Anybody on the lookout for an inexpensive automobile usually has a tricky selection: sedan or hatchback.
Sedans are sometimes a bit extra snug and supply some separation from the cargo, whereas hatchbacks make it simpler to haul round larger objects. Every has its upside, however choosing one or the opposite — particularly within the compact automobile market — boils all the way down to a private desire.
For 2024, the Kia Forte sedan and the Subaru Impreza hatchback make the choice a tricky one.
It’s time for a deeper dive into these two compacts.
2024 Kia Forte
The 2024 Kia Forte could symbolize one of the best worth within the compact automobile area, with pricing for its entry-level LX mannequin beginning at slightly below $20,000. You get a handsome sedan with a spacious cabin and beneficiant expertise for that cash.
Not as spectacular are its Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) 4-Star General Security Ranking or relatively pedestrian base engine: a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that produces solely 147 horsepower. Then again, Kia affords potential consumers loads of choices to step up into extra compelling — and extra highly effective — variations of the Forte. There are 5 trim ranges obtainable: LX, LXS, GT-Line, GT, and GT Guide.
As a substitute of the usual variable transmission, the top-line GT and GT Guide fashions get you a 7-speed dual-clutch automated or 6-speed handbook transmission, respectively, with a 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that offers the Forte loads of punch for chopping by visitors or making it onto the freeway. Maybe much more spectacular is that the highest-priced Forte is barely costlier than the entry-level Impreza. Pricing for the 2024 Kia Forte begins at $19,790.
Kia Forte Highlights
Straightforward on the fuel station: Kia’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder isn’t precisely quick, however it’s good with gas. The Forte’s EPA mixed mpg common is 32, among the many high within the section. The Forte with the 1.6-liter turbo powerplant is rated at 26 mpg mixed, which is thirstier however stronger than the bigger Subaru engine.
Capacious and comfy: Though the Forte is compact, it’s loads large inside, although it’s a smidge smaller than its extra accommodating competitors right here. Nonetheless, it solely comes as a 4-door, so if it’s essential to entry no matter you’re carrying round whereas on the go, the Impreza makes that simpler.
Class-leading guarantee: Kia’s 5-year/60,000-mile primary guarantee and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain guarantee give you peace of thoughts — for as much as a decade. When you could not drive the Forte for that lengthy, there should still be some guarantee left if this compact Kia sedan will get supplied to a different proprietor.
Examine this week’s Honest Buy Value or see the Forte fashions on the market close to you.
2024 Subaru Impreza
The sixth-generation Impreza makes its debut for 2024. It’s an entire redesign and obtainable solely as a hatchback. Many of us respect the flexibleness and accessibility that physique fashion affords.
The thought of a Subaru hatchback usually conjures pictures of road-rally machines tearing up the countryside. Whereas probably not designed for that, the bottom Impreza gives a stable 2.0-liter flat-4 engine delivering 152 hp with a constantly variable automated transmission (CVT). Transfer as much as the RS trim, and a 2.5-liter flat-4 with paddle shifters and 182 hp — turn out to be customary. Pricing for the 2024 Subaru Impreza begins at $22,995.
Subaru Impreza Highlights
Higher mousetrap: The brand new Impreza is a greater automobile, far more refined than earlier than. Whereas it’s not in the identical league because the WRX, it’s a robust performer, particularly when utilizing the paddle shifters. Moreover, the brand new chassis is 10% stiffer, which has allowed the engineers to make the suspension extra snug with out sacrificing responsiveness on twisty roads.
Extremely contented: Though the Impreza just isn’t the least costly choice within the section, Subaru makes certain you get some bang in your buck. Actually, the Base mannequin comes with just one choice: 16-inch alloy wheels. On the Sport, you may order an All-Climate Bundle (heated seats, mirrors, and wipers), plus a bundle that features a sunroof, rear cross-traffic detection, a blind-spot monitor, and an automated emergency steering. Not the least of all its options is customary all-wheel drive (AWD).
Security first: Subaru is thought for its security, which has not modified with the 2024 Impreza. The Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) has given it a 5-Star total security ranking, a full star higher than it awarded the Forte. The EyeSight security suite is highlighted by pre-collision braking and automated emergency steering.
Examine this week’s Honest Buy Value or see the Impreza fashions on the market close to you.
Similarities
These two compact automobiles provide glorious gas financial system, comparatively meager base engines, and exterior styling that doesn’t get too wild. Each present comparable inside area, however the Impreza hatchback is healthier for hauling cargo.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Forte is a robust performer with loads of room, main gas financial system, and stable design. It’s a secure wager, particularly with its class-leading guarantee.
The Subaru Impreza is a robust performer that options loads of room, main gas financial system, and … wait. Hmm. Let’s get to the underside line: Would you like a sedan that’s just a little cheaper or a barely pricier AWD hatchback with nice trip and dealing with?
| 2024 Kia Forte | 2024 Subaru Impreza | |
| Beginning Value | $19,790 | $22,995 |
| Well-liked Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder AWD |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 152 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 145 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | Clever Variable Transmission (IVT) | CVT |
| Gasoline Economic system | 28 metropolis/39 freeway/32 mixed mpg | 27 metropolis/34 freeway/30 mixed mpg |
| Additionally Obtainable | 1.6-liter turbo 4-cylinder, 6-speed handbook transmission, 7-speed dual-clutch automated transmission |
2.5-liter flat-4 AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Primary Guarantee | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Guarantee | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA General Security | 4 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capability | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 inches | 105.1 inches |
| General Size | 182.7 inches | 176.2 inches |
| Width | 70.9 inches | 70.1 inches |
| Peak | 56.5 inches | 58.3 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 34.8 ft | 34.8 ft |
| Headroom, Entrance | 38.8 inches | 39.8 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 37.5 inches | 38.0 inches |
| Legroom, Entrance | 42.2 inches | 42.9 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 35.7 inches | 36.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Entrance | 56.1 inches | 56.8 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 55.3 inches | 55.3 inches |
| Cargo Quantity | 15.3 cubic ft | 20.4 cubic ft |
