2022 Kia Forte vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was a nod to its predecessor, the 2008 Lexus IS F, maintaining the essence of a powerful, naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine. This engine delivered an impressive 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, channelled to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The IS 500 F Sport Performance was a blend of thrilling performance and everyday comfort, offering a dynamic driving experience with its adaptive suspension and refined interior. Despite its high price tag, it provided a unique balance of emotional excitement and practical dependability, making it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Forte offered a range of trims, with the GT Limited standing out for its sporty appeal. The Forte GT Limited featured a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It boasted a sport-tuned suspension and distinctive styling elements, such as red-accent detailing and larger wheels. While it wasn't a full-fledged performance sedan, the Forte GT Limited provided a spirited driving experience, making it an attractive option for those seeking a sporty yet practical compact car.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was a powerhouse, equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 engine that produced 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This rear-wheel-drive sedan featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, offering driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+. The IS 500 could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, thanks to its adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper. Despite its weight distribution of 56% front and 44% rear, the IS 500 delivered a thrilling driving experience, though it wasn't particularly fuel-efficient, averaging 13.3 L/100 km.

The 2022 Kia Forte GT Limited, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and sport-tuned suspension, offering Smart, Normal, and Sport driving modes. The Forte GT Limited provided a lively driving experience, with ample passing power and a good balance of ride and handling. However, its brakes struggled during demanding driving, and it wasn't as quiet on the highway. The Forte GT Limited averaged 9.1 L/100 km during testing, falling short of its official fuel economy rating.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance offered a comfortable interior with effective climate control, including seat heaters and a heated steering wheel. The front seats were snug yet supportive, while the rear seats provided adequate space for average-sized adults. However, the trunk space was limited to 305 litres, and the centre console's touchpad controller took up valuable storage space. The IS featured a well-organized control layout, with buttons and knobs for easy operation.

In comparison, the 2022 Kia Forte GT Limited excelled in interior space and comfort. It featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. The rear seats offered generous headroom and legroom, with a large trunk capacity of 433 litres. The Forte's interior was practical, with fold-down rear seats for expanded cargo space, making it a versatile choice for families and commuters.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance came with a touchscreen infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a dynamic voice command system. The IS 500 Premium added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, delivering impressive sound quality. The controls were intuitive, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Kia Forte offered a range of technology features, with higher trims like the GT Limited boasting a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available on lower trims, the GT Limited required a cable connection. The Forte's infotainment system was user-friendly, though its voice recognition capabilities were inconsistent. The GT Limited also featured an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, providing good audio quality.

The 2022 Lexus IS was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. The IS received top safety ratings, earning a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received a four-star frontal-impact rating.

The 2022 Kia Forte offered a range of safety technologies, with higher trims featuring adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist. The Forte received high marks from the IIHS for crashworthiness, though testing of the revised LED headlights was incomplete. The NHTSA awarded the Forte a four-star overall rating, noting concerns with rear passenger injury potential in side impacts.