Looking for a new compact sedan? Learn how the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra stack up against each other in our detailed comparison of their design, features, performance, and value.
Exterior Design Comparison
When it comes to exterior design, both the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra boast sleek and modern aesthetics, but with distinct differences. The question is, which one resonates with your personal style?
Body Style and Dimensions
The Kia Forte is available in two body styles: a sedan and a hatchback. The sedan measures 182.7 inches in length, 71.3 inches in width, and 56.5 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 106.3 inches. On the other hand, the Nissan Sentra is only offered as a sedan, with a length of 182.1 inches, a width of 71.7 inches, and a height of 56.9 inches, sitting on a 106.3-inch wheelbase. While both cars have similar dimensions, the Forte’s slightly longer length and shorter height give it a more athletic stance.
Color Options and Wheel Designs
Both models offer a range of attractive colors, but the Kia Forte takes the lead with 10 options, including sleek metallic hues like Everlasting Silver and Gravity Gray. The Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, offers 8 color options, with limited availability of metallic colors. When it comes to wheel designs, the Forte boasts more aggressive and sporty options, such as the 17-inch gloss black wheels available on the GT trim. The Sentra’s wheel designs are more conservative, with a focus on functionality over form. Which design language do you prefer?
Interior Features and Space
When it comes to interior space, the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience. But which one does it better?
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
Let’s start with the basics. The Kia Forte offers a spacious interior with ample room for five passengers. The sedan boasts 96 cubic feet of passenger space, including 39.8 inches of headroom and 42.2 inches of legroom in the front seats. The rear seats are just as comfortable, with 37.5 inches of headroom and 35.7 inches of legroom. When it comes to cargo, the Forte has a generous 15.3 cubic feet of trunk space.
In comparison, the Nissan Sentra offers slightly less passenger space, with 95.9 cubic feet of room. However, the Sentra makes up for it with more headroom, offering 39.4 inches in the front seats and 37.4 inches in the rear seats. Legroom is similar, with 42.1 inches in the front and 34.7 inches in the rear. The Sentra’s trunk space is slightly smaller, with 13.2 cubic feet of cargo room. While both sedans offer sufficient space, the Forte’s slightly larger interior and cargo area give it an edge in this department.
Infotainment Systems and Tech Features
Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff – infotainment systems and tech features! The Kia Forte comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system. The available UVO eServices system provides a range of features, including navigation, real-time traffic updates, and remote vehicle access. The Forte also offers a range of convenience features, including a wireless charging tray, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 12-volt power outlet.
The Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, features a 7-inch touchscreen display, although an 8-inch display is available on higher trims. The Sentra also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a six-speaker audio system. The available NissanConnect system provides features like navigation, voice recognition, and mobile apps. While both sedans offer similar infotainment systems, the Forte’s more comprehensive range of features and available tech amenities give it an edge in this department.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra offer unique driving experiences. But which one will leave you feeling more thrilled behind the wheel?
Engine Options and Horsepower
Both vehicles offer a range of engine options to cater to different driving styles. The Kia Forte comes with two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that churns out 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, offers two engine options as well: a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
But what do these numbers mean for you, the driver? Essentially, the Kia Forte’s more powerful engine option gives it a slight edge over the Sentra in terms of acceleration and responsiveness. Imagine merging onto a busy highway – the Forte’s turbocharged engine provides the oomph you need to get up to speed quickly and confidently.
Transmission and Drive Modes
The transmission and drive mode options available in each vehicle can also impact your driving experience. The Kia Forte offers a six-speed manual transmission, a six-speed automatic transmission, and an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) that simulates the feel of a traditional automatic. The Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, offers a six-speed manual transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and an Xtronic continuously variable transmission.
In terms of drive modes, the Kia Forte offers a range of settings, including Normal, Sport, and Smart modes, which adjust the vehicle’s throttle response, transmission shifting, and steering feel to suit your driving style. The Nissan Sentra also offers a range of drive modes, including Sport and Eco modes, which tweak the vehicle’s performance to prioritize either power or efficiency. So, whether you’re looking for a more engaging driving experience or want to maximize fuel efficiency, both vehicles offer convenient and intuitive ways to customize your drive.
