Kia K4 vs. Kia Forte Specs: Performance

Innovation is a cornerstone of the Kia lineup, influencing everything from its expanding all-electric selection to the infotainment technologies available in each cabin. One way Kia is shaking up its portfolio is by introducing the new Kia K4 sedan to the Jackson streets and discontinuing its sister model, the Kia Forte. With the introduction and phase-out of the two models overlapping, many drivers are wondering: Is the Kia K4 replacing the Forte?

Yes! The new Kia K4 is the spiritual successor to the Kia Forte, offering much of the same cabin space, performance, and amenities as its predecessor. See all the differences between the two sedans in this Kia K4 vs. Forte comparison from Wilson KIA to learn more about what you can expect from the latest Kia sedan.

Kia K4 vs. Kia Forte Specs: Performance

When comparing the Kia Forte vs. Kia K4, the first difference many drivers notice is performance. Though each model offers the same two engines across its lineup, those wanting an extra burst of speed on their Flowood drives should opt for the 2024 Kia Forte. That said, the 2025 Kia K4 lineup only alters the available horsepower by 11 hp, a minuscule difference that most drivers won’t notice during their daily commutes. Compare the Kia K4 vs. Kia Forte specs for each engine below for all the details:

2025 Kia K4 Engine Options

• 2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque

• 1.6L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque

2024 Kia Forte Engine Options

• 2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque

• 1.6L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque

Kia K4 vs. Kia Forte Specs: Seating & Cargo Capacity

With the Kia K4 replacing the Forte, the engineers at Kia took the opportunity to fine-tune the design to provide more space inside the cabin. While both offer seating for up to five, the 2025 Kia K4 interior provides a little more space to stretch out at the expense of its trunk size. Explore how much space each sedan offers with the Kia K4 vs. Forte dimension breakdown below:

2025 Kia K4 Standard Interior Dimensions

• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers

• Headroom (Front/Rear): 39 inches / 37.3 inches

• Shoulder Room (Front/Rear): 56.5 inches / 54.7 inches

• Hip Room (Front/Rear): 53.3 inches / 51.9 inches

• Legroom (Front/Rear): 42.3 inches / 38 inches

• Cargo Volume: 14.6 cubic feet

2024 Kia Forte Standard Interior Dimensions

• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers

• Headroom (Front/Rear): 38.8 inches / 37.5 inches

• Shoulder Room (Front/Rear): 56.1 inches / 55.3 inches

• Hip Room (Front/Rear): 53 inches / 51.1 inches

• Legroom (Front/Rear): 42.2 inches / 35.7 inches

• Cargo Volume: 15.3 cubic feet

Kia K4 vs. Forte: Amenities

Even with all the changes between the outgoing Kia Forte and the new Kia K4, drivers will still enjoy a wide selection of comfort, convenience, and connectivity features on their Ridgeland drives. Regardless of which Kia you prefer, you’ll find available amenities such as:

• Dual-zone auto climate control
• Heated, power-adjustable front seats
• Digital instrument display
• Touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ smartphone compatibility
• Kia Connect
• Wireless phone charger
• Harman Kardon® Premium Audio Systems

Continue Your Kia Forte vs. Kia K4 Comparison at Wilson KIA

Want to learn more about the Kia K4 replacing the Forte and what kind of features you can expect on the new model? Reach out to Wilson KIA! Our team will schedule an appointment at our Brandon dealership to walk you through an even more detailed Kia Forte vs. Kia K4 comparison so you can get behind the wheel of the sedan that’s right for you.