2022 Kia Forte vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat

In 2011, when a Volkswagen Passat was launched customized for the North American market, VW thought the sedan was the key to domination. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry were still the default mid-size sedan choice for most buyers at that time, after all, particularly in the U.S. where mid-size cars were much more strongly preferred. A lot has changed since then: SUVs are surging in popularity, and a diesel-emissions scandal has forced VW to focus more on electric cars. With the flashier Arteon now in the lineup, however, the Passat has been repositioned as VW's value-focused midsize sedan. Both the Passat and the Arteon are nearing the end of their lives here in Canada as they’ll be discontinued at the end of the 2022 model year.

The Passat got a significant update for the 2020 model year, so changes for 2021 are fairly limited. The previously available Comfortline trim level is gone, leaving just the Highline and Execline models. Adaptive cruise control is now standard. Our test car was a U.S.-spec SE model, the closest Canadian equivalent of which would be the Highline, though some equipment varies.

With inflation and gas prices delivering a one-two punch to Canadian budgets, could compact cars like the 2022 Kia Forte make a comeback? The segment is full of good choices, and you can easily get one with all of the modern infotainment technology and safety features for under $30,000. Plus, today’s compact cars are the size of midsize sedans from a decade or two ago.

Good thing Kia has updated the Forte for the 2022 model year with sharper styling and new infotainment, driver assist, and collision avoidance systems. Just in case consumers decide their next ride needs to be thriftier and more affordable.