Is a 2019 Kia Forte an Electric Car Find Out Here

The 2019 Kia Forte is not an electric car—it’s powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, delivering 147 horsepower with no electric-only driving capability. If you’re seeking a budget-friendly hybrid or EV alternative, consider newer models like the Forte GT-Line Hybrid or Kia’s dedicated electric vehicles, such as the EV6, for modern efficiency and performance.

Key Takeaways

• Not electric: The 2019 Kia Forte is a gas-powered sedan.
• No EV model: Kia didn’t offer an electric Forte in 2019.
• Fuel efficiency: It delivers 30–35 MPG combined—great for gas cars.
• Tech features: Packed with infotainment, not electric drivetrain.
• Future models: Kia’s EVs started with Niro; Forte EV came later.

Is a 2019 Kia Forte an Electric Car? Find Out Here

You’re browsing used cars, and a 2019 Kia Forte catches your eye. It looks sleek, gets great gas mileage, and the price is right. But then you start wondering: Is a 2019 Kia Forte an electric car? Maybe you’ve seen electric Kias like the Niro EV or Soul EV, and you’re curious if this compact sedan is part of the electric revolution. Or perhaps you’re trying to decide between a fuel-efficient gas car and a full EV, and you’re not sure where the Forte fits in.

Let’s be honest—car shopping can feel overwhelming. With terms like “hybrid,” “plug-in hybrid,” “EV,” and “start-stop technology” flying around, it’s easy to get confused. You just want a clear answer. So, let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the point. We’ll explore the 2019 Kia Forte’s powertrain, compare it to electric vehicles, and help you decide if this car fits your lifestyle—whether you’re aiming to save on gas, reduce emissions, or simply drive something reliable and fun.

Understanding the 2019 Kia Forte: What Powers This Compact Sedan?

Engine and Transmission: A Traditional Gasoline Setup

The 2019 Kia Forte is not an electric car. Instead, it runs on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces around 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission (on the base FE trim) or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Kia calls the “Intelligent Variable Transmission” (IVT). The IVT is designed to improve fuel efficiency by constantly adjusting gear ratios for optimal performance.

Think of it like this: if a traditional automatic transmission is like climbing a ladder with fixed rungs, the CVT is like a ramp that smoothly adjusts its slope. This helps the engine stay in its most efficient RPM range, especially during city driving and highway cruising.

Fuel Efficiency: Where the Forte Shines (Without Electricity)

Even though it’s not electric, the 2019 Forte is impressively fuel-efficient. According to the EPA, the Forte achieves:

• Up to 31 mpg city / 41 mpg highway / 35 mpg combined with the CVT
• About 27 mpg city / 37 mpg highway / 31 mpg combined with the manual transmission

That’s excellent for a non-hybrid, non-electric car. For example, if you drive 15,000 miles a year and gas costs $3.50 per gallon, you’d spend roughly $1,500 annually on fuel with the CVT version. Compare that to a typical EV, which might cost $600–$800 in electricity per year (depending on rates and charging habits), and the gap isn’t as wide as you might think—especially when you factor in the Forte’s lower purchase price.

No Plug, No Battery Pack: The Forte’s Power Source

Here’s a key point: the 2019 Forte has no plug-in capability and no large battery pack like an electric vehicle. It uses a standard 12-volt lead-acid battery to start the engine and power accessories (lights, radio, etc.). The car generates its own electricity through an alternator while the engine runs—just like most gasoline cars have since the 1960s.

There’s no onboard charger, no regenerative braking system (beyond basic coasting), and no way to charge the car externally. If you’re looking for a car you can plug into a wall outlet or charging station, the 2019 Forte won’t work for you.

How Does the 2019 Forte Compare to Electric Cars?

Powertrain Differences: Gas vs. Electric

Electric cars (EVs) like the Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt, or Kia Niro EV use large lithium-ion battery packs and electric motors to drive the wheels. They don’t have engines, transmissions, or exhaust systems. Instead, they convert electrical energy into motion with near-instant torque and zero tailpipe emissions.

The 2019 Forte, on the other hand, burns gasoline in an internal combustion engine (ICE). This process is less efficient than electric motors—only about 20–30% of the energy in gasoline actually turns into forward motion. The rest is lost as heat, sound, and exhaust. In contrast, electric motors are 75–90% efficient.

