The subcompact crossover SUV segment has witnessed significant growth over recent years, driven by the demand for vehicles that offer the advantages of SUVs, such as higher seating positions and versatile cargo space, combined with the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of smaller cars. Among the standout contenders in this competitive market are the Hyundai Kona and the Kia Soul, two models that have carved out distinctive niches for themselves and have attracted a loyal following. This article seeks to provide an in-depth comparison of these two subcompact crossovers, examining various facets including design philosophy, powertrain options, interior comfort, technology features, and overall value proposition.
The Hyundai Kona, introduced in 2017, is a modern subcompact crossover from Hyundai, offering city-oriented versatility with a sporty and progressive design inspired by the Hawaiian district of Kona. Hyundai positions the Kona between its smaller models like Venue and its larger Tucson, with an option for all-wheel drive and an innovative electric variant known as Kona Electric. This battery electric version enhances the Kona’s appeal by combining sustainable driving with high range and advanced driver-assistance features.
On the other hand, the Kia Soul, also a subcompact crossover SUV but with a unique boxy shape and a tall roof, entered the market earlier in 2008 and has become known for its distinctive appearance and urban-friendly design. Originating from Kia’s design team in California, the Soul targets younger buyers with its quirky style and practical interior space. Unlike the Kona, the Kia Soul has never been offered with all-wheel drive but has consistently emphasized maximizing interior room and infotainment technology. There is also an electric version available, expanding the Soul’s reach into the growing electric vehicle market.
In this exploration, we will dissect these models to understand their strengths and differentiators. We will start by examining their exterior design and stylistic cues; then move on to their powertrain and performance characteristics; followed by a detailed look at interior design, comfort, and technology; next, we will analyze safety features and driver assistance systems; and finally, assess their pricing, value for money, and overall ownership experience.
By the end of this comprehensive comparison, prospective buyers and automotive enthusiasts alike will have a thorough understanding of what the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul bring to the table, helping them make informed decisions when choosing between these two compelling subcompact crossover SUVs.
Styling and Exterior Design
The Hyundai Kona embraces a sleek, sporty exterior that draws clear inspiration from the relaxed yet adventurous Hawaiian lifestyle. Its design features dynamic lines that flow smoothly from front to rear, creating a sense of motion even at a standstill. The Kona’s aerodynamic form is further enhanced by its aggressive front fascia, which includes split LED headlamps and a distinctive grille, contributing to a modern, urban appeal. This styling not only accentuates its athletic character but also plays a key role in optimizing fuel efficiency and handling dynamics. Additionally, the availability of all-wheel-drive options amplifies its rugged, go-anywhere persona, broadening its appeal to those seeking versatility without compromising on style.
In stark contrast, the Kia Soul champions an iconic, boxy silhouette with a tall, upright roofline that emphasizes practicality and interior spaciousness. This unique design philosophy caters to a youthful demographic, combining bold, quirky aesthetics with functional benefits. The Kia Soul’s distinctive shape maximizes headroom and cargo capacity, making it an ideal choice for city dwellers and those valuing versatile interior layouts. Its strong road presence is unmistakable, standing out with signature elements like the wraparound LED tail lamps and a wide, imposing front grille, which together enhance its charismatic and approachable personality.
From a practical standpoint, the Kona’s aerodynamic efficiency supports enhanced performance and better fuel economy, especially in its AWD variants, while the Soul delivers exceptional interior utility at the cost of a less streamlined exterior. Consumer appeal varies accordingly: the Kona attracts buyers looking for a sporty, refined look with some off-road capability, whereas the Soul’s appeal lies in its fun, functional design that resonates with individuals valuing interior volume and distinctive style.
Both models leverage their unique styling to carve out strong identities in the competitive subcompact crossover segment, addressing diverse lifestyle needs through design that balances aesthetics with everyday utility.
Powertrain and Performance Options
The Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul both offer noteworthy powertrain options tailored to distinct driving preferences in the subcompact crossover segment. Starting with their gasoline engines, the Kona provides a versatile lineup featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). For drivers seeking a sportier edge, the Kona also offers a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Notably, the Kona is available with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and an optional all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration, enhancing its capability in diverse road conditions.
In contrast, the Kia Soul sticks to a simpler approach with a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT, and an available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that generates 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, the Soul is strictly front-wheel drive, which suits urban and suburban environments but lacks the AWD versatility found in the Kona.
