2022 Kia Forte vs 2023 Honda Accord

The 2022 Kia Forte offered a range of six trim levels, with the GT Limited standing out for its sporty appeal and comprehensive features. This model came with a Steel Grey paint finish, carpeted floor mats, and an MSRP of $32,084, including a destination charge. The Forte GT Limited was equipped with a new grille, headlights, and bumpers, along with exclusive red-accent detailing, a gloss black lip spoiler, and 18-inch wheels, which enhanced its sporty look. The interior featured a 4.2-inch driver information display, an electronic parking brake, and improved infotainment systems. The GT Limited's cabin was adorned with simulated leather, polished metal accents, and a sporty steering wheel, providing a Germanic touch to its design.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Accord underwent a redesign, adopting a more modern yet conservative appearance. The Accord EX, priced at $37,000 in Canada, featured a dark grille, LED headlights, and a Canyon River Blue paint that garnered compliments. The interior boasted durable cloth seats with contrast stitching and a stylish metal mesh dashboard trim. The Accord's digital instrumentation and touchscreen infotainment system reflected attention to detail and refinement. Despite its conservative design, the Accord EX was well-outfitted for its price and class, offering a comfortable and functional interior.

The 2022 Kia Forte's mechanical components largely carried over from the previous year, with most trims featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The GT Limited trim, however, offered a more exhilarating experience with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and sport-tuned suspension, providing a spirited driving experience. Despite its fun-to-drive nature, the Forte GT Limited's brakes struggled during demanding descents, and its fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 9.1 L/100 km on the test loop.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 192 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) powered the front wheels, offering adequate performance for the 1,493-kilogram vehicle. The Accord's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension managed its weight distribution effectively, while the dual-pinion steering system provided good response and road feel. The Accord EX returned 8.2 L/100 km on the evaluation route, slightly above the expected 7.3 L/100 km. The Accord's brakes performed well under stress, and its dynamic tuning inspired confidence on winding roads, although the tires could have offered more grip.

The 2022 Kia Forte GT Limited came with a host of standard features, including a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sunroof. The interior was comfortable for long journeys, with a height-adjustable front passenger seat and rear air conditioning vents. The Forte's rear seat offered good headroom and legroom, and the trunk provided 433 litres of cargo space, the largest in its segment.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX featured heated exterior mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat. However, it lacked a power-adjustable front passenger seat and rear air conditioning vents. The back seat offered excellent leg support and was easy to access, while the trunk provided 473 litres of storage space. The Accord's interior was functional, with numerous storage locations, but the hard plastic lining the centre console was a source of discomfort.

For 2022, the Kia Forte offered new technology features, including a rear-seat USB port and remote engine starting capability. The EX Premium trim and lower offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with an 8-inch touchscreen, while the GT-Line and GT Limited featured a 10.25-inch display with additional features. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition capabilities were hit-and-miss.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX came with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Bluetooth connectivity, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and HondaLink connected services. The Accord's infotainment system was basic yet functional, with physical controls for the stereo and main functions. However, it lacked SiriusXM satellite radio, and the voice recognition system worked well with Apple's digital assistant.

The 2022 Kia Forte offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and Highway Driving Assist. The Forte received high marks from the IIHS for crashworthiness and driving assist systems, though the NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash protection rating.

The 2023 Honda Accord came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Accord also featured a reversing camera, automatic high-beam headlights, and blind-spot monitoring. The Honda Sensing suite performed with accuracy and refinement, and the Accord earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.