So, while the Forte is efficient for a gas car, it’s not in the same league as an EV when it comes to energy conversion and environmental impact.

Emissions and Environmental Impact

EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, which means no CO2, NOx, or particulate matter coming out of the back. Even when you account for the electricity used to charge them (which may come from coal, natural gas, or renewables), studies show that EVs typically have a lower carbon footprint over their lifetime than gas cars.

The 2019 Forte emits about 244 grams of CO2 per mile, according to the EPA. That’s not terrible for a gas car—especially one this fuel-efficient—but it’s still significantly higher than an EV. For example, the Kia Niro EV emits about 100–120 grams of CO2 per mile (depending on your local energy mix), and that number drops even lower if you charge with solar or wind power.

Cost of Ownership: Upfront Price vs. Long-Term Savings

One of the biggest differences between the Forte and an EV is cost. The 2019 Forte had a starting MSRP of around $17,700, while a comparable EV like the 2019 Kia Niro EV started at $38,500—more than double the price.

However, EVs often have lower operating costs. They require less maintenance (no oil changes, no spark plugs, fewer moving parts), and electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline. Some states also offer tax credits, rebates, or HOV lane access for EV owners.

Here’s a quick comparison of annual ownership costs (based on 15,000 miles/year):

Cost Factor	2019 Kia Forte (Gas)	2019 Kia Niro EV (Electric)
Fuel/Electricity	$1,500	$700
Maintenance & Repairs	$400	$250
Depreciation (annual)	$2,200	$3,000
Insurance	$1,200	$1,400
Total Annual Cost	$5,300	$5,350

As you can see, the total annual cost is very similar—but the Forte wins on upfront affordability, while the Niro EV wins on long-term efficiency and environmental impact.

What About Hybrids and Plug-In Hybrids? Where Does the Forte Fit?

No Hybrid Option in 2019: Forte’s Place in Kia’s Lineup

It’s important to note that the 2019 Kia Forte was not offered as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. Unlike some competitors—like the Honda Civic Hybrid or Toyota Corolla Hybrid—Kia chose to focus on a highly efficient gasoline engine and CVT for this model year.

Kia did offer hybrid and EV versions of other models, such as:

• Kia Niro Hybrid (40+ mpg, no plug)
• Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid (26-mile electric range, then hybrid mode)
• Kia Niro EV (239-mile range, full electric)

But the Forte was strictly a gas-powered car in 2019. If you wanted a more eco-friendly Kia sedan at the time, you’d have to look at the Optima Hybrid or the Niro lineup.

Start-Stop Technology: A Small Step Toward Efficiency

One feature the 2019 Forte does have is engine start-stop technology. When you come to a full stop (like at a red light), the engine automatically shuts off to save fuel. When you lift your foot off the brake, it restarts instantly.

This isn’t the same as an electric motor, but it’s a step in the right direction. It can improve city fuel economy by 5–10%, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, it’s not regenerative braking (which captures energy when slowing down), and it doesn’t allow the car to drive on electricity alone.

Think of it like a smart thermostat: it helps, but it’s not a full HVAC system. The Forte still relies entirely on gasoline for propulsion.

Could You Convert a Forte to Electric?

Technically, yes—but it’s not practical for most people. Some DIY enthusiasts and specialty shops perform electric conversions, where they remove the engine and install a battery pack and electric motor. But this is expensive (often $15,000–$25,000), time-consuming, and requires significant technical knowledge.

Plus, you lose trunk space, add weight, and may void any remaining warranty or resale value. For most drivers, buying a factory-built EV (like a used Niro EV) is a much smarter choice.

Who Should Consider the 2019 Kia Forte (and Who Shouldn’t)

Best For: Budget-Conscious Buyers and Commuters

The 2019 Forte is a fantastic option if you:

• Want a reliable, affordable compact sedan
• Don’t have access to home or workplace charging
• Drive mostly short to medium distances (under 50 miles/day)
• Want to avoid the higher upfront cost of an EV
• Like the idea of a modern car with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and safety features (like lane departure warning and forward collision avoidance)

It’s also a great first car for teens or college students—safe, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain.

