2020 BMW 3 Series vs 2020 Kia Forte

The 2020 Kia Forte GT made a notable impression with its well-crafted design and strategic enhancements that solidified its place as a sport-sedan. New for 2020 and at the top of the Forte lineup, the GT version introduced features like a turbocharged engine, a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust, larger front brakes, and impressive 18-inch machined-finish wheels. These additions set it apart from the standard Forte models. The Forte GT didn't scream performance on first glance but hinted at its capabilities with subtle cosmetic changes. These included revised bumpers, a black lip spoiler, dual exhaust outlets flanking a sporty valence panel, giving it a mature and understated aggression. This meant that in muted colors, the Forte GT could fly under the radar, even among law enforcement, which added to its appeal.

The interior of the Forte GT complemented its exterior transformation. A mix of red seat piping and interior stitching, a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, and gloss black trim with polished metallic elements created a modern, sporty environment. Soft-touch materials were strategically placed, imparting a sense of quality typically reserved for higher-end models. Despite this, the Forte remained an appealing practical choice due to its industry-standard warranty and competitive starting price of $17,890. However, to get the lowest price, one had to opt for a manual transmission, with the CVT adding $900. The EX trim offered more features at $22,090, while the performance-focused Forte GT began at $22,490, with the option to switch to a manual transmission for an additional $600. Fully loaded, the Forte GT with the GT2 Package priced out at $26,085, including its destination charge.

In comparison, the 2020 BMW 3 Series evoked a different emotion. Its design metaphorically linked it to the majestic humpbacks of the Atlantic, with its lidded headlights, curved hood, and oversized grille giving it an aquatic and slightly intimidating presence. Criticisms were few as the 3 Series, particularly the new M340i trim, offered an exhilarating driving experience that often justified its high base price of $40,750. The M340i started at $56,000, with top-tier models equipped with xDrive all-wheel-drive priced at $69,570, including substantial optional features worth nearly $14,000.

The interior of the BMW 3 Series aligned with its luxurious exterior, offering a combination of high-quality materials and seating options. Our test car featured off-white Ivory leather contrasting with the black cabin and Tanzanite Blue exterior paint. BMW seemed to emphasize quality, with the interior exuding an air of sophistication fitting its premium positioning.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT stood out with its turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, which was borrowed from models like the Optima, Soul, and Seltos. It delivered 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 pound-feet of torque between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm, a significant upgrade over the 147-hp 2.0-liter engine in other Fortes. The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) connected the power to the front wheels. Unlike traditional automatics, the DCT felt different but notably well-calibrated in the Forte GT, showing minimal hesitation.

The Forte GT's sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust, larger front brakes, and 18-inch aluminum wheels equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport summer performance tires made it clear that this car was built for drivers who appreciated spirited driving. Driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with each offering distinct characteristics to suit different driving styles.

Despite its turbocharged engine's modest power, the Forte GT offered a rewarding driving experience. In town, it provided a connected ride and responsive brakes, albeit with a firmer suspension. On open roads, particularly through twisty hilly routes, the car proved highly capable and agile. While it did exhibit some understeer and slight brake fade after strenuous driving, the vehicle's overall performance left a positive impression, further validated by the influence of Albert Biermann, former head of BMW's M division, now leading Kia’s performance vehicle development.

The 2020 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i, raised the bar with its driving dynamics. The M340i was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Combined with BMW's rear-biased xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a rear M Sport differential, the M340i delivered exhilarating acceleration, clocking 0-60 mph in a rapid 4.1 seconds.

BMW's commitment to driving pleasure was further exemplified by its precise steering and robust M Sport brakes. Though loyal driving enthusiasts might miss the manual gearbox, the standard 8-speed automatic transmission proved exceptionally responsive, especially when paired with paddle shifters. The M340i’s structural stiffness, new lift-related dampers, and available M Adaptive underpinnings ensured it could handle anything thrown its way with aplomb.

Inside, the Kia Forte GT offered sport seats with cloth inserts and Sofino leatherette bolsters, which transitioned to full Sofino leatherette with the GT2 Package. The 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat provided excellent support through corners and during long drives. Additionally, the Forte GT offered a height-adjustable front passenger seat and rear seats that provided adequate comfort and support, along with air conditioning vents for rear passengers. The Forte GT featured a commendable 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, comparable to midsize sedans, which was made even easier to access thanks to the Smart Trunk technology. Interior storage solutions were generous, including a wireless smartphone charging pad, storage in door panels, a large glovebox, and a center console.

The BMW 3 Series' interior impressed with its high-quality leather front seats, which offered both comfort and support during spirited driving. Our M340i xDrive test vehicle's seats came equipped with heaters and a heated steering wheel, though ventilated seats were not available, a notable omission during hot weather testing. Rear seat access was slightly awkward, but once seated, passengers enjoyed excellent support and comfort. The trunk capacity was officially 17 cubic feet. However, its deep yet narrow layout made it less practical than the capacity figure might suggest, easily holding less luggage than a typical family sedan.

The 2020 Kia Forte came with an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, positioned for easy viewing and operation. The system featured essential, user-friendly controls, including knobs and shortcut buttons. Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera were standard across all trims. Higher trims like the EX and GT included additional features like SiriusXM satellite radio and connected services through Kia’s UVO technology. Although it lacked an embedded navigation system, smartphone projection made this a non-issue. The GT2 Package added an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, which, while better than the standard 6-speaker setup, fell short of premium expectations partly due to cabin noise.

BMW's iDrive infotainment system, in its latest iteration for the 2020 3 Series, was highly advanced compared to its original version from two decades ago. It featured a touchscreen, natural voice recognition, gesture control, and the familiar console knob and buttons for multifunctional control. The system's touchscreen interface was highly intuitive, offering easy navigation through menus akin to a smartphone. Optional gesture control added a novelty factor, allowing for volume adjustment and station changes with simple hand motions. The voice recognition system functioned commendably, accepting natural commands for navigation, climate control, stereo operations, and more. Additionally, the head-up display could be seen even when wearing polarized sunglasses, a notable improvement.

The 2020 Kia Forte earned recognition as a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It came equipped with an array of Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS), especially when outfitted with the GT2 Package. The ADAS offerings included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. However, the emergency braking system operated effectively only at lower speeds, and the adaptive cruise control could not bring the car to a complete stop. The lane-keeping systems worked well but disengaged abruptly if hands were not detected on the wheel. The Forte also featured UVO’s 911 Connect for automatic collision notification and parental alerts for speed, curfew, and geographical limits.

For the BMW 3 Series, fully equipping the car with BMW’s latest ADAS required adding two Driving Assistance option packages. While effective, some systems lacked the smoothness expected. The lane-keeping assist could be rather abrupt, aligning with BMW's philosophy that drivers should stay engaged. Should active safety features fail to prevent a collision, the 3 Series offered strong passive safety, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS when equipped with adaptive full LED headlights.