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Kia Forte vs Toyota Highlander - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (201 HP vs 265 HP), trunk space and price (20,000 $ vs 39,300 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Kia Forte or Toyota Highlander?

Kia Forte vs Toyota Highlander: Key differences

Kia Forte

  • clearly cheaper
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Toyota Highlander

  • noticeably more power
  • moderately more efficient
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Forte

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Kia Forte is clearly cheaper – starting at 20,000 $ , while the Toyota Highlander costs 39,300 $ . That’s a price difference of around 19,280 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander performs moderately better – achieving 36 mpg, compared to 30 mpg for the Kia Forte. That’s a difference of about 6 mpg.

Highlander

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Toyota Highlander offers noticeably more power – delivering 265 HP compared to 201 HP. That’s roughly 64 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Toyota Highlander delivers visibly more torque with 310 lb-ft compared to 195 lb-ft. That’s about 115 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Toyota Highlander offers more seats – 8 vs 5.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Toyota Highlander is clearly ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $39,300
Highlander

Toyota Highlander

  • Engine Type : Gasoline, Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 243 - 265 HP
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Kia Forte

The Kia Forte stands out in the compact sedan segment with its stylish design and a surprisingly upscale interior for its class. It offers a smooth driving experience, combining efficiency with a comfortable ride, making it a great option for daily commutes or longer journeys. Inside, passengers are treated to a thoughtfully designed cabin with user-friendly technology and ample space.

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Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a trusty family hauler that blends calm road manners with a thoughtfully finished cabin and a bonus row for occasional adults. It won’t set your hair on fire, but with a refined hybrid option, easy-to-use tech, and resale strength that makes rivals sweat, it’s the sensible choice that still feels a bit special.

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Kia Forte
Toyota Highlander

Costs and Consumption
Price
20,000 - 25,400 $
Price
39,300 - 53,400 $
FuelEconomy City
22 - 30 mpg
FuelEconomy City
21 - 36 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
31 - 41 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
14 gal
Fuel tank capacity
17.1 - 17.9 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
7 - 8
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
-
Curb weight
4,155 - 4,595 lbs
Trunk Volume
15.3 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
182.7 in.
Length
194.9 - 197.4 in.
Width
70.9 in.
Width
76 in.
Height
56 in.
Height
68 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline, Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic, Manual
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
147 - 201 HP
Power HP
243 - 265 HP
Torque
132 - 195 lb-ft
Torque
175 - 310 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
1.6 - 2 L
Engine Displacement
2.4 - 2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024
Brand
Kia
Brand
Toyota
What is the starting MSRP for the Kia Forte?

Base pricing begins at 20,000 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.