte GT's Smart Trunk technology allowed for hands-free access, revealing a spacious 15.3 cubic feet of trunk space. Interior storage was generous, with a wireless smartphone charging pad and ample storage compartments.

In contrast, the 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered supportive front seats, but rear-seat legroom was limited, making it suitable for one or two passengers. The cockpit layout was straightforward, with easy-to-locate climate controls. However, the cupholders and center console were on the smaller side. The 2 Series Gran Coupe provided 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space, surpassing some competitors in the small luxury car segment.

The 2020 Kia Forte came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, conveniently positioned for easy reference. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The Forte EX and GT models also offered SiriusXM satellite radio and connected services through Kia's Your Voice (UVO) technology. The GT model featured an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, which provided better sound quality than the standard setup, although it struggled with ambient noise.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe featured a 6.5-inch iDrive touchscreen with touch functionality and Android Auto. The Gran Coupe also offered wireless Apple CarPlay for added convenience. Our test model included a fully digital instrument panel with a customizable navigation display, tachometer, and speedometer. The available head-up display (HUD) provided additional customization options, enhancing the driving experience. BMW's driver-assist systems were seamless, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning.

The 2020 Kia Forte was recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). The GT model with the GT2 Package included features such as lane-keeping and lane-centering assist systems, although they required the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel. The Forte GT also featured 911 Connect, an automatic collision notification system, and allowed owners to program alerts related to speed, curfew, and geographical boundaries.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series offered standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and a backup camera. Additional available safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assistance, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The driver-assist systems were noted for their seamless operation.