2023 Kia Forte vs. Stinger | Merrillville, IN
Are you certain a Kia sedan is a perfect option as your next vehicle but aren’t sure which one is right for you? Let the Southlake Kia team help! In this comparison article, we look at two very different Kia models: the compact 2023 Kia Forte and the sporty 2023 Kia Stinger. Read through our comparison to learn more about their similarities and differences so you can make a decision with confidence. If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with our Kia dealership in Merrillville, IN, using our online form or by calling (219) 947-1500.
Already know which Kia sedan suits you? Browse our new inventory for available Stinger and Forte trim packages and color options, and search current finance and lease offers for great savings opportunities.
The 2023 Kia Forte starts at $19,490 MSRP, while the 2023 Kia Stinger starts at $36,590 MSRP.
2023 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Engine Specs & Fuel Economy
The most considerable difference between the Forte and Stinger is performance capabilities. Consider your driving preferences and general usage. Appreciate optional fuel economy? The Forte is great on gas! Looking to level-up your regular driving routine? The track-inspired Stinger delivers added energy to any daily drive. Both sedans have two powertrains to choose from, including two turbocharged engines on the 2023 Kia Stinger.
To see key performance differences, refer to the accompanying specs chart.
| 2023 Kia Model | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drive System | Max. MPG (city / hwy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forte | 2.0L GDI I4 | 147 HP | 132 lb.-ft. | IVT | FWD | 31 / 41 |
| Forte | 1.6L turbo I4 | 201 HP | 195 lb.-ft. | Seven-speed DCT or six-speed manual | FWD | 27 / 35 |
| Stinger | 2.5L GDI turbo I4 | 300 HP | 311 lb.-ft. | Eight-speed automatic | RWD or AWD | 22 / 32 |
| Stinger | 3.3L GDI turbo V6 | 368 HP | 376 lb.-ft. | Eight-speed automatic | RWD or AWD | 18 / 25 |
2023 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Exterior Design
Both offering unique styles, the 2023 Kia Forte and Stinger simply look good on the road. Sleek, swept-back curves adorn the Kia Forte, and you can elevate that essence ever further with several exciting wheel design choices. Athletic and coupe-inspired, the Kia Stinger sits lower to the ground and offers sharp, distinct design qualities that’ll catch your eye. The Forte and Stinger have GT-Line body styling, which is standard on the Stinger and available on Forte GT-Line and above trims.
Available Kia Forte and Kia Stinger exterior features include:
- Smart Trunkâ„¢
- Michelin® Pilot® Sport 4 summer tires
- LED fog lights (Forte)
- 15-, 16-, 17-, and 18-in. wheel options (Forte)
- Smart welcome (Stinger)
- 18- and 19-in. wheel options (Stinger)
- Dual exhaust tips (standard on Stinger)
- Sunroof (with power sunshade on Stinger)
- LED headlights, daytime running lights, and tail lights (standard on Stinger)
- Heated side mirrors with LED turn signal indicators (standard on Stinger)
2023 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Interior Design & Technology
Explore the open road with the comforts and conveniences of the 2023 Kia Forte or Kia Stinger. Both sedans have several seating upholstery options and dual-zone automatic climate control, the latter of which is available on the Forte and standard on the Stinger. In terms of technology, you’ll find standard Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Bluetooth® capabilities to seamlessly pair your smartphone with the infotainment system.
Other available interior and technology features include:
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- SynTex seat trim (Forte)
- 8-in. infotainment touchscreen (Forte)
- Four- or six-speaker audio system, or Harman Kardon® audio system with eight speakers (Forte)
- Leather seat trim (Stinger)
- Nine-speaker audio system or Harman Kardon audio system with 15 speakers (Stinger)
- 10.25-in. infotainment touchscreen with navigation and Kia Connect (standard on Stinger)
2023 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Size & Cargo Space
If passenger space makes a significant difference in your day to day, you’ll want to consider the dimensional differences between the 2023 Kia Forte and 2023 Kia Stinger. While both vehicles seat five, the Forte offers a little more overall passenger space than the Stinger. If a spacious cargo area is important, the coupe-like body of the Stinger gives you added trunk space, including an under-floor storage compartment to stow smaller items you’d like to keep out of sight. Plus, adjust the 60/40 split-folding rear seat to accommodate larger items. This feature is standard on the Stinger and available on the Forte.
