New 2010 Kia Forte vs. New 2010 Hyundai Elantra
Both Kia and Hyundai have emerged as top value brands in the world of autos. For those looking for an affordable small car, the new 2010 Kia Forte and 2010 Hyundai Elantra both offer tremendous value for the money. Keep reading to compare the strengths of each of these new cars to determine which one should be parked in your driveway.Exterior - Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra
Neither the Forte nor the Elantra is going to get you noticed on the road. However, they both offer a pleasing exterior design that should appeal to a wide variety of drivers. The Elantra takes a more rounded approach to design, and might be considered the "cuter" model of the two. The Forte, on the other hand, is a sleeker option that incorporates bolder edges and a more pulled-back appearance.
Interior - Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra
Inside, the Kia Forte offers an attractive level of comfort and available features. Seating is posh compared to much of the competition, and four normal-sized adults will find the Forte well-accommodating (max. seating capacity is five). The 14.7 cubic feet of trunk space is also the best in its class.
The Hyundai Elantra, however, is no slouch either. Both front and rear comfort is comparable to the 2010 Kia Forte. Rear trunk capacity comes up a little short at 14.2 cubic feet.
The big difference between the interiors of these two vehicles is standard and optional amenities. With a laundry list of standard features that includes steering-wheel audio controls, satellite radio, iPod input and Bluetooth connectivity, the Kia Forte rides away as the clear winner in terms of technology. The Elantra, while certainly not barren, simply can't compete with this starting package. However, the Elantra's standard split rear seat does provide more storage versatility than the immobile rear bench of the Kia.
Performance - Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra
Both the Forte and Elantra are designed for leisurely around-town driving and highway use. While not particularly quick, engine performance is adequate enough and should meet the needs of the average commuter. Of the two, the Forte offers a little extra zip, with a 2.0-liter base engine that musters 156 horsepower (the Elantra starts with 138 horsepower). However, the Elantra offers less body roll and may win you over with its excellent handling. For those who want a little extra oomph, the Forte is also available with an upgrade 173-hp 2.4-liter engine.
The Forte edges out the Elantra in terms fuel efficiency. At its best, the Forte earns 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway (30 mpg combined). The Elantra starts at 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway (29 mpg combined).
Safety - Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra
The new 2010 Hyundai Elantra comes standard with six airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes and electronic brakeforce distribution. The new Kia Forte ups the ante by adding brake-assist and stability control as standard features (both are optional on the Elantra).
In crash tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) names the 2010 Kia Forte a "Top Safety Pick." The Hyundai Elantra also receives high marks, with a best-possible IIHS rating of "Good."
Pricing - Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra
The Kia Forte starts at $13,695, while the Hyundai Elantra comes with a base MSRP of $14,145. Given the Forte's better starting package, it may be the best value for you. This is especially true when you consider the quick escalation in price that comes with adding optional features to the Elantra. For some, however, the extra price may be worth it. The Elantra is generally considered a more reliable car over the long haul, meaning that it may save you money in repairs if you intend on driving it for more than four or five years.