Is Kia Forte an Electric Car Discover the Truth Here

The Kia Forte is not an electric car—it’s a fuel-efficient compact sedan powered by a traditional gasoline engine, with no fully electric version currently available. If you’re searching for an eco-friendly Kia, consider the Kia EV6 or Niro EV, which are designed for electric performance and zero emissions.

Key Takeaways

• Not fully electric: Kia Forte is a gas-powered sedan with no EV variant.
• Hybrid option available: Forte offers a hybrid model for improved fuel efficiency.
• Check trims carefully: Some trims may have mild-hybrid tech, not full electrification.
• No charging required: Forte runs solely on gasoline—no plug-in capability.
• Future EV plans: Kia focuses on EVs, but Forte isn’t part of current lineup.

Is Kia Forte an Electric Car? Let’s Set the Record Straight

So, you’re browsing the latest Kia lineup, maybe even picturing yourself behind the wheel of a sleek, modern sedan. You see the Kia Forte—a car with a sporty look, great tech, and a price tag that feels just right. Then it hits you: *Is the Kia Forte an electric car?* It’s a fair question. With all the buzz around electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids, and plug-in hybrids, it’s easy to get confused. I remember when I first started researching cars for my own commute—I assumed every new sedan had to be electric or at least a hybrid. But after a few test drives and a deep dive into specs, I realized the market is more nuanced than it seems.

Let’s get real here. If you’re asking “is Kia Forte an electric car?”, you’re not alone. Many people are drawn to the Forte’s futuristic styling and tech features, which can make it *feel* like an EV. But the truth is a bit more grounded. In this article, we’ll explore what the Kia Forte actually is, how it compares to electric and hybrid models, and whether it might still be the right choice for your lifestyle—even if it’s not fully electric. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend road-tripper, or someone just trying to cut fuel costs, we’ll cover everything you need to know with honesty, clarity, and a few real-world insights.

What Is the Kia Forte? A Closer Look at the Model

The Kia Forte has been a solid contender in the compact sedan segment for years. First launched in 2008, it’s evolved into a well-rounded, affordable, and reliable car. But to answer the burning question—is Kia Forte an electric car?—we need to look at what powers it.

Engine and Powertrain Options

The current generation of the Kia Forte (as of 2024) comes with internal combustion engines (ICE), not electric motors. Here’s what you’ll find under the hood:

• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (standard on most trims): Produces around 147 horsepower. It’s paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), which Kia markets as a CVT (continuously variable transmission). This setup is designed for smooth, fuel-efficient driving.
• 1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (available on the GT trim): Bumps power up to 201 horsepower. It’s paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), giving it a sportier feel—perfect for drivers who want a little more zip.

Neither of these engines is electric. There’s no battery pack, no charging port, and no regenerative braking system like you’d find in a true EV. The Forte runs on gasoline—plain and simple.

Now, you might be thinking, “But Kia has EVs like the EV6 and Niro EV. Why not a Forte EV?” That’s a great point. Kia is investing heavily in electrification, but the Forte hasn’t made the leap—yet. For now, it’s a gas-powered compact sedan with a few eco-friendly touches, like start-stop technology to save fuel at traffic lights.

Trim Levels and Features

The Forte comes in several trims: LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. While none are electric, they do offer features that might *feel* electric-car-like:

• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless on higher trims)
• Digital instrument cluster (on GT-Line and up)
• Kia Connect (remote start, climate control, and vehicle status via app)
• Advanced safety suite (lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring)

These features can make the Forte feel high-tech and modern—almost like a Tesla or Hyundai Ioniq 5. But again, the powertrain is 100% gasoline. So while the tech is forward-thinking, the engine is still old-school.

Kia’s Electric Vehicle Lineup: Where Does Forte Fit In?

Kia is definitely going electric. The company has pledged to have 14 EVs by 2027, and they’re already making waves with models like the EV6, EV9, and Niro EV. But where does the Forte fit into this electrified future?

Current Kia EVs (2024)

Let’s look at the electric models Kia currently offers:

• Kia EV6: A sleek, high-performance crossover with up to 310 miles of range. It’s built on a dedicated EV platform (E-GMP), supports ultra-fast charging, and has a 0–60 mph time as quick as 5 seconds.
• Kia EV9: A three-row electric SUV with up to 304 miles of range. It’s spacious, luxurious, and packed with tech.
• Kia Niro EV: A compact hatchback with around 253 miles of range. It’s practical, affordable, and shares some DNA with the Forte—but is fully electric.

