2020 Kia Forte vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Kia Forte GT, new for the year, featured a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission (DCT), sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust, larger front brakes, and 18-inch wheels. Styling modifications set it apart from other Fortes, and the interior boasted enhancements to solidify its sport-sedan credentials. Despite its performance potential, the Forte GT maintained a tasteful and mature appearance, with subtle details like revised bumpers, a black lip spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets. Inside, the combination of surface tones, soft-touch materials, red seat piping, and gloss black trim created a modern look, while the solid transmission shifter added a sense of quality.

In contrast, the 2020 Subaru WRX, a performance variant of the Impreza, had a wider stance, lower front splitter, rear deck spoiler, and functional air intake. The STI version added a large rear wing and aerodynamic components, making it the most aggressively styled vehicle in Subaru's lineup. Despite its racy touches, the non-STI WRX could be a sleeper, with a cabin that might seem pedestrian to some. The WRX's trim levels—Base, Premium, and Limited—offered various features, from 17-inch alloy wheels and a 6.5-inch touchscreen to leather upholstery and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The STI trims added even more performance-oriented features like 19-inch wheels and Brembo brakes.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT was equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 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 Fortes. The power was delivered to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), which was well-behaved and responsive. The Forte GT also offered a 6-speed manual gearbox, which included many GT2 package features. The car's sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust system, larger front brakes, and 18-inch wheels with optional Michelin Pilot Sport tires contributed to its engaging driving experience. The turbocharged engine provided ample power, and the DCT's precise gear selection enhanced the driving experience. The Forte GT handled well, with a firm ride quality and responsive steering, making it enjoyable to drive on curvy roads.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, generating 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power was sent to symmetrical all-wheel drive through a standard six-speed manual transmission, with an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) available. The CVT included Subaru’s SI-DRIVE with multiple drive modes and paddle shifters with simulated gears. The AWD systems varied based on transmission choice, with the manual offering a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution and the CVT providing a 45:55 split. The manual transmission was praised for its precise feedback and smooth clutch pedal, making it ideal for performance driving. The WRX's power delivery was impressive, with minimal turbo lag and excellent cornering capabilities. The WRX STI, with its 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, 310 horsepower, and 290 pound-feet of torque, offered even more performance, but at the cost of a stiffer ride.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT's interior featured front sport seats with cloth inserts and Sofino simulated leather bolsters, with full Sofino leatherette available in the GT2 Package or with the manual transmission. The 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat provided excellent support, and the heated front seats were a welcome feature on cold mornings. The front passenger seat also had a height adjuster. The Forte GT's interior comfort was enhanced by a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, soft armrest pads, and upper door panel trim. The backseat offered good comfort with proper support and air conditioning vents. The Forte GT's Smart Trunk technology allowed for hands-free access, revealing a spacious 15.3 cubic-foot cargo area. Interior storage was generous, with a wireless smartphone charging pad, door panel storage, and a large glovebox.

The 2020 Subaru WRX's simple sedan layout provided excellent sightlines, with good rear and side visibility. The large windshield, slanted hood, and quarter windows ensured terrific forward visibility. The WRX's cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage compartments. The first-row seating offered plenty of head- and legroom, while the rear seat provided adequate space for adults on shorter trips. The WRX's 12 cubic feet of cargo space was modest compared to other compact sedans but comparable to other performance cars.

The 2020 Kia Forte came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, positioned for easy reference. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The Forte EX and GT added SiriusXM satellite radio and connected services through Kia’s UVO technology. The GT2 Package included an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, which, while better than the standard setup, struggled with the car's interior noise levels.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a standard 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 7-inch screen. The Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The WRX also had a digital display in the instrument panel and a digital information screen atop the dash, providing key driver information in multiple locations. While not the latest Subaru infotainment system, it offered all necessary tech features without being overly complex.

The 2020 Kia Forte was a Top Safety Pick according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It came with numerous advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forte GT with the GT2 Package included all these features. The UVO eServices technology added 911 Connect, automatic collision notification, and programmable alerts for speed, curfew, and geographical boundaries.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. It was available with the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic emergency braking. The WRX earned top marks from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).