2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2020 Kia Forte

The 2020 Kia Forte GT was a standout in its lineup, featuring a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission, and sport-tuned suspension. It had a sophisticated yet understated design, with styling modifications like revised bumpers, a black lip spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets that hinted at its performance potential. Inside, the Forte GT offered a modern and sporty ambiance with red seat piping, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and gloss black trim. The transmission shifter provided a solid feel, enhancing the overall sense of quality.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid boasted a bold and aggressive exterior design that set it apart from its predecessor and other hybrid sedans. The test model's matte gray paint and integrated deck-lid spoiler added to its striking appearance. Inside, the Sonata Hybrid's cabin was more conventional, with soft-touch surfaces and a modern haptic bezel surrounding the vivid touchscreen infotainment system. The seats were comfortable and supportive, making it suitable for long journeys, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT was equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 pound-feet of torque between 1,500 rpm and 4,500 rpm. This was a significant upgrade from the 147-hp 2.0-liter engine in other Forte models. The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) provided power to the front wheels, offering a well-behaved and responsive driving experience. The Forte GT featured a sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust system, and larger brakes, enhancing its performance capabilities. It offered driving modes like Normal, Sport, and Smart, allowing drivers to tailor their experience. The car's handling was impressive, with a firm ride quality and precise steering, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and battery pack, producing a total of 192 horsepower. Power was delivered to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid acceleration, especially for a hybrid, and featured drive modes like Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the auto stop-start system was minimally intrusive. The Sonata Hybrid's driving dynamics were refined, with light yet precise steering and minimal body roll in turns. The brakes provided solid stopping power with a soft pedal feel.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT featured front sport seats with cloth inserts and Sofino simulated leather bolsters, with full Sofino leatherette available in the GT2 Package. The 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat provided excellent support, and the heated front seats were a welcome addition on cold mornings. The backseat offered good comfort with a tall cushion and proper support. The Forte GT's Smart Trunk technology allowed for hands-free access, revealing a spacious 15.3 cubic-foot cargo area. Interior storage was generous, with a wireless smartphone charging pad and ample storage compartments.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offered 16 cubic feet of trunk space, one of the largest among midsize hybrid sedans. The cabin provided ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space, accommodating four adults comfortably. The sloping roofline affected rear door access, but once inside, headroom was adequate. Front passengers had cargo pockets in the doors and a well-sized center console. The wireless charging pad was conveniently located at the bottom of the center stack.

The 2020 Kia Forte came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The Forte EX and GT included SiriusXM satellite radio and Kia's Your Voice (UVO) technology. The GT2 Package added an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, though it struggled with ambient noise.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with the Limited trim offering a 10.25-inch screen with navigation and real-time traffic updates. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though CarPlay only occupied two-thirds of the screen. The touchscreen layout was intuitive, and the Limited trim included a wireless charging pad and a head-up display (HUD). However, the HUD's adjustability was limited for taller drivers.

The 2020 Kia Forte was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, equipped with numerous advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). The GT with the GT2 Package included all available safety features, though the automatic emergency braking system worked only at lower speeds. The lane-keeping and lane-centering assist systems were effective, but the system required hands on the steering wheel. The Forte GT also featured 911 Connect and programmable alerts for speed, curfew, and geographical boundaries.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added a head-up display, 360-degree surround-view parking monitor, and parking sensors. The Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top marks for its driver-assistance features and optional LED headlights.