When it comes to electric variants, both models present compelling options for eco-conscious buyers. The Hyundai Kona Electric stands out with two battery options: a 39.2 kWh pack offering a range of up to 258 miles, and a larger 64 kWh battery extending the range to approximately 258 miles in EPA estimates. It delivers smooth, instant torque and quick acceleration, with an output of 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, and supports fast charging capabilities for added convenience.
The Kia Soul EV, meanwhile, features a 64 kWh battery with an EPA-estimated range of around 243 miles. It produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque as well, delivering a spirited yet composed driving experience with responsive handling tuned for urban agility. Although both electric models share similar power outputs, the Kona Electric benefits from slightly more refined range options and faster charging tech, aligning with Hyundai’s emphasis on performance and efficiency.
Fuel economy for the gasoline models favors the Kona’s turbo variant slightly, though both vehicles maintain competitive mileage amid their segment. Driving dynamics emphasize the Kona’s nimble steering and confident handling, boosted by its optional AWD, whereas the Soul’s unique chassis and FWD layout promote a comfortable, stable ride ideal for city driving. Overall, these powertrain choices enable buyers to select between efficiency, sportiness, and electrification while benefiting from subcompact crossover practicality.
Interior Comfort and Technology Features
The Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul both offer thoughtfully designed interiors that prioritize comfort and technology, although each reflects a distinct approach to space and aesthetics. The Kona adopts a more conventional subcompact crossover layout, with a driver-focused cockpit and high-quality materials that create a premium feel for the segment. Seating surfaces typically include cloth upholstery in base trims, with optional leatherette or genuine leather upgrades available in higher trims, supporting both comfort and durability. The Kona’s cabin layout emphasizes ergonomic placement of controls and a clean dashboard design, allowing intuitive access to features without clutter.
In contrast, the Kia Soul takes a boxier, more spacious approach, resulting in an airy cabin with generous headroom and legroom, particularly in the rear. The Soul often features colorful interior accents and customizable ambient lighting, injecting personality and flair rarely seen in this category. Seating materials are comparable to Kona’s, with options that balance comfort and style. The hexagonal, upright shape of the Soul maximizes usable space, providing practicality for both passengers and cargo.
When it comes to infotainment, both models are competitive. The Hyundai Kona offers an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, upgradeable to a 10.25-inch display in higher trims, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity. The Kia Soul also includes a standard 8-inch touchscreen with similar smartphone integration, while optional premium Harman Kardon audio adds an elevated listening experience. Both vehicles feature physical knobs and buttons for key functions, enhancing usability on the go.
Advanced technology adds another layer of convenience in both crossovers. The Kona and Soul come equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning as available or standard features, boosting safety and driving ease. Connectivity options include wireless charging pads and multiple USB ports, accommodating today’s tech-savvy users.
Overall, the Hyundai Kona leans toward a refined, driver-centric interior, while the Kia Soul excels in spaciousness and distinctive style, catering to buyers who prioritize customization and passenger comfort without sacrificing tech sophistication.
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Both the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul prioritize safety through a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect occupants and enhance driver awareness. Standard in both models is a robust airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags, which safeguard passengers in various types of collisions. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is also a standard feature on both vehicles, helping maintain control during sudden maneuvers or slippery conditions by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels.
Where the Kona and Soul differentiate is in their advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) offerings. Hyundai equips the Kona with technologies such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which includes pedestrian detection to mitigate front-end collisions. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Driver Attention Warning (DAW) are also prominent in the Kona, actively helping drivers stay within lane boundaries and alerting them to signs of fatigue or distraction. Kia’s Soul matches these with its Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Departure Warning systems, but also includes features like Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning and Blind-Spot Collision Warning in higher trims, broadening situational awareness and safety during lane changes or reversing.
Regarding crash test ratings, the Hyundai Kona has earned high marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), with a Top Safety Pick designation highlighting its strong crash protection and effective collision avoidance systems. The Kia Soul also performs admirably in safety evaluations, consistently scoring well for occupant protection and front crash prevention technologies. Both vehicles meet or exceed current federal safety standards, aligning with consumer expectations for modern subcompact crossovers.
These safety systems significantly enhance driver confidence by reducing the risk of accidents and minimizing injury severity in the event of a collision. The inclusion of electronic aids like ESC and lane-keeping technologies helps make both the Kona and Soul particularly well-suited for urban environments, where quick reactions and hazard awareness can be critical. As safety technology continues to evolve, both models maintain relevant features that ensure competitiveness and appeal to safety-conscious