2024 Subaru Legacy vs. 2024 Kia Forte

2024 is shaping up to be another exciting year for automotive innovation. With automakers striving to outdo one another in terms of style, performance, safety, and technology, two prominent contenders in the midsize sedan segment are standing out: The 2024 Subaru Legacy and the 2024 Kia Forte. These vehicles each offer distinct strengths and features that cater to different needs and preferences. 

So in this article, we will delve into the key aspects of each car, comparing and contrasting them to help you make an informed decision for your new sedan. Keep reading to learn more.

Design and Styling

2024 Subaru Legacy

The 2024 Subaru Legacy is an automotive gem; it carries the brand's signature rugged and athletic styling, featuring a bold front grille, sleek LED headlights, and pronounced wheel arches. The 2023 model year saw a refresh with many tweaks and improvements in styling, trim design, and technology. This year's modifications are promising similar enhancements (without the price bump). The 2024 trim variations offer numerous unique features which include the following:

• High-quality interior comfort
• The latest automotive advanced technology
• 360-degree heated steering wheel
• Class-leading room for driver and passengers
• Improved ergonomics

Subaru has managed to strike a balance between elegance and sportiness, making the Legacy a visually appealing option-all at an affordable cost. 

2024 Kia Forte

As a compact sports performance car, the 2024 Kia Forte adopts a more contemporary approach combined with a sporty design. Its tiger-nose grille and sculpted lines exude a dynamic appearance mixed with a sleek sense of athleticism. The Forte also offers a more compact and agile look compared to the Legacy, appealing to those who prefer a sportier aesthetic. The 2024 Kia Forte provides features that include:

• 15-inch steel wheels
• Tire mobility kit
• Projector beam headlights
• Daytime running lights
• Smart trunk and rear spoiler (GT-Line trim)

While the 2024 Kia Forte does provide an exceptional driving experience, it doesn't offer any major enhancements from the previous model year. 

Interior Comfort and Space

2024 Subaru Legacy

Are you on the automotive hunt for comfort and spaciousness? If so, you can end your search with the 2024 Subaru Legacy. You'll find all the comfort you need in the Legacy's commodious and well-appointed cabin. The Legacy offers generous legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for both the driver and passengers. Subaru leaves no stone unturned with its latest edition. Case in point? This roomy sedan also features a user-friendly infotainment system which offers:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• 7-inch infotainment display monitor (up to 11 inches on the premium models)
• In-dash navigation
• Standard 4-speaker stereo system
• Subaru's StarLink infotainment

2024 Kia Forte

Conversely, the 2024 Kia Forte, while not as spacious as the Legacy, offers a well-designed interior with a good mix of soft-touch materials. It provides adequate space for front-seat passengers, but the rear seat can feel a bit cramped for taller adults. However, the Forte makes up for this with a straightforward infotainment system and a user-friendly layout. Moreover, the Kia Forte boasts an array of interior attributes such as:

• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Solar control glass
• Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel
• LED interior lighting
• 6-way manual driver's seat

While it may not have the same luxurious ambiance as the Legacy, it offers a comfortable and practical cabin.

Performance and Handling

2024 Subaru Legacy

As Subaru's longest selling model in the United States, the Legacy comes equipped with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The result? It produces 182 horsepower, providing smooth and adequate power for most daily driving scenarios. If you want a more spirited performance, however, there's an available 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower, making the Legacy a true performer in the midsize sedan category. 

Moreover, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on every Legacy, enhancing traction and stability in particularly adverse weather conditions.

2024 Kia Forte

In contrast, the 2024 Kia Forte is available with a choice of two powertrains. The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes it to a CVT transmission that generates 147 horsepower, which is suitable for city driving and daily commutes. For a more spirited experience, the GT trim offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower, making it the more performance-oriented option. 

While the Forte offers decent handling and ride comfort, it doesn't have the same level of all-wheel-drive capabilities as the Legacy.

Safety Features

2024 Subaru Legacy

Both the 2024 Subaru Legacy and the 2024 Kia Forte prioritize safety, but Subaru's reputation for safety is well-established. As a matter of fact, Subaru has earned the top safety pick for nearly two decades running in the United States, making it one of the safest vehicles money can buy. Additionally, the Legacy comes standard with the Subaru EyeSight suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Pre-collision braking
• Lead vehicle start alert
• Pre-collision throttle management

This robust set of features adds an extra layer of confidence for drivers, especially on long journeys.

2024 Kia Forte

The 2024 Kia Forte is equipped with a similar set of safety features, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist, but not all features are available on every trim. While it offers a respectable level of safety, it may not match the Legacy's comprehensive suite, which comes standard on all trims.

In Closing

Choosing between the 2024 Subaru Legacy and the 2024 Kia Forte really comes down to your needs, priorities, and personal preferences. The Legacy excels in areas of spaciousness, safety, and all-wheel-drive capabilities, making it an excellent choice for if you prioritize comfort and all-weather performance. However, the Kia Forte stands out with its sporty design, budget-friendly pricing, and a more compact footprint, making it a more economical sedan.

Both vehicles offer their unique advantages, so it's essential to consider your specific needs and priorities when making a decision. Luckily, we here at Granite Subaru can help! Our team of knowledgeable and experienced specialists is here to assist you in finding your next new or used vehicle. So if you're ready, contact us today to learn more.