2022 Kia Forte vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla showcased a major evolution in design, marking it as one of the most attractive versions in recent history, especially in its SE and XSE trims. These trims featured sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, diffuser panel, body kit, twin-outlet exhaust, and eye-catching 18-inch aluminum wheels. With options like the Celestite Gray metallic paint, the Corolla came off as genuinely appealing. Despite these enhancements, the design had some quirks. The hood shut line that stretched to the headlight assembly and into the bumper created a visual disruption, amplifying the overbite and gaping front end. While the rear quarter view was the car’s best angle, even the standard models exhibited an over-styled rear bumper. Special editions like the Apex Edition accentuated these quirks further.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Forte offered four trim levels: FE, LXS, GT-Line, and GT. The base FE trim was the fuel-efficiency leader, whereas the GT added sporty and eye-catching elements like red accent detailing, gloss black lip spoiler, and machined-finish 18-inch wheels. All 2022 models received revamped grilles, headlights, and bumpers, giving the Forte a refreshed look. The GT variant particularly stood out due to its exclusive larger wheels and sporty details, although these wheels were challenging to clean. Interiors in Forte models retained designs from the previous year, with a sporty feel especially evident in the GT’s flat-bottom steering wheel and tasteful metal accents.

For those interested in engine prowess, the 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE delivered 169 horsepower from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. With 151 lb-ft of torque, the Corolla’s Dynamic Shift CVT, paddle shifters, and Sport mode provided an engaging drive, albeit with occasional CVT droning. The six-speed manual offered via the SE trim for an extra $200 allowed for spirited driving. The Corolla’s TNGA platform ensured a low center of gravity, superb handling, and predictable dynamics, reminiscent of the Honda Civic or standard Mazda3. With an EPA rating of 34 mpg combined, the Corolla XSE averaged 31.1 mpg on more adventurous routes.

The 2022 Kia Forte’s mechanical components largely mirrored the previous year’s, except for the GT trim, which sported a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing an exhilarating 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DCT with paddle shifters. Kia’s modifications included sport-tuned suspension and available Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. Though fun in corners and capable on mountain roads, the Forte GT had flaws such as unimpressive brakes on demanding descents and a loud cabin at freeway speeds. While it promised 30 mpg with the DCT, real-world testing only achieved 25.8 mpg, increasing to 32.8 mpg during extensive freeway driving.

Inside the 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE, drivers enjoyed elevated features like heated SofTex leatherette seats with striped inserts and an eight-way power driver’s seat, enhancing comfort and visibility. However, the rear seats, while supportive, were limited by tight headroom and legroom without air vents for rear passengers. The sedan’s trunk offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which was average for its class, while the hatchback version expanded this to 17.8 cubic feet but lacked an interior trunk handle.

In comparison, the 2022 Kia Forte GT, especially with the GT2 package, offered a host of luxurious features such as a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sunroof. Its front passenger seat height adjustability was an added bonus. Rear seat room was commendable, backed by dual-zone climate control and rear air conditioning vents. With a trunk capacity of 15.3 cubic feet, the Forte outmatched its competitors and even provided a convenient internal grab handle for closing the trunk.

In the realm of safety, the 2021 Toyota Corolla was fortified with the TSS 2.0 system, providing adaptive cruise control, pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist as standard. New additions included rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist performed well, albeit with some minor quirks. The Corolla had previously earned a “Top Safety Pick” from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Kia Forte continued its commitment to safety with the Kia Drive Wise suite, offering forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, driver monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims introduced features like rear cross-traffic alert, Safe Exit Warning, and Highway Driving Assist (HDA) akin to semi-autonomous driving. Kia’s HDA system was highly regarded for its performance, particularly in traffic. The Forte garnered high marks from the IIHS for crashworthiness, though NHTSA ratings included a four-star overall rating but pointed out potential rear passenger injury risks.