Notice something? None of these are sedans like the Forte. Kia has chosen to electrify its SUVs and crossovers first—likely because those are more profitable and appeal to a broader market. The Forte, being a compact sedan, is in a segment that’s shrinking as buyers shift toward SUVs and EVs.

Could There Be a Forte EV in the Future?

It’s not impossible. Kia has already shown a concept called the **Kia EV3**, a smaller electric SUV that could hint at future compact EVs. And with the success of the Niro EV, it’s possible Kia could develop a Forte EV or a similar electric sedan.

But here’s the catch: the Forte’s platform (the K2) isn’t designed for electric powertrains. Converting it would require a full redesign—something Kia hasn’t announced. So while a Forte EV *could* happen in the next 5–10 years, it’s not on the immediate roadmap.

Pro tip: If you’re set on an electric Kia sedan, keep an eye on Kia’s upcoming EV4 and EV5 models. They’re expected to be smaller, more affordable EVs—possibly filling the gap where a Forte EV might go.

Gas vs. Electric: How the Forte Compares to True EVs

Now that we know the Kia Forte is not an electric car, let’s see how it stacks up against actual EVs in key areas: cost, fuel/energy use, performance, and convenience.

1. Upfront Cost and Incentives

The Forte starts at around $20,000 (LX trim), making it one of the most affordable new cars on the market. In contrast, the Kia Niro EV starts at about $40,000, and the EV6 starts at $48,000.

EVs do have a big advantage: federal tax credits. As of 2024, qualifying EVs can get up to $7,500 in tax credits. Some states (like California) offer additional rebates. The Forte, being gas-powered, doesn’t qualify for these incentives.

Real-world example: I have a friend who bought a Niro EV last year. After the federal credit and a $2,000 state rebate, her effective price dropped to $30,500. That’s not far off from a loaded Forte GT—but with zero gas costs.

2. Fuel vs. Charging Costs

The Forte gets about 30–35 MPG combined, depending on the trim. With gas averaging $3.50 per gallon, you’d spend roughly $117 to drive 1,000 miles.

An EV like the Niro EV, with an efficiency of 3.7 mi/kWh and electricity at $0.15/kWh, would cost about $40 for the same distance. That’s a savings of over $70 per 1,000 miles.

But—and this is a big but—charging convenience matters. If you live in an apartment without home charging, relying on public chargers can be a hassle. The Forte’s gas station refueling is still faster and more widely available than fast charging, especially in rural areas.

3. Maintenance and Longevity

EVs have fewer moving parts. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no transmission fluid. The Forte, like any ICE car, needs regular maintenance: oil changes every 7,500 miles, transmission service, brake inspections, etc.

That said, the Forte is known for reliability. J.D. Power gives it a 82/100 for quality and reliability (above average for its class). Kia also offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty—one of the best in the industry.

EVs can have issues too, though. Battery degradation is a real concern. After 10 years, most EV batteries lose 10–20% of their capacity. Gas engines, if maintained well, can last 200,000+ miles with minimal degradation.

4. Driving Experience

The Forte is a smooth, comfortable daily driver. The GT trim is fun to drive, with responsive steering and decent acceleration. But it doesn’t have the instant torque or silent operation of an EV.

EVs like the EV6 or Niro EV deliver instant acceleration and a whisper-quiet cabin. They also have lower centers of gravity (thanks to floor-mounted batteries), which improves handling.

My take: If you love the feel of a quiet, powerful car, an EV wins. But if you prefer a familiar driving experience with a bit of engine sound and manual control, the Forte holds its own.

Who Should Consider the Kia Forte (Even Without Electricity)?

So, if the Forte isn’t electric, who should buy it? Let’s break it down.

1. Budget-Conscious Buyers

The Forte is one of the most affordable new cars. With a starting price under $21,000, it’s perfect for first-time buyers, students, or anyone who wants a reliable car without breaking the bank.

You also get a lot of standard features for the price: automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a 8-inch touchscreen. Try finding that in a $20k EV—it’s almost impossible right now.

2. Drivers with Long or Unpredictable Commutes

EVs are great for city driving, but range anxiety is real on long trips. The Forte can go 400+ miles on a single tank. Fill up in 5 minutes, and you’re back on the road.

I once took my sister’s Forte on a 300-mile road trip. We filled up once, drove all day, and never worried about finding a charger. That kind of freedom is hard to beat.

3. People Who Prefer Simplicity

EVs come with a learning curve: charging schedules, home charger installation, understanding range, etc. The Forte is simple. Gas station? Fill up. Maintenance? Follow the schedule. No apps, no timers, no range calculators.

