2020 Kia Forte vs 2021 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Kia Forte GT, new for that year, topped the Forte lineup with 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 cement its sport-sedan credentials. Despite its potent capabilities, the Forte GT maintained a tasteful and grown-up appearance, with subtle details like revised bumpers, a black lip spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets signaling its potential. Inside, the Forte GT featured complimentary surface tones and textures, soft-touch materials, red seat piping, and a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, creating a modern look. The transmission shifter felt solid, imparting a sense of quality.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru WRX had a more adolescent aesthetic, often compared to a rebellious teenager within the Subaru family. While the standard WRX looked tamer than the racier WRX STI, it still featured a wedge-like front end and a short trunk lid, giving it a speedy appearance even when stationary. Aerodynamic bodywork and a functional hood scoop added to its sporty look. Inside, the WRX's cockpit was function-first, with plenty of hard plastics contributing to its immature reputation compared to the refined cabins of competitors like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si. The WRX's interior design had not significantly changed since its introduction in 2015, making it feel dated.

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 rpm 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 provided a gratifying driving experience. The Forte GT also featured a sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust system, larger front brakes, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with the latter adjusting based on driving behavior. The Forte GT offered a firm, connected ride quality, with a sport exhaust that burbled with each upshift. The car handled well on curvy roads, remaining glued to the pavement and conveying critical data to the driver. However, its nose-heavy weight bias and brake fade during hard driving were noted.

The 2021 Subaru WRX came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite being the most powerful among its rivals, the WRX required mastering the revs to get the most out of it. The CVT, though not ideal for driving enthusiasts, kept the revs in the powerband accurately. The manual transmission, however, had a vague clutch feel, making it less satisfying. The WRX featured Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, modulating torque distribution and applying slight braking on the inside wheels in a corner. This helped the WRX handle corners with precision, though its stiff ride was less comfortable compared to competitors like the Civic Si and GTI.

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 or with the manual transmission. The 10-way power adjustable driver's seat provided excellent comfort and support, and the front passenger seat also had a height adjuster. Backseat comfort was good, with proper support and air conditioning vents. The Forte GT's Smart Trunk technology allowed for hands-free trunk access, revealing a roomy 15.3 cubic-foot cargo area. Interior storage was generous, with a wireless smartphone charging pad, door panel storage, and a large glovebox.

The 2021 Subaru WRX had a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. While this was more than the Civic Si coupe, it was less than the sedan and far behind the VW GTI's cargo space. The WRX's interior packaging felt dated, with limited in-door bottle holders and center console cupholders that could obstruct shifting. The WRX provided a comfortable driving position with good visibility and decent rear seat space, accommodating four adults with relative ease.

Every 2020 Kia Forte came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The Forte EX and GT included SiriusXM satellite radio and connected services through Kia's Your Voice (UVO) technology. The GT2 Package added an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, though it struggled with ambient noise.

The 2021 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen running Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with a 7-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. Both screens supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a sensible layout and easy-to-use controls. The Limited trim offered an option package with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo, providing solid sound quality. However, the WRX's infotainment system felt dated compared to newer competitors.

The 2020 Kia Forte was a Top Safety Pick according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and came with numerous advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). The GT with the GT2 Package included all available safety features, though the automatic emergency braking system worked only 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 worked well but required hands on the steering wheel. The Forte GT also included 911 Connect, an automatic collision notification system, and programmable alerts for speed, curfew, and geographical boundaries.

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with the latest safety features. Subaru's EyeSight system, with adaptive cruise control, emergency automatic braking, and lane-departure warning, was available on the Premium and Limited trims with the CVT. Adaptive high beams, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking were options on the Limited trim. Every WRX trim came standard with a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.