Kia Forte LXS Trim (U.S. & Canada

Trim Introduction

Buying a compact sedan doesn’t mean you have to settle for the most basic equipment or spend extra on features you’ll rarely use. The Kia Forte LXS offers a middle ground for drivers who want more convenience than the entry-level LX without moving into the sport styling and higher price of the GT-Line. In the 2024 U.S. lineup, LXS adds 16-inch alloy wheels, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and useful everyday equipment while retaining the same 147-horsepower 2.0L engine found in the LX. You also get an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with driver assistance features that support everyday driving. Its EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined fuel economy makes it a reasonable choice for commuting, although the LX achieves a slightly higher rating. If you’re shopping for your first car, replacing an older sedan, or looking for affordable transportation with a few additional comforts, the LXS gives you a useful upgrade without moving into the more expensive Forte trims.

• Value-focused upgrade: Adds useful equipment above the LX while keeping the purchase price below GT-Line.
• 2.0L four-cylinder engine: Produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque for everyday driving.
• 16-inch alloy wheels: Replace the LX’s smaller steel wheels with a more finished exterior appearance.
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats: Allow you to carry longer items while keeping part of the rear seat available.
• Everyday technology: Includes an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity.
• Fuel economy: Achieves an EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined for the 2024 U.S. model.
• Buyer focus: Suitable for commuting, first-time buyers, and drivers who want useful upgrades without sport packages.

Trim Positioning

Where does the Kia Forte LXS fit in the lineup, and is it worth choosing over the LX? LXS occupies the second position in the 2024 U.S. Forte range, directly above LX and below GT-Line. Moving from LX to LXS doesn’t increase horsepower or change the basic transmission. Instead, you’re paying for improvements such as alloy wheels and folding rear seats that make the car more flexible for everyday use. GT-Line adds sport styling, larger wheels, and upgraded technology, while GT is aimed at drivers who want stronger acceleration from a turbocharged engine. If you mainly drive to work, school, or around town, the LXS gives you useful equipment without requiring the higher cost of a sport-oriented model. Its value depends on whether you’ll actually use those upgrades, especially the folding rear seats.

Trim	Position	Main Equipment or Advantage	Best Suited For
LX	Entry level	Lowest starting price, essential technology	Budget-focused commuters
LXS	Value upgrade	Alloy wheels, folding rear seats	Drivers wanting extra convenience
GT-Line	Sport styling	17-inch wheels, upgraded technology	Buyers wanting sport appearance
GT	Performance	201-hp turbo engine, sport suspension	Drivers wanting stronger acceleration

Compared with the LX, the LXS makes the strongest case for itself through equipment you’ll notice during ownership. Folding rear seats are useful when transporting longer belongings, while alloy wheels improve the exterior appearance without changing the car’s basic driving character. If neither feature is important to you, the LX may be the less expensive choice. If you want additional technology and sport styling, GT-Line offers more equipment, but you’ll pay more for it.

Full Trim List (Context for Buyers)

Before choosing the Kia Forte LXS, it helps to understand what separates the four main trims offered in the 2024 U.S. lineup. Three versions use the same 2.0L four-cylinder engine, so paying more doesn’t automatically mean getting stronger acceleration. LX, LXS, and GT-Line all produce 147 horsepower, while GT uses a 201-horsepower turbocharged engine. Their main differences involve wheel sizes, interior equipment, exterior styling, and available technology. LXS is the first step above the basic LX, giving you added convenience without changing the engine. Canadian Forte models have used different trim names and equipment combinations, so the following list describes the U.S. hierarchy. Canadian buyers should compare their specific model year before treating two trim names as equivalent.

• LX (Entry level): Standard 2.0L engine, 15-inch steel wheels, essential infotainment, and the lowest starting price.
• LXS (Value upgrade): 16-inch alloy wheels, split-folding rear seats, and the same standard engine.
• GT-Line (Sport styling): 17-inch alloy wheels, sport exterior details, upgraded infotainment, and additional available convenience features.
• GT (Performance): 1.6L turbocharged engine producing 201 horsepower, sport suspension, and performance-focused equipment.