For many, that simplicity is a feature—not a flaw.

4. Buyers Who Want a Proven Track Record

The Forte has been around for 15+ years. It’s been tested, reviewed, and driven by millions. You know what you’re getting. EVs, especially new models, are still evolving. Some early models have had software glitches or battery issues.

The Forte isn’t flashy, but it’s dependable. And sometimes, dependability is the most important thing.

Alternatives: Electric and Hybrid Options from Kia and Competitors

If you’re set on going electric or hybrid, here are some great alternatives—many from Kia itself.

Kia Niro EV

• Range: 253 miles
• Price: $40,000–$45,000
• Pros: Affordable for an EV, great tech, spacious interior
• Cons: Slower charging than EV6, smaller cargo space

The Niro EV is the closest thing to a Forte EV. It’s a compact car with similar dimensions, but fully electric. If you like the Forte’s size but want zero emissions, this is your best bet.

Kia EV6

• Range: Up to 310 miles (RWD)
• Price: $48,000–$60,000
• Pros: Fast charging (10–80% in 18 minutes), sporty performance, premium interior
• Cons: Expensive, less cargo space than SUVs

For those who want a true electric experience, the EV6 is a standout. It’s not a sedan, but it’s close in size and offers a futuristic drive.

Hyundai Elantra Hybrid / Kona Electric

Hyundai, Kia’s sister brand, offers the Elantra Hybrid (up to 54 MPG) and Kona Electric (258 miles). Both are direct competitors to the Forte and offer electrified options.

The Elantra Hybrid starts at around $25,000—just a few thousand more than a Forte GT—but with much better fuel economy.

Data Table: Kia Forte vs. Electric/Hybrid Alternatives

Model	Type	Starting Price	MPG / Range	Tax Credit Eligible?
Kia Forte	Gasoline	$20,090	31–35 MPG	No
Kia Niro EV	Electric	$39,650	253 miles	Yes
Kia EV6	Electric	$48,700	310 miles (RWD)	Yes
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid	Hybrid	$25,050	50–54 MPG	No
Kia K5 Hybrid	Hybrid	$26,000	50 MPG	No

The Verdict: Is the Kia Forte an Electric Car? And Should You Buy One?

Let’s circle back to the original question: is Kia Forte an electric car? The answer is a clear no. It’s a gasoline-powered compact sedan with modern features and a reliable engine. It doesn’t plug in, it doesn’t run on batteries, and it won’t give you that silent, torque-filled EV experience.

But that doesn’t mean it’s a bad car. In fact, for many people, the Forte is still an excellent choice. It’s affordable, dependable, and packed with value. If you’re on a tight budget, have a long commute, or just prefer the simplicity of a gas car, the Forte delivers.

However, if you’re ready to embrace electrification—whether for environmental reasons, lower fuel costs, or the joy of driving an EV—then the Forte isn’t the right fit. Look instead to the Niro EV, EV6, or even the Elantra Hybrid for a more eco-friendly option.

Here’s my advice: Don’t buy a car based on trends. Buy one based on your life. If you live in a city with charging stations, drive less than 100 miles a day, and want to save on fuel, go electric. But if you’re in a rural area, take long trips, or just want a no-fuss car, the Forte is a smart, practical choice.

And hey—Kia is moving toward electrification fast. Maybe in a few years, we’ll see a Forte EV. But for now, the Forte is what it is: a great gas-powered sedan in a world that’s slowly going electric. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kia Forte an electric car?

No, the Kia Forte is not an electric car. It is a compact sedan powered by gasoline engines, including a 2.0L 4-cylinder and a 1.6L turbocharged option.

Does the Kia Forte have an all-electric version?

Currently, Kia does not offer an all-electric variant of the Forte. The lineup includes traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models and a mild-hybrid system in select trims.

Is the Kia Forte a hybrid or electric car?

The Kia Forte is primarily a gas-powered car, though some newer trims feature a 48V mild-hybrid system to improve fuel efficiency. It is not a plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle.

What fuel type does the Kia Forte use?

The Kia Forte runs on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended). There is no electric or alternative fuel configuration available for this model.

Why isn’t the Kia Forte an electric car?

The Forte is designed as an affordable, efficient gasoline-powered compact sedan. Kia reserves its electric powertrain technology for dedicated EV models like the Kia EV6.

Will Kia make an electric Forte in the future?

While Kia hasn’t confirmed plans for an electric Forte, the brand is expanding its EV lineup. An electrified Forte could align with Kia’s 2030 electrification goals, but nothing is official yet.