| Forte | 2023 Kia Model | Stinger |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Max. Seating | 5 |
| 96 cu.-ft. | Max. Passenger Space | 93.8 cu.-ft. |
| 15.3 cu.-ft. | Max. Cargo Space | 23.3 cu.-ft. |
| 38.8 in. / 37.7 in. | Max. Headroom (front / rear) | 38.3 in. / 37 in. |
| 56.1 in / 55.3 in. | Max. Shoulder Room (front / rear) | 56.4 in. / 54.8 in. |
| 42.2 in. / 35.7 in. | Max. Legroom (front / rear) | 42.6 in / 36.4 in. |
2023 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Safety Options & Features
The 2023 Kia Forte and Kia Stinger feature safety technologies from the Kia Drive Wise suite of driver assistance systems. Features that are standard on both models include forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, which applies the brakes to prevent or lessen the effects of a frontal collision, as well as the rear view monitor with dynamic parking guidance.
Other available Kia Forte and Kia Stinger Kia Drive Wise and safety features include:
- Driver attention warning
- Lane keep assist
- Lane following assist
- Navigation-based smart cruise control with stop and go (standard on Stinger)
- Safe exit warning (standard on Stinger)
- Lane departure warning (Stinger)
Have Additional Questions?
2022 Kia Forte vs. Stinger | Merrillville, IN
Explore your favorite haunts as well as roads unknown with a new Kia sedan. If you’re looking for the perfect one for your daily drive, let the Southlake Kia team assist you. We’ve compared the popular 2022 Kia Forte with the sporty 2022 Kia Stinger to help you determine the option that best fits your needs. Should you have any questions along the way, get in touch with our Kia dealership in Merrillville, IN, online or by phone at (219) 947-1500.
Ready for next steps? Search our new vehicle inventory for available Forte and Stinger trim packages and color options. Looking for a great deal? See our current finance and lease offers.
2022 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Engine Specs & Fuel Economy
You’ll find significantly different performance capabilities on the 2022 Kia Forte and Kia Stinger. The Forte is an everyday sedan that promotes energetic performance with a focus on fuel efficiency. If you’re looking for a sportier drive, the turbocharged engine options on the Stinger will meet your requirements.
See the accompanying information for more details about Kia Forte and Stinger engine specs and fuel economy.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drive System | Max. MPG (city / hwy) | Launch control | Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L MPI four-cylinder engine | 147 HP | 132 lb.-ft. | Intelligent variable transmission (IVT) with Sportmatic® | FWD | Up to 31 city / 41 hwy MPG | No | Forte |
| 1.6L GDI turbo four-cylinder engine | 201 HP | 195 lb.-ft. | Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or six-speed manual transmission | FWD | Up to 27 city / 35 hwy MPG | No | Forte |
| 2.5L GDI turbo four-cylinder engine | 300 HP | 311 lb.-ft. | Eight-speed automatic transmission | RWD or AWD | Up to 22 city / 32 hwy MPG | No | Stinger |
| 3.6L GDI turbo V6 engine | 368 HP | 376 lb.-ft. | Eight-speed automatic transmission | RWD or AWD | Up to 18 city / 25 hwy MPG | Yes | Stinger |
2022 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Exterior Design
Feel — and look — confident behind the wheel of the Kia Forte or Stinger. The Forte delivers modern and bold style, while the Stinger focuses on edgier design to match its turbocharged performance. Still, you’ll find commonalities like heated side mirrors, LED lighting, and several unique wheel options.