Safety Features and Ratings
When it comes to safety, both the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra are equipped with a plethora of features designed to protect you and your passengers on the road. But, how do they stack up against each other?
Active Safety Features
The Kia Forte offers an impressive list of active safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which can detect pedestrians, vehicles, and even cyclists. The system can automatically apply the brakes to prevent a collision or mitigate its severity. Additionally, the Forte features Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), which work in tandem to keep you within your lane. The Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, offers a similar suite of active safety features, including Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection and Intelligent Lane Intervention. However, the Sentra’s system is not as comprehensive as the Forte’s, with some features only available on higher trim levels.
Crash Test Ratings and Reliability
Both the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra have impressive crash test ratings from reputable organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Forte has received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and has been named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The Sentra also boasts a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but falls short of the IIHS’s Top Safety Pick+ designation. In terms of reliability, both models have good reputations, with the Forte scoring higher in reliability and durability ratings from organizations such as J.D. Power.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
When it comes to fuel efficiency, both the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra are designed to provide you with exceptional mileage without breaking the bank. But which one reigns supreme in this department? Let’s dive into the details.
MPG Comparison and Fuel Types
The Kia Forte boasts an impressive estimated EPA rating of up to 31 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway, depending on the trim level and transmission choice. The Nissan Sentra isn’t far behind, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 29 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway. Both vehicles offer a range of fuel types, including regular unleaded gasoline and premium gasoline for enhanced performance.
But what does this mean for you? Well, if you’re a city dweller who spends most of their time stuck in traffic, the Kia Forte might be the better choice. Its superior city MPG rating will save you money on fuel costs over time. On the other hand, if you’re a road warrior who clocks serious highway miles, the Nissan Sentra’s competitive highway MPG rating makes it a worthy contender.
Scheduled Maintenance and Warranty
Regular maintenance is crucial to extending the lifespan of your vehicle and preventing costly repairs down the line. Both the Kia Forte and Nissan Sentra offer comprehensive maintenance schedules to keep your car running smoothly.
The Kia Forte requires oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your driving habits, and features a range of maintenance alerts and reminders to keep you on track. The Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, recommends oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, with some models requiring synthetic oil.
In terms of warranty, the Kia Forte offers a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Nissan Sentra provides a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. While the Kia Forte’s warranty may seem more extensive, both vehicles offer robust protection against defects and repairs.
Pricing and Value
When it comes to making a decision between the Kia Forte and the Nissan Sentra, one of the most critical factors to consider is the price. After all, you want to get the most bang for your buck, right? In this section, we’ll delve into the pricing and value of both models, so you can make an informed decision.
Starting Prices and Trim Levels
The starting price of the Kia Forte is around $18,000 for the base model, while the top-of-the-line trim level will set you back around $24,000. The Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, starts at around $20,000 for the base model and tops out at around $23,000 for the highest trim level. But what do you get for your money?
Both models offer a range of trim levels, each with its own set of features and upgrades. The Kia Forte has four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and GT, while the Nissan Sentra has three: S, SV, and SR. As you move up the trim levels, you can expect to see improvements in areas like infotainment systems, safety features, and interior materials.
Feature-to-Price Ratio and Resale Value
So, which model offers the best value for your money? The answer to this question depends on what you’re looking for in a vehicle. If you prioritize interior space and comfort, the Kia Forte might be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more impressive feature set and better resale value, the Nissan Sentra might be the way to go.
In terms of feature-to-price ratio, the Kia Forte is a clear winner. You get a lot of standard features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, for a lower starting price than the Nissan Sentra. However, the Sentra has a more impressive list of available features, including adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. When it comes to resale value, the Sentra tends to hold its value better than the Forte, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to what matters most to you. Are you looking for a comfortable and feature-packed ride, or do you prioritize getting the most bang for your buck?