2022 Kia Forte vs 2023 Honda Accord

The 2022 Kia Forte offered a range of trim levels, each catering to different preferences and budgets. The Forte GT, evaluated for this review, stood out with its sporty design, featuring Steel Gray paint, the GT2 Package, and a price tag of $26,900, including destination charges. This model boasted a refreshed exterior with a new grille, headlights, and bumpers, along with exclusive details like red-accent detailing and larger 18-inch wheels, which enhanced its sporty appeal. Inside, the Forte GT maintained a sporty look with traditional analog gauges, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and polished metal accents, providing a comfortable and stylish cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Accord underwent a redesign, adopting a more modern yet conservative appearance. The Accord EX, tested for this review, featured Canyon River Blue paint and a pewter wheel finish, which garnered positive feedback. Inside, the Accord EX offered durable cloth seats with contrast stitching and a stylish metal mesh dashboard trim. The digital instrumentation and touchscreen infotainment system reflected Honda's attention to detail and refinement. Overall, the Accord EX presented a well-outfitted interior for its price and class, though some features like a height-adjustable front passenger seat and rear air conditioning vents were notably absent.

The 2022 Kia Forte GT delivered a spirited driving experience with its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, offered drivers a choice of driving modes to enhance throttle response and steering feel. The Forte GT's sport-tuned suspension and larger 18-inch alloy wheels contributed to its agile handling, making it enjoyable on winding roads. However, the brakes struggled during demanding descents, and the engine noise at highway speeds was noticeable. Despite these drawbacks, the Forte GT excelled as a zippy commuter and comfortable road trip companion.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. While the power was adequate for the 3,280-pound sedan, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided a smooth driving experience, albeit with some CVT drone during acceleration. The Accord's suspension effectively managed its weight distribution, offering a comfortable and responsive ride. The brakes performed admirably, even during challenging conditions, and the steering provided precise control. However, the tires lacked grip during spirited driving, and the CVT's Sport mode was less satisfying. Overall, the Accord EX delivered a capable and enjoyable driving experience, particularly on winding roads.

The 2022 Kia Forte GT, equipped with the GT2 option package, offered a range of comfort features, including a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sunroof. The interior provided ample space, with a height-adjustable front passenger seat and rear air conditioning vents enhancing passenger comfort. The rear seat offered good leg support, and the trunk boasted 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making it one of the largest in its segment. The Forte GT proved comfortable for long journeys, accommodating both passengers and luggage with ease.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX added features like heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. However, it lacked a height-adjustable front passenger seat and rear air conditioning vents, which could impact passenger comfort. The back seat provided excellent leg support and ample legroom, while the trunk offered a generous 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The Accord's interior design focused on practicality, with numerous storage locations for personal items. Despite some missing features, the Accord EX provided a comfortable and spacious environment for passengers and cargo.

The 2022 Kia Forte offered various technology packages, enhancing infotainment and safety features. The GT-Line and GT trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The Forte GT also included wireless smartphone charging and an available Harman Kardon sound system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition capabilities were inconsistent. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a standout feature, alerting drivers when traffic ahead started moving.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX came with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Bluetooth connectivity, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and HondaLink connected services. The EX trim featured an eight-speaker audio system, but lacked SiriusXM satellite radio. The voice recognition system worked well with Apple's Siri, and the physical controls for the stereo were a welcome touch. While the Accord EX's tech offerings were basic, they provided essential functionality for everyday use.

The 2022 Kia Forte featured Kia Drive Wise technology, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features across all trim levels. Standard equipment included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The GT-Line and GT trims added active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Warning. The Forte's Highway Driving Assist system was well-executed, providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The IIHS awarded the Forte high marks for crashworthiness, while the NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash protection rating.

The 2023 Honda Accord came equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The EX trim offered an optional safety package with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Honda Sensing performed with accuracy and refinement, though the lane-centering system could waver on curves. The Accord earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.