2024 Kia Forte vs. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review

Picture of the 2024 Kia Forte

2024 Kia
Forte

MSRP*: $19,990 to $25,390
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Picture of the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

2024 Volkswagen
Jetta GLI

MSRP*: $28,085 to $32,585
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MPG - City 22 - 30 MPG 24 - 26 MPG
MPG - Hwy 31 - 41 MPG 35 - 36 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 147-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 201-hp, 1.6-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 228-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic, Continuously Variable, Manual Automatic, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 147 - 201 hp 228 hp
Exterior Length 182.7 in 186.9 in
Exterior Width 70.9 in 70.8 in
Leg Room Front 42.2 in
Rear 35.7 in
Front 41.1 in
Rear 37.4 in
Head Room Front 38.8 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 37.9 - 38.5 in
Rear 37.2 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
Passengers in the back seat will feel a little more squished in the Kia Forte than in the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, due to the Kia Forte's smaller rear head- and legroom. Offering just a little more front head- and legroom than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the Kia Forte may be a little roomier and more comfortable for the driver and front seat passengers.

Convenience
The Kia Forte will require fewer stops at the gas station than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, making it more convenient to drive.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Based on MSRP, the Kia Forte is clearly a better financial choice over the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

Dimensions
The Kia Forte is about the same width as the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. The Kia Forte is slightly shorter than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, which may make it easier to park.

Handling
The Kia Forte has a smaller turning radius than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Kia Forte is significantly less powerful than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

Powertrain
The Kia Forte has much less torque than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Kia Forte and the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.