2023 Kia Forte vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by many competitors. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, the E-Class came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered a more powerful engine and a luxurious driving experience, though they were not the most cost-effective choice. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, was a testament to luxury, albeit at a high price point. The design of the E-Class was both modern and pure, with AMG styling and intricate wheels enhancing its appeal. Inside, the high-end spec featured digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather, exuding luxury.

The 2023 Kia Forte, a compact sedan, retained some of Kia's older design cues while incorporating newer styling elements. The double-tab grille and LED headlights and taillights were notable features, with the GT trims adding LED fog lights and red accents. The Forte's design was more typical of its class, but it maintained a graceful shape. The interior held onto Kia's older layout, with a touchscreen atop the dash and traditional climate controls. The Forte's interior materials were superior to its rivals, with soft-touch surfaces and sturdy construction. Cloth seats were standard, with synthetic leather in the GT models. The Forte's rear seats had more hard plastic surfaces, but the overall cabin remained competitive against newer sedans.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 models featured a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided robust throttle response across a wide rev range, with an acceleration time of 4.6 seconds to 100 km/h. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the pavement. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, along with optional 20-inch wheels, enhanced its driving dynamics. The car's dual personality allowed it to be a quiet cruiser or a spirited performer, with AMG Dynamic Select driving modes transforming its character. Despite some cowl shake, the E53 Cabriolet felt solid and sure-footed, with a thrilling exhaust note. The car's three-season suitability was highlighted by its heated features and AWD system, making it a versatile choice for various weather conditions.

The 2023 Kia Forte offered two engine choices: a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 147 horsepower and a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower. The base engine, paired with a CVT, provided adequate performance, while the GT Limited's turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension delivered more excitement. The GT Limited's dual-clutch transmission offered better power delivery, though it could be jumpy at lower speeds. The Forte's handling was sportier than expected, with precise steering and a comfortable ride quality. The GT Limited's suspension balanced improved handling with comfort, though road noise was noticeable. Overall, the Forte's performance was competitive within its class.

The Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence, while heated seats and a heated steering wheel were standard. The test car featured rapid-heating front seats, heated armrests, and the Airscarf neck-warming system. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather, and the triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet. The multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance interior fragrance system enhanced long drives. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top raised, but this was reduced by half when the top was down.

The Kia Forte's front seats provided ample space for taller passengers, with basic adjustments ensuring comfort on long drives. The dashboard and centre console layout placed controls within easy reach, and heated front seats and keyless entry were standard. Higher trims offered a heated steering wheel, sunroof, and dual-zone climate control. The Forte's cabin featured a rubberized phone tray, wireless charger, and various storage options. Rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, with higher trims offering heated seats and air conditioning vents. The trunk held 433 litres of cargo, more than some competitors, with remote seatback releases for added convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, renowned for its digital instrumentation and ease of use. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation of MBUX, offering high-resolution displays. Interaction options included the touchscreen, steering wheel controls, digital voice assistant, and centre console controls. MBUX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi service, and an augmented reality navigation overlay. A head-up display and Burmester surround-sound audio system were available. The system's complexity required acclimation, but it was intuitive for smartphone users. The digital assistant could be accidentally activated, especially in a convertible with the top down.

The 2023 Kia Forte's infotainment system featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display with navigation on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad available on the EX grade. The GT Limited offered a premium Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was responsive, with logical menu organization and shortcut buttons. While the Forte's tech features met class expectations, wireless phone integration issues were noted in the test vehicle, though this was considered an anomaly.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for collisions and protecting occupants' hearing. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking, while rain-sensing wipers with Magic Vision Control improved visibility. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and other advanced features. The package impressed with its adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist.

The 2023 Kia Forte received four out of five stars from the NHTSA for overall protection, with some base forward collision features not meeting performance criteria. The IIHS awarded the Forte "Good" ratings, except for "Poor" in updated tests. In Canada, most safety features were available from the EX trim, including forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The EX Premium added advanced collision warning and adaptive cruise control, while the GT-Line and GT Limited featured Kia’s Highway Driving Assist system.