2014 Kia Forte vs. Hyundai Elantra

The Forte and the Elantra are interesting cars to review because both automakers are owned by the same parent company, and they share the same platform, the same powertrain, and some of the other included technology. However, each manufacturer is unique, and both cars feel different. If you are looking for a 2014 Kia Forte or a 2014 Hyundai Elantra in Patterson, NJ, you'll want to know what those differences are, as well as the similarities.

Fuel Economy: The Elantra Advantage

The Elantra has a slight advantage over the Forte when it comes to fuel economy. It achieves an EPA-estimated 24 miles per gallon in the city, compared to the Forte's 21, and 38 miles per gallon for highway driving, compared to the Forte's 37.

Exterior: The Look of These Vehicles

The Hyundai Elantra was introduced in 2011 for the first time, and that model was an edgy, more modern design that car buyers were used to seeing. The 2014 Forte has some of that same look, but it is also heavily influenced by European auto trends. Both vehicles are new interpretations of the compact car, and both look modern, sporty, and stylish. The Elantra has both a two-door style and a five-door hatchback style. The Forte comes in a two-door "Koup" as well as a five-door hatchback. Both have four-door sedan versions.

Interior: What's It Like Inside?

The Elantra has a very cool hourglass-shaped console, which is certainly a head turner for an auto buyer. The Forte has a simplified interior that is also sporty and looks great. Both interiors are easy to navigate, and choosing one is difficult because it comes down to a matter of personal taste. Both of these vehicles have almost exactly the same interior dimensions as well.

Performance and Power

The Forte now has the same powertrain as the Elantra, which the Elantra has been sporting since 2011. The Forte features a 2.0-liter engine with 173 horsepower (also offered by the Elantra), which is a major improvement over the 148-horsepower, 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder that was on the Elantra and the base model Forte.

The Elantra gets three-mode steering on the SE and LTD models and has a bigger stabilizer bar on the Sport model and better shocks and springs. However, the Forte has better rear suspension and is quieter. The electric power steering in the Forte also outshines the Elantra.

Price: The Forte Shines Here