Kia Forte vs. Honda Civic Indianapolis

Efficiency and Performance

The base Forte and Civic both utilize 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engines delivering around 150 horsepower combined with a CVT for smooth, efficient operation. Upgrade to the available 1.5-liter turbo in the Civic or 1.6-liter turbo in the Forte, and you’ll get a fun boost in power.

The Civic also offers a six-speed manual on certain trims. When it comes to fuel economy, these two match up evenly with EPA ratings in the mid-30s combined. Overall performance is peppy from both cars, while higher trims add a sportier edge.

With similar engine options in both vehicles, the best way to know which one suits you best is to schedule a test drive and see for yourself.

Quality and Technology

Kia and Honda are known for their high-quality interiors using attractive materials and smart ergonomic designs. You’ll find supportive seats, intuitive controls, and all the latest tech like large touchscreens, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and advanced safety systems. The Civic offers slightly more passenger room, but the Forte counters with more cargo capacity. Feature content varies by trim, so be sure to compare models closely to get the options you want. If you love tech, the Kia Forte is the way to go. It has a larger infotainment screen and a slightly better standard safety kit.

Value and Peace of Mind

With starting prices around $18,000, the Forte and Civic represent strong, compact car values. Kia boasts one of the industry’s longest powertrain warranties at ten years/100,000 miles versus five years/60,000 miles from Honda. When considering the cost of ownership over time, either model can be a smart choice, but Kia’s warranty provides a little more peace of mind.