2023 Kia Forte vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by most competitors. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with 4Matic all-wheel drive as an option. For those seeking performance, the AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered a more powerful engine. The E-Class consistently ranked high in reviews, though it was not known for cost-effectiveness. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its luxurious features and high price tag, was a car for those who appreciated opulence. Its design, especially with AMG styling and a matte-blue paint finish, was striking. Inside, the high-end spec offered digital displays, premium materials, and a sense of luxury that was unmistakable.

The 2023 Kia Forte, a compact sedan, retained some of Kia's older design cues while incorporating newer styling elements. The double-tab grille was a long-standing feature, while the GT trims added bold red accents for a touch of excitement. The Forte's design was more typical from the side and rear, but it maintained a graceful shape. Inside, the Forte held onto Kia's older layout with a touchscreen atop the dash and traditional climate controls. Despite this, it remained modern and user-friendly. The interior materials were notably nicer than its rivals, with soft-touch surfaces and sturdy construction. The GT models featured convincing synthetic leather upholstery. The Forte's interior aged well, remaining competitive against newer sedans.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 featured a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This setup ensured robust throttle response across a wide rev range, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system provided excellent power delivery. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced its dynamic capabilities. The car excelled as both a comfortable cruiser and a spirited performer, with driving modes that altered its character. Despite some cowl shake, the E53 Cabriolet felt solid and sure-footed on twisty roads. It was suitable for three-season, top-down driving, with features like heated wiper blades and AWD making it viable for winter use.

The 2023 Kia Forte offered two engine choices: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 147 horsepower and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower. The base engine, paired with a CVT, provided adequate performance, while the GT trim's turbocharged engine delivered more excitement. The GT's sport-tuned suspension improved handling, and the dual-clutch automatic transmission kept power readily available. The manual transmission offered maximum engagement, though it was slightly slower and less fuel-efficient. The GT's ride quality was comfortable, with a sportier feel than expected. The Forte GT handled turns with precision, though the steering lacked feedback. Despite some road noise, the cabin was quiet compared to other sedans.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for both front and rear passengers. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down. The focus was on driver and front passenger comfort, with features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming Airscarf system. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather. The triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet. The test car's multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance fragrance system enhanced long drives. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the top up, reduced to about half with the top down.

The 2023 Kia Forte's front seats provided ample space for taller passengers, with basic adjustments ensuring comfort on long drives. The dashboard layout placed controls within easy reach, allowing for intuitive operation. A rubberized phone tray and available wireless charger added convenience. Rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, with higher trims offering separate air conditioning vents and a USB charge port. The trunk held 15.3 cubic feet of cargo, more than some competitors, with a notable height for bulkier items. Remote seatback releases made expanding cargo space easier.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in digital instrumentation and infotainment with its MBUX system. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation, offering high-resolution displays. Interaction was possible via touchscreen, physical controls, voice assistant, or steering wheel buttons. MBUX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi, and an augmented reality navigation overlay. A head-up display and Burmester surround-sound audio system were available. Challenges included navigating the menu structure and accidental activation of the digital assistant, especially in a convertible with the top down.

The 2023 Kia Forte featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen on base trims, with a 10.25-inch display on GT-Line and above. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. The GT-Line added navigation and upgraded the audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with sharp graphics and quick responses. While wireless phone integration issues were noted in the test vehicle, it was considered an anomaly.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for impact and protecting hearing. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking. Most advanced safety features were part of the Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and more. The package impressed with its functionality, particularly adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist.

The 2023 Kia Forte received four out of five stars from NHTSA for overall protection. Some base forward collision features did not meet performance criteria, but upgrades did. IIHS awarded the Forte "Good" in most evaluations, except for "Poor" in updated tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and rear parking sensors.