Other available exterior features include:
2022 Kia Forte
- Sport grille
- Perimeter approach lighting
- Smart Trunkâ„¢
- Power sunroof
- 15-, 16-, 17-, and 18-in. wheel options
2022 Kia Stinger
- GT-style grille
- Smart Welcome entry illumination
- Wide sunroof with power sunshade
- Rain-sensing, variable intermittent windshield wipers
- 18- or 19-in. wheels
2022 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Interior Design & Technology
It’s important to have the comfort and amenities that’ll improve your commute — the 2022 Forte and Stinger offer a host of interior and technology features to ensure you have plenty from both categories. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility makes it easy to access the contacts, music library, and more from your smartphone, while dual-zone automatic temperature control ensures all passengers are comfortable, whether it’s a sweltering summer day or chilly winter night. Other available shared features include wireless charging, remote keyless entry, and heated and ventilated front seats.
Additional interior and technology options include:
2022 Kia Forte
- 8-in. infotainment touchscreen or 10.25-in. infotainment touchscreen with Kia Connect and navigation
- Four-speaker audio system, six-speaker audio system, or Harman Kardon® premium audio with Clari-Fi™ and eight speakers
- 4.2-in. driver information display
- Woven cloth or SynTex seat upholstery
- Six-way manual or ten-way power driver’s seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
2022 Kia Stinger
- 10.25-in. infotainment touchscreen with Kia Connect and navigation
- Nine-speaker audio system or Harman Kardon QuantumLogicâ„¢ premium audio with Clari-Fi and 15 speakers
- 4.2-in. or 7-in. driver information display
- Multicolor LED accent lighting
- Leather or Nappa leather seat upholstery
- 12-way power driver’s seat with four-way power lumbar support or 16-way power driver’s seat with four-way power air cell lumbar adjustment, two-way side bolster, and cushion thigh extension
2022 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Size & Cargo Space
In both the Forte and Stinger, you’ll find seating for up to five passengers, the Forte offering up to 96 cubic feet of total passenger volume and the Stinger up to 93.8 cubic feet. Cargo capacity also varies, the Kia Forte giving you up to 15.3 cubic feet and the Kia Stinger up to 23.3 cubic feet. The Stinger also comes with under-floor cargo storage to discreetly store small items.
2022 Kia Forte vs. Stinger Safety Options & Features
Both the 2022 Kia Forte and Kia Stinger come with Kia Drive Wise driver assistance features and other safety features to keep you safe and secure. Standard safety features include forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, and lane following assist. The Stinger includes many more standard driver assistance features — blind spot collision avoidance assist, safe exit assist, a surround view monitor, and driver attention warning to name a few — that are still optional on the Forte, but they will cost extra.
Other available safety features include:
- Rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist
- Forward collision warning
- Smart cruise control with stop and go
- Highway driving assist (Forte)
2021 Kia Forte vs. 2021 Kia Stinger | Merrillville, IN
Are you in the market for a new Kia but aren’t sure which model is right for you? Let Southlake Kia help you make a decision! We’ve compared two of our most popular sedans: the Kia Forte and Kia Stinger. Whether you’re looking for simplicity or an energized daily drive, you’ll be on your way to choosing the best model for your needs after reviewing the information that follows.
Do you have any questions about the 2021 Kia Forte or 2021 Kia Stinger? Get in touch with Southlake Kia in Merrillville, IN, online or by phone at (219) 947-1500. You can also text or chat with a specialist for a quick response.
Take your vehicle search to the next level by viewing our new vehicle inventory filled with new Kia Fortes for sale and Kia Stingers for sale. You can also save on your new Kia by taking advantage of current finance and lease specials.
2021 Kia Forte vs. 2021 Kia Stinger Exterior Design
When it comes to design, there’s a huge difference between the 2021 Kia Forte and 2021 Kia Stinger. For subtle yet bold styling, the Kia Forte offers a unique twist on everyday aesthetics. Looking for a sportier approach to daily driving? The athletic 2021 Kia Stinger features a low profile and eye-catching details.