Not Ideal For: EV Enthusiasts and Long-Distance Drivers

But the Forte isn’t the right choice if you:

• Want a true electric car with zero emissions and plug-in charging
• Have a long daily commute and want to minimize fuel costs
• Live in a city with congestion charges or emissions zones (EVs are often exempt)
• Are passionate about sustainability and reducing your carbon footprint
• Want to take advantage of EV incentives (like tax credits or free parking)

Also, if you’re considering a car for a multi-vehicle household, and you already have a gas SUV or truck, adding an EV for daily use could save you a lot in the long run. The Forte won’t help you go electric.

Real-World Example: Two Drivers, Two Choices

Let’s say you have two neighbors:

• Alex drives 12 miles each way to work, has a garage with a 110V outlet, and wants to reduce their carbon footprint. They’d be better off with a used EV like the Niro EV or a plug-in hybrid.
• Jamie drives 8 miles to the train station, takes the train to the city, and only uses the car on weekends. They don’t have a garage and rely on street parking. For Jamie, the 2019 Forte is a perfect fit—affordable, efficient, and low-maintenance.

Your lifestyle matters more than the technology. The right car depends on your needs, not just the specs.

Future of the Forte: Is an Electric Version Coming?

2020 and Beyond: Kia’s Shift Toward Electrification

Since 2019, Kia has made big moves toward electric vehicles. The 2022 Kia EV6 is a dedicated EV built on a new electric platform. Kia has also announced plans to offer 14 electric models by 2027, including electric versions of popular sedans and SUVs.

While there’s no electric version of the Forte as of 2024, it’s possible one could arrive in the future. Kia has already launched the Kia K3 (a rebadged Hyundai Elantra) in some markets with hybrid and electric options. It wouldn’t be surprising to see a Forte EV or Forte Hybrid in the next few years.

What Would an Electric Forte Look Like?

If Kia does make an electric Forte, it would likely:

• Have a 300+ mile range (competitive with the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6)
• Use 800-volt fast charging (like the EV6) for 10–80% charge in under 20 minutes
• Offer vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability (powering devices from the car’s battery)
• Be priced competitively—perhaps starting around $30,000–$35,000 after incentives

Until then, if you want an electric Kia sedan, your best bet is a used Niro EV or a newer EV6.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2019 Kia Forte an Electric Car?

Let’s answer the question directly: No, the 2019 Kia Forte is not an electric car. It’s a fuel-efficient, reliable, and affordable compact sedan powered by a gasoline engine. It doesn’t plug in, doesn’t use batteries for propulsion, and doesn’t produce zero emissions.

But that doesn’t make it a bad car. In fact, for many drivers, the Forte is a smart choice. It’s well-built, packed with modern features, and gets excellent gas mileage. If you’re not ready for an EV—or if an EV doesn’t fit your lifestyle—the Forte is a solid alternative.

Think of it this way: not everyone needs a sports car. Some people just need a dependable daily driver that gets them from point A to point B without breaking the bank. The 2019 Forte does that—and does it well.

At the same time, if you’re serious about going electric, the Forte won’t get you there. But that’s okay! The car market is full of options. Whether you choose a gas car, a hybrid, or a full EV, the most important thing is finding the right fit for you.

So, next time you see a 2019 Kia Forte on the lot, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting: a great little gas-powered car—just not an electric one. And now, you’re armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Whether you go electric or stick with gas, drive happy, and drive smart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Kia Forte an electric car?

No, the 2019 Kia Forte is not an electric car. It is a compact sedan powered by a traditional gasoline engine, specifically a 2.0L 4-cylinder.

Does the 2019 Kia Forte have an electric version?

The 2019 Kia Forte does not have an electric or hybrid variant. All trims run exclusively on gasoline, unlike Kia’s dedicated EV models like the Niro EV.

What type of fuel does a 2019 Kia Forte use?

The 2019 Kia Forte runs on regular unleaded gasoline. It does not require or support electric charging, as it lacks an electric powertrain.

Is the 2019 Kia Forte a plug-in hybrid or electric car?

No, the 2019 Forte is neither a plug-in hybrid nor an electric car. It is a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle with no electric-only driving mode.

How does the 2019 Kia Forte compare to electric cars in efficiency?

The 2019 Kia Forte averages 31–35 MPG combined, far less efficient than electric cars. EVs like the Kia Niro EV offer 112 MPGe and zero emissions.

Are there any electric features in the 2019 Kia Forte?

While not an electric car, the 2019 Forte includes minor electric-assisted features like start-stop technology and regenerative braking (in some trims), but these don’t make it an EV.