Engine & Drivetrain

Under the hood, the Kia Forte LXS uses a 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine doesn’t use a turbocharger, which keeps the power delivery straightforward and makes it suitable for normal commuting. Kia pairs it with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), an automatic transmission that adjusts its operating ratio as you accelerate instead of shifting through a fixed set of gears. In city traffic, this provides smooth acceleration without requiring you to change gears manually. On the highway, the engine has enough power for maintaining normal cruising speeds, although passing slower vehicles may require more accelerator input than in the turbocharged GT. Front-wheel drive is standard, and the suspension is designed for everyday comfort. You also get Drive Mode Select, which changes how the vehicle responds to your inputs without increasing engine horsepower.

Specification	Kia Forte LXS (2024 U.S.)
Engine	2.0L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder
Horsepower	147 hp
Torque	132 lb-ft
Transmission	Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Suspension	Comfort-focused
Drive Mode Select	Included
City fuel economy	EPA-estimated 28 mpg
Highway fuel economy	EPA-estimated 39 mpg
Combined fuel economy	EPA-estimated 32 mpg

Driving Performance and Fuel Economy

How does the LXS handle regular driving, and what should you expect at the gas pump? Its engine is designed for smooth, predictable acceleration instead of quick launches or aggressive driving. The IVT helps the engine operate efficiently during steady travel, while Drive Mode Select lets you adjust how quickly the car responds when you press the accelerator. For the 2024 U.S. model, the EPA estimates 28 mpg in the city, 39 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg combined. That combined figure is 2 mpg lower than the LX’s 34 mpg rating. Both trims share the same engine and transmission, but their certified configurations and wheel and tire packages are not identical. LXS uses 16-inch alloy wheels instead of the LX’s 15-inch steel wheels, which is one factor to consider when comparing efficiency.

• City driving: Smooth automatic operation helps make stop-and-go commuting easier.
• Highway performance: The 147-horsepower engine handles normal cruising, but passing requires more planning than in GT.
• Drive Mode Select: Changes accelerator and transmission response without adding horsepower.
• Fuel economy: EPA-estimated 28 city, 39 highway, and 32 combined mpg for the 2024 U.S. model.
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive only, with no factory all-wheel-drive option.

Interior Features

Step inside the Kia Forte LXS and you’ll find a cabin that keeps the controls simple while adding one important improvement over the LX: split-folding rear seats. With a 60/40 arrangement, you can fold one section of the rear seatback to carry longer items while leaving another section upright for a passenger. This is useful when transporting boxes, sports equipment, or luggage that won’t fit completely inside the trunk. Cloth upholstery and manual seat adjustments keep the seating straightforward, while the dashboard places common functions within easy reach. The 8-inch touchscreen handles music, phone connections, and compatible smartphone applications without requiring an upgraded infotainment package. You also get approximately 15.3 cubic feet of trunk space in the 2024 U.S. model. For a compact sedan, that provides useful room for groceries, travel bags, and everyday belongings.

• Cloth seating: Standard upholstery designed for everyday comfort and easy upkeep.
• Manual seat adjustments: Straightforward controls for adjusting your driving position.
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats: Extend cargo space while allowing part of the rear seating area to remain usable.
• 8-inch touchscreen: Central display for audio, phone connections, and supported applications.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Access to compatible navigation, music, and communication apps.
• Physical climate controls: Familiar buttons and controls for adjusting cabin temperature.
• Trunk capacity: Approximately 15.3 cubic feet, with added flexibility from the folding rear seats.