Other exterior features available on the 2021 Kia Forte and Stinger include:
- Variety of wheel style and size options
- LED headlights and tail lights
- Power sunroof
- Heated outside mirrors
- LED bi-function projection headlights (Stinger)
- Dynamic low-beam headlight assist (Stinger)
- Side vents with unique side air vent surrounds (Stinger)
2021 Kia Forte vs. 2021 Kia Stinger Interior Design & Technology
From all-around comfort to thoughtful design to innovative technology, the 2021 Kia Forte and Kia Stinger have the interior and tech features to heighten every behind-the-wheel experience. You can expect elements like various seating options to seamless phone pairing no matter which model you select.
See other interior and technology features available with the Forte and Stinger in the accompanying list.
- UVO infotainment system with intuitive touchscreen
- 3.5- or 4.2-in. instrument cluster display (Forte); 3.5- or 7-in. instrument cluster display (Stinger)
- Dual-zone automatic temperature control
- Woven cloth or SOFINO seating (Forte); leather or premium Nappa leather seat trim (Stinger)
- Ten-way power driver’s seat (Forte); 12-way power driver’s seat (Stinger)
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel with flat bottom (Stinger)
- Harman Kardon® premium audio system with Clari-Fi™
- Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™
- Wireless phone charger
2021 Kia Forte vs. 2021 Kia Stinger Engine Specs & Fuel Economy
Get the power and efficiency you’re after with the great engine and performance options on the 2021 Kia Forte and 2021 Kia Stinger. Both sedans give you two engines to choose from and much more to look forward to. The accompanying table has more information about performance specifications of the 2021 Forte and 2021 Stinger for you to consider.
2021 Kia Forte
- 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine
- 147 HP
- 132 lb.-ft. of torque
- Six-speed manual transmission or intelligent variable transmission (IVT) with Sportmatic®
- Up to 31 city/41 hwy MPG
- 1.6L turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine
- 201 HP
- 195 lb.-ft. of torque
- Six-speed manual transmission or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT)
- Up to 27 city/35 hwy MPG
- Sport-tuned dual exhaust
- FWD
2021 Kia Stinger
- 2.0L twin-scroll turbo four-cylinder GDI engine
- 255 HP
- 260 lb.-ft. of torque
- Up to 22 city/29 hwy MPG
- 3.3L twin-turbo GDI Lambda II V6 engine
- 365 HP
- 376 lb.-ft. of torque
- Up to 17 city/25 hwy MPG
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- RWD or AWD
- Launch control system
- High performance dampers
- Driver mode select
2021 Kia Forte vs. 2021 Kia Stinger Size & Cargo Space
While the 2021 Kia Forte and Stinger both comfortably seat up to five passengers, they vary in other areas. Whether you’re looking for roomy cargo space or an overall smaller wheelbase, the accompanying table has key measurements for both models.
2021 Kia Forte
- Length: 182.7 in.
- Height: 56.5 in.
- Cargo space: 15.3 cu.-ft.
- Remote keyless entry with trunk opener; Smart Trunkâ„¢ optional
2021 Kia Stinger
- Length: 190.2 in.
- Height: 55.1 in.
- Cargo space: 23 cu.-ft.
- Underfloor rear cargo storage
- Cargo net hooks
- Cargo shelf with covering
- Smart Trunk optional
2021 Kia Forte vs. 2021 Kia Stinger Safety Options & Features
Above all, your safety is the most important aspect of driving, whether you’re running a quick errand or have a long journey ahead of you. With Kia Drive Wise driver assistance features you’ll feel secure in either the 2021 Kia Forte or Stinger as they’re available with features from this safety suite, including the following:
- Blind spot collision warning
- Lane change assist
- Rear cross traffic collision warning
- Forward collision avoidance assist
- Forward collision warning
- Smart cruise control
- High beam assist
- Driver attention warning
Search By Keyword
Search By Filters
SAVED VEHICLES
You don't have any saved vehicles!
Look for this link on your favorites:
Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.
Choose How To Share:
(219) 947-1500
Call Now4191 E Lincoln Hwy • Merrillville, IN 46410
Get DirectionsToday's Hours:
Open Today! Sales: 9am-6pm
Open Today! Service: 7am-6pm
Open Today! Parts: 7am-6pm