Any thoughts that a compact sedan isn’t capable of leaving a lasting positive impression were shredded during a week-long test drive of the 2023 Kia Forte GT Line. The sedan served up ample front and back seat roominess, complimented by a sizable amount of trunk space (15.3 cubic feet). The cabin sparkled with lots of niceties, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a rear view camera with dynamic guidelines. Forte’s Drive Wise driver assist technologies include lane departure warning/safe exit warning and lane keeping assist/lane following assist.

Forte GT Line was powered by a 2.0-liter multi-port injection Atkinson engine producing 147 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 132 lbs-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. Engine mated to an intelligent variable automatic transmission. The tested model put sporty and smart touches into the equation, including 17-inch alloy wheels, heated outside mirrors with LED turn signals, and automatic on/off projector headlights. The tested 2023 Kia Forte GT Line carries a MSRP base price of $24,390 and collects estimated mpg of 27 city and 35 highway.