The 2023 Kia Forte: What Happened to It, and Where to Find One Now

August 14th, 2023 by
2026 Kia K4

The 2026 Kia K4, the Forte’s replacement

If you’ve been researching the 2023 Kia Forte, there’s something worth knowing before you go any further: Kia discontinued the Forte after the 2024 model year. Here’s what that actually means, what replaced it, and the good news, we still have real Fortes on our lot right now.

The Forte Has Been Discontinued

As part of a broader move to a consistent naming system across its sedan lineup (K4, K5, K8), Kia retired the Forte nameplate entirely after 2024. There’s no 2025 or 2026 Forte being built. If a listing somewhere says otherwise, it’s talking about a leftover or used model, not a new one.

Meet What Replaced It: the 2026 Kia K4

The K4 takes the Forte’s spot in Kia’s lineup, same compact sedan class, similar everyday price range, but a genuine generational leap rather than a simple refresh:

~30″Dual panoramic display (vs. the Forte’s 8″)
38.0″Rear legroom (vs. 35.7″ on the Forte)
2 Body StylesSedan and an all-new hatchback option

It also brings Digital Key 2.0 and the Kia AI Assistant, features that simply weren’t on the table in the Forte’s generation.

Still Want an Actual 2023 Forte? We Have Them.

If it’s genuinely a Forte you’re after and not just the segment, we currently carry used Fortes in our inventory. Browse our used Kia inventory or give us a call and we’ll let you know what’s on the lot today.

Common Questions

Is the Kia Forte still being made?

No. Kia ended Forte production after the 2024 model year. Any Forte available today, new or used, is from existing stock, not current production.

What’s the Forte’s replacement?

The Kia K4. It occupies the same compact sedan position in Kia’s lineup, now with Kia’s updated K-series naming and a substantial upgrade in technology, interior space, and available body styles.

Can I still buy a Kia Forte at Valley Hi Kia?

Yes, as a used vehicle. We currently have Fortes in our used inventory. Availability changes as vehicles sell, so it’s worth checking with us directly or browsing our current listings.

Two Ways to Move Forward

See what replaced the Forte, or find an actual Forte still on our lot.

Or call us at (760) 955-0046.