Exterior Features

Compared with the base LX, the Kia Forte LXS has a more finished exterior appearance thanks to its 16-inch alloy wheels. These replace the LX’s 15-inch steel wheels and give the sedan a noticeable visual upgrade without introducing the larger wheels or sport bodywork found on GT-Line. The LXS keeps the standard Forte body shape, regular front and rear bumpers, and familiar compact sedan proportions. You won’t find the GT’s performance-focused exterior details, and the standard wheel size also avoids some of the tire replacement costs associated with larger sport wheels. Exterior lighting and body-color components can change by model year, so it’s worth checking the equipment on the exact vehicle you’re researching. If you prefer a clean sedan without aggressive styling, LXS provides that appearance while remaining below GT-Line in the lineup.

• 16-inch alloy wheels: Standard appearance upgrade over the LX’s steel wheels.
• Regular Forte bumpers: Clean exterior styling without GT-Line sport bodywork.
• Standard exterior lighting: Lighting equipment appropriate to the model year and configuration.
• Body-color mirrors: Exterior finish that matches the vehicle on applicable models.
• Body-color door handles: Availability depends on the model year and equipment specification.
• Compact sedan body: Easy to maneuver and park without the larger dimensions of a midsize sedan.

Technology Features

Technology in the Kia Forte LXS focuses on everyday convenience without requiring you to purchase a premium package. Its standard 8-inch touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, letting you connect a compatible smartphone for navigation, music, and communication applications. Bluetooth handles hands-free calls and wireless audio streaming, while USB connections support compatible devices. Steering-wheel audio controls let you adjust common functions without reaching across the dashboard. The rear-view camera displays the area behind the vehicle when reversing, which is helpful in crowded parking lots. Drive Mode Select also lets you change the car’s accelerator and transmission response to suit your preferences. You won’t get every available technology feature found on GT-Line, but the LXS includes the main equipment needed for normal commuting and longer trips.

• 8-inch touchscreen: Central display for audio and smartphone functions.
• Apple CarPlay: Compatible iPhone access to supported navigation, music, and communication apps.
• Android Auto: Similar smartphone connectivity for compatible Android devices.
• Bluetooth: Hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming.
• USB connectivity: Connections for compatible devices and charging functions, depending on the port.
• Drive Mode Select: Adjustable driving response through selectable settings.
• Rear-view camera: Displays the area behind the vehicle when reversing.
• Steering-wheel audio controls: Convenient access to volume and common audio functions.

Safety Features

When you’re driving a Kia Forte LXS, several standard safety systems are designed to help you recognize certain hazards and maintain control. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can warn you about a potential frontal collision and apply automatic braking when its operating conditions are met. Lane Keeping Assist helps reduce unintended lane departures by providing steering assistance when lane markings are detected. Driver Attention Warning monitors certain driving patterns and can recommend taking a break when it detects signs associated with reduced attention. Electronic stability control and traction control help manage vehicle stability and wheelspin, especially when road conditions become slippery. You also get a rear-view camera to help check behind the vehicle when parking. These features are useful, but they don’t replace careful driving, and equipment availability can change between model years and markets.

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Warns about certain frontal collision risks and can apply automatic braking.
• Lane Keeping Assist: Provides steering assistance to help reduce unintended lane departures.
• Driver Attention Warning: Can recommend a break when driving patterns suggest reduced attention.
• Rear-view camera: Helps you check behind the vehicle while reversing.
• Electronic stability control: Helps maintain vehicle stability during certain loss-of-control situations.
• Traction control: Helps reduce wheelspin when accelerating on slippery roads.
• High Beam Assist: Availability depends on the model year and equipment configuration.

Kia Forte LXS Trim Feature Breakdown

What makes the Kia Forte LXS worth choosing over the less expensive LX? Most of the improvements involve convenience and cargo flexibility, not additional engine power. You still get the 147-horsepower 2.0L engine, but the LXS adds 16-inch alloy wheels and 60/40 split-folding rear seats that make the sedan more useful for everyday ownership. Drive Mode Select lets you adjust how the car responds while driving, and the standard 8-inch touchscreen provides smartphone connectivity without requiring an expensive technology package. For the 2024 U.S. model, fuel economy is rated at 32 mpg combined, only 2 mpg below the LX. If you regularly carry longer items or prefer the appearance of alloy wheels, these upgrades give you a clear reason to consider the LXS.

• 2.0L engine: Produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, matching the LX and GT-Line.
• IVT automatic transmission: Provides smooth acceleration without requiring manual gear changes.
• 16-inch alloy wheels: Replace the LX’s 15-inch steel wheels for a more finished appearance.
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats: Allow longer cargo to extend into the cabin while part of the rear seat remains available.
• Drive Mode Select: Adjusts accelerator and transmission response without increasing engine horsepower.
• 8-inch touchscreen: Includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for compatible smartphone applications.
• Cloth interior: Keeps seating and cabin controls simple without premium upholstery.
• Safety assistance: Includes forward collision warnings, lane assistance, and driver attention alerts on the 2024 U.S. model.
• Fuel economy: EPA-estimated 28 city, 39 highway, and 32 combined mpg for the 2024 U.S. model.

U.S. vs Canada Kia Forte LXS Differences

Shopping for a Kia Forte LXS in Canada requires a closer look at the trim name because the American and Canadian lineups are not identical. In the United States, LXS is the second trim in the 2024 Forte lineup, sitting above LX and below GT-Line. Canadian Forte models have used names such as LX, EX, and EX+, with equipment combinations that can change by year. That means a Canadian EX or EX+ shouldn’t automatically be considered the same vehicle as an American LXS. Heated seats and other cold-weather features are more common in Canadian configurations, while certain convenience and safety features may be included in different packages. If you’re comparing vehicles from both countries, start with the model year and original equipment list before comparing prices.

Feature	United States (2024 LXS)	Canada (Model Year Varies)
Trim naming	LXS	LX, EX, EX+ and other trim names
Position	Above LX, below GT-Line	Depends on Canadian lineup
Engine	2.0L, 147 hp	Depends on trim and model year
Transmission	IVT automatic	Depends on configuration
Wheels	16-inch alloy	Size and design vary
Heated front seats	Not standard on U.S. LXS	Available on selected trims
Heated steering wheel	Not standard on U.S. LXS	Available on selected trims
Fuel economy units	MPG	L/100 km
Pricing currency	USD	CAD

Important Equipment Differences

Two Kia Forte sedans from the same generation can have different features even when their engines and exterior designs look similar. For example, the American LXS focuses on alloy wheels and folding rear seats, while a Canadian EX may include heated equipment or additional convenience features depending on the year. Canadian buyers should also check whether a vehicle includes the same driver assistance systems offered on the U.S. LXS. You can’t determine that from the trim badge alone. If you’re comparing a Canadian Forte with an American model, reviewing the original window sticker or manufacturer specifications will help you avoid paying extra for equipment you assumed was included.

• Trim names: Canadian EX and EX+ are not direct replacements for the American LXS.
• Cold-weather equipment: Heated front seats and steering wheels are available on selected Canadian trims.
• Interior features: Seating materials, convenience equipment, and folding rear seats can vary by model year.
• Safety systems: Driver assistance features may be standard on one trim and unavailable or packaged differently on another.
• Fuel economy: Canadian ratings use L/100 km, while U.S. ratings use mpg. Official estimates may also vary because of different testing methods.
• Equipment verification: Check the original vehicle specifications for the exact model year and market.

Kia Forte LXS Pricing Ranges (U.S. & Canada)

How much should you expect to pay for the Kia Forte LXS? In the United States, the approximate $21,000 to $22,000 price range places it above the LX while keeping it below GT-Line. That additional cost mainly pays for equipment such as alloy wheels and folding rear seats, not a more powerful engine. Canadian pricing is harder to compare directly because the LXS name isn’t consistently used across Canadian Forte lineups. The approximate $24,000 to $25,500 CAD range supplied for this guide should therefore be treated as a general reference for a similarly positioned Canadian trim, not a confirmed LXS MSRP. These figures represent approximate original pricing levels, not current resale values. Since the Forte was succeeded by the Kia K4, actual asking prices will also depend on model year, mileage, condition, and local availability.

Market	Approximate Price Range	Position
United States	$21,000–$22,000 USD	LXS, above LX
Canada	$24,000–$25,500 CAD	Comparable trim reference; exact name varies

United States Pricing

If you’re comparing a U.S. Kia Forte LXS with the LX, the approximate $21,000 to $22,000 range gives you a useful starting point for understanding the price increase. You’re not paying for a stronger engine because both trims produce 147 horsepower. Instead, the LXS provides larger alloy wheels and rear seats that fold in sections, making it easier to carry longer belongings. These improvements can be useful if you regularly transport luggage, sports equipment, or household items. The LXS also remains below GT-Line, which adds more exterior styling and technology. Before buying, compare the original manufacturer’s price with the actual asking price, especially when researching older vehicles.

• Approximate price: $21,000 to $22,000 USD.
• Trim position: Second level in the 2024 U.S. Forte lineup.
• Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower.
• Main upgrades: 16-inch alloy wheels and 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
• Technology: 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Price comparison: Above LX and below GT-Line.

Canada Pricing

Canadian buyers should approach Forte LXS pricing by comparing equipment instead of looking for an identical trim name. Kia has offered different trim structures in Canada, including LX, EX, and EX+ in certain model years. The approximate $24,000 to $25,500 CAD range provided for this guide represents a general reference for a similarly equipped Forte, but it isn’t a verified MSRP for a specific Canadian LXS. Some Canadian configurations include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, or additional convenience equipment that may not be standard on the American LXS. If you’re comparing prices, check the exact model year, engine, wheel size, and interior equipment before deciding which version offers better value.

• Approximate price: $24,000 to $25,500 CAD.
• Trim naming: Canadian models may use LX, EX, EX+, or other names depending on year.
• Engine availability: Confirm the engine and transmission for the specific Canadian trim.
• Cold-weather features: Heated equipment is available on selected configurations.
• Equipment comparison: Check wheel size, folding rear seats, infotainment, and safety features.
• Price verification: Use the original Canadian pricing guide for the exact model year.

What You’re Paying For

Choosing the Kia Forte LXS means spending a little more than you would on LX to gain features that make everyday ownership easier. The most useful upgrade is the 60/40 split-folding rear seat, especially if you occasionally carry items that are too long for the trunk. You also get 16-inch alloy wheels, which improve the exterior appearance without requiring the GT-Line’s sport styling. The engine, transmission, and basic infotainment remain similar to LX, so the price increase isn’t buying additional horsepower. If you don’t need folding rear seats or prefer the lowest purchase price, LX may be enough. If those upgrades are useful to you, LXS offers them without requiring a move into the more expensive trims.

• Engine and transmission: 147-horsepower 2.0L engine with IVT automatic.
• Exterior upgrade: 16-inch alloy wheels instead of LX steel wheels.
• Cargo flexibility: 60/40 split-folding rear seats for longer belongings.
• Technology: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth.
• Safety: Standard driver assistance equipment on the 2024 U.S. model.
• Fuel economy: EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined for the 2024 U.S. model.
• Price position: Above LX and below GT-Line in the U.S. lineup.

Kia Forte LXS Trim Comparison Table

How does the Kia Forte LXS compare with the LX, GT-Line, and GT? For the 2024 U.S. lineup, LXS gives you more convenience than LX without changing the 147-horsepower engine or moving into the sport styling of GT-Line. Its biggest upgrades are the 16-inch alloy wheels and 60/40 split-folding rear seats, which make the car more appealing if you want a better-equipped sedan for everyday use. GT-Line adds larger wheels, upgraded technology, and sport-inspired exterior details, while GT delivers stronger acceleration with its 201-horsepower turbocharged engine. Fuel economy is another consideration because LX achieves 34 mpg combined, compared with 32 mpg for LXS and GT-Line. If you’re deciding between these trims, the table below shows what you gain as you move through the lineup. Prices are approximate reference ranges, not confirmed MSRPs for a specific model year.

Feature	LX	LXS	GT-Line	GT
Trim position	Entry level	Value upgrade	Sport styling	Performance
Engine	2.0L 4-cylinder	2.0L 4-cylinder	2.0L 4-cylinder	1.6L turbo
Horsepower	147 hp	147 hp	147 hp	201 hp
Torque	132 lb-ft	132 lb-ft	132 lb-ft	195 lb-ft
Transmission	IVT automatic	IVT automatic	IVT automatic	7-speed DCT or 6-speed manual
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD
Wheels	15-inch steel	16-inch alloy	17-inch alloy	18-inch alloy
Rear seats	Fixed	60/40 split-folding	60/40 split-folding	60/40 split-folding
Touchscreen	8-inch	8-inch	10.25-inch	10.25-inch
Interior	Cloth	Cloth	Sport-style upholstery	Sport seats
Main advantage	Lowest price	Added convenience	Styling and technology	Stronger acceleration
2024 U.S. fuel economy	34 mpg combined	32 mpg combined	32 mpg combined	30 mpg combined (DCT)
Approx. U.S. price	$20,000–$21,000	$21,000–$22,000	$23,000–$24,000	$25,000–$26,500

What the Comparison Tells You

Looking at the four trims, LXS offers a useful upgrade if you want better cargo flexibility without paying for the appearance and technology packages found on GT-Line. Its engine output is identical to LX and GT-Line, so you shouldn’t expect stronger acceleration just because you’re paying more than you would for LX. What you gain is equipment you’ll notice during everyday ownership, especially when carrying longer belongings or choosing a car with alloy wheels. GT-Line is the better choice if sport styling and a larger touchscreen are important to you, while GT is aimed at drivers who want more power. For ordinary commuting, LXS provides the standard engine and technology without requiring the higher purchase price of those trims.

• LX (Lowest price): Best suited to drivers who want the standard engine and essential equipment at the lowest starting price.
• LXS (Convenience upgrade): Adds alloy wheels and folding rear seats while keeping the same 147-horsepower engine.
• GT-Line (Styling and technology): Adds sport exterior details, larger wheels, and upgraded infotainment equipment.
• GT (Performance): Uses a turbocharged engine producing 201 horsepower for stronger acceleration.

Kia Forte LXS Trim Summary

Is the Kia Forte LXS worth choosing over the LX? If you want a compact sedan with a few useful upgrades, LXS is a strong option in the 2024 U.S. lineup. You get the same 147-horsepower engine and automatic transmission as LX, but the addition of 16-inch alloy wheels and split-folding rear seats makes the car more flexible for everyday ownership. Its EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined fuel economy also keeps it suitable for commuting, even though LX has a slight efficiency advantage. You won’t get the sport styling or larger touchscreen found on GT-Line, but those upgrades aren’t necessary if your priority is affordable transportation. LXS is especially worth considering when the price increase over LX is small enough to justify the equipment you’ll actually use.

☆ Best value upgrade (LXS): Adds alloy wheels and folding rear seats without moving into GT-Line pricing.

☆ Best for added convenience (LXS): Combines everyday technology, Drive Mode Select, and useful equipment in a lower-priced trim.

☆ Best for flexible cargo use (LXS): The 60/40 split-folding rear seats let you carry longer items while keeping part of the rear seating area available.

☆ Best for budget buyers wanting upgrades (LXS): Keeps the standard 147-horsepower engine while adding features missing from LX.

Related Pages

• Kia Forte LX Trim Page
• Kia Forte GT-Line Trim Page
• Kia Forte GT Trim Page
• Kia Forte Overview
• Kia Forte Buyer’s Guide