What To Know
- In terms of fuel efficiency, the Forte GT Line with the CVT gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, while the Elantra SEL with the CVT gets an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.
- However, the Forte GT Line offers a more sporty driving experience and a more aggressive exterior design, while the Elantra SEL offers a more comfortable ride and a more conventional interior.
- If you’re looking for a sporty and aggressive compact sedan with a turbocharged engine and a responsive handling, the Forte GT Line is a great choice.
When it comes to compact sedans, the Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL are two of the most popular choices in the market. Both vehicles offer a combination of style, performance, and value, making them attractive options for budget-minded shoppers. However, there are key differences between the two models that you should consider before making a decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the specifications, features, and driving dynamics of the Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL to help you make an informed choice.
Exterior Design
The Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL share a similar size and shape, but their exterior designs are distinct. The Forte GT Line features a more aggressive front end with a large grille, sharp headlights, and a sporty bumper. The side profile is sleek and aerodynamic, with a sloping roofline and sculpted body lines. In contrast, the Elantra SEL has a more conservative look with a smaller grille, rounded headlights, and a smoother bumper. The side profile is more conventional, with a more upright stance and less aggressive lines.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL offer comfortable and well-equipped cabins. The Forte GT Line features sport-styled seats with red stitching, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Elantra SEL has a more traditional interior with cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Both vehicles offer a range of standard features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL are powered by different engines. The Forte GT Line features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Elantra SEL, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Both vehicles are available with either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual transmission. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Forte GT Line with the CVT gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, while the Elantra SEL with the CVT gets an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL offer different driving experiences. The Forte GT Line has a sportier suspension and steering system, which gives it a more agile and responsive feel on the road. It also has larger brakes and tires, which provide better stopping power and grip. The Elantra SEL, on the other hand, has a more comfortable suspension and steering system, which makes it better suited for everyday driving. It also has smaller brakes and tires, which result in less stopping power and grip.
Safety and Reliability
The Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL have both received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. In terms of reliability, both the Forte GT Line and Elantra SEL have a good track record, with few reported problems.
Price and Value
The Kia Forte GT Line has a starting price of $23,490, while the Hyundai Elantra SEL has a starting price of $23,600. Both vehicles offer a good value for the money, with a range of features and performance options at a competitive price. However, the Forte GT Line offers a more sporty driving experience and a more aggressive exterior design, while the Elantra SEL offers a more comfortable ride and a more conventional interior.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a sporty and aggressive compact sedan with a turbocharged engine and a responsive handling, the Forte GT Line is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more comfortable and fuel-efficient compact sedan with a more conventional design, the Elantra SEL is a better option.
Takeaways: Making an Informed Decision
Both the Kia Forte GT Line and Hyundai Elantra SEL are excellent choices in the compact sedan segment. They offer a combination of style, performance, and value that makes them attractive options for budget-minded shoppers. By carefully considering the differences between the two vehicles, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Kia Forte GT Line has a more powerful engine with 201 horsepower, compared to the Hyundai Elantra SEL‘s 147 horsepower.
Q: Which vehicle gets better fuel economy?
A: The Hyundai Elantra SEL gets better fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway, compared to the Kia Forte GT Line‘s 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a more aggressive exterior design?
A: The Kia Forte GT Line has a more aggressive exterior design with a large grille, sharp headlights, and a sporty bumper, while the Hyundai Elantra SEL has a more conservative look with a smaller grille, rounded headlights, and a smoother bumper.