Looking for a compact sedan that meets all your needs? The 2024 Kia Forte and 2024 Nissan Sentra are popular contenders when it comes to comfort and safety, but only one can rise to the top. Let’s look at the pros and cons of both!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The 2024 Kia Forte has double the trims of this year’s Nissan Sentra and lower price points.
- The Forte’s infotainment touchscreen dwarfs the Sentra’s, particularly with the optional upgrade.
- While both sedans are safe, the Sentra doesn’t have all the safety features the Forte has.
Price and Trims: The Forte
The Forte has double the trims of the Sentra. That means, you have more options when it comes to finding the specific sedan you had in mind.
- LX: $19,990
- LXS: $20,490
- GT-Line: $22,490
- GT: $24,690
- GT Manual: $25,390
While competitively priced, the Sentra’s three options are slightly higher in price than the Forte’s equivalent trims.
- S: $21,180
- SR: $22,110
- SRV: $24,270
Powertrain Potential: The Forte
Performance is everything, even in a sedan, and the Forte does not disappoint. While its standard 2.0L 4-cylinder engine generates an impressive 147 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque, it is slightly outpaced by the Senta’s 2.0L 4-cylinder engine delivering 149 horsepower and 146 lb.-ft. of torque. However, the Forte’s 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder system blows doors off the competition, at 201 horsepower and 196 lb.-ft. of torque.
The Forte comes with standard Intelligent Variable Transmission and the option of 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch alternatives. These options do not exist in the Senta, which comes only with a Continuously Variable Transmission.
Comfort and Tech: The Forte
Both the Forte and Sentra are roomy with all the latest bells and whistles, but the Forte has the edge on comfort for all occupants. Let’s look at seating—the Forte’s six-way manual driver’s seat has the option of a 10-way power-adjustment and ventilation function for the front-row. The Sentra has no such ventilation option.
In terms of connectivity, the Forte’s tech cannot be beat—it comes standard with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen system that can be upgraded to a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen system display. Push-button start, remote access (thanks to the Kia Access app) and highway driving assist are also optional. The Senta’s screen is a bit smaller—at 7-inches but can be upgraded to 8-inches in the premium trims.
Safety: The Forte
When it comes to safety, the Kia Forte excels thanks to its available Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, semi-autonomous steering force and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. There’s also an available Highway Driving Assist that makes sure you and your Forte stay centered while on the road.
If the Sentra is still first and foremost in your mind—this category may be the deal breaker. The Sentra does not offer any of the technologies mentioned above.
The Best Vehicle for You
We know buying a new car is a hard decision. If you’re still not convinced of the 2024 Kia Forte’s many benefits, there’s only one way to be sure. It’s time to visit Alan J. Kia and take the Forte for a test drive. Don't hesitate to contact our representatives today!