2023 Kia Forte vs 2022 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta maintained its status as a steadfast performer in the automaker's lineup, even amidst global challenges like the pandemic and supply chain issues. It accounted for a significant portion of Volkswagen's U.S. sales, with a mild makeover that included an engine update, subtle exterior styling tweaks, and improved infotainment. The Jetta's design changes were understated, with chrome accents and new wheel designs adding a touch of flair. Inside, the Jetta offered subtle but appealing updates, including a new rhombus pattern on cloth seats and a standard leather-wrapped steering wheel on most trims. The 8-inch Digital Cockpit instrument cluster became standard, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Kia Forte, retaining some of the carmaker's older design cues, presented a blend of traditional and modern styling elements. The GT trims added bold red accents for a sportier look. Inside, the Forte held onto Kia's older layout with a touchscreen atop the dash and traditional climate controls below. The interior materials were notably nicer than some rivals, with soft-touch surfaces and sturdy construction. The GT models featured synthetic leather upholstery, offering a more substantial feel. Despite its age, the Forte's design remained competitive, providing a comfortable and modern cabin experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It offered a choice between a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Jetta's fuel economy was impressive, with the manual version achieving 29 mpg city, 43 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined. Automatic models varied slightly, with S and Sport trims rated at 31 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined, while SE and SEL trims achieved 29 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. Despite its fuel efficiency, the Jetta's powertrain had some drawbacks, including a touchy throttle and turbo lag. The driving experience was generally smooth on the highway, but city driving could be jumpy.

The 2023 Kia Forte offered two engine choices: a base 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 147 horsepower and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 201 horsepower. The base engine was paired with a CVT, while the GT trim offered a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual. The base engine provided adequate acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 8.7 seconds, while the GT trim achieved it in 6.5 seconds. The GT's sport-tuned suspension enhanced handling, though the dual-clutch transmission could be jumpy at lower speeds. The manual transmission offered a more engaging experience, despite being slightly less fuel-efficient. The Forte GT's ride quality was comfortable, with precise steering and minimal road noise.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta provided ample passenger space for four adults, with comfortable seats and a driver-centric cabin layout. Ergonomics were well thought out, with buttons for essential controls easily accessible. Storage options included door pockets, a center console bin, and a sunglass holder. The center storage bin, though not large, was practical for keeping items out of sight.

The 2023 Kia Forte's front seats offered ample space for taller passengers, with a comfortable layout for long drives. The dashboard and center console placed controls within easy reach, allowing for intuitive operation. Storage options included a rubberized phone tray, cup holders, door pockets, and a center armrest bin. The rear seats provided sufficient room for average-sized adults, with additional air conditioning vents and a USB charge port in higher trims. The trunk offered 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, surpassing some competitors, though the cargo floor's fabric covering felt less sturdy.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta featured a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on the SEL trim. The infotainment system included a 6.5-inch touchscreen on lower trims and an 8-inch MIB3 system on the SEL, offering navigation, wireless App-Connect, and enhanced voice recognition. The system supported Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink integration, with additional features like Bluetooth, USB-C ports, and a premium Beats Audio sound system available on higher trims.

The 2023 Kia Forte came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen on lower trims, while the GT-Line and above received a 10.25-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. The GT-Line added a navigation system and upgraded the audio system to six speakers, with an optional eight-speaker Harman Kardon system. The infotainment system featured sharp graphics and quick responses, with intuitive menu organization and helpful shortcuts.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta came standard with IQ.Drive, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning with automatic braking. The Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist. The Jetta had not yet received crash safety ratings for 2022, but the 2021 model received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and mostly "Good" grades from the IIHS, with some shortcomings in headlight tests.

The 2023 Kia Forte received four out of five stars from the NHTSA for overall protection, with some base forward collision features flagged as not meeting performance criteria. The IIHS awarded the Forte "Good" scores in most evaluations, except for the updated front moderate overlap and side impact tests, which received "Poor" ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor, with additional options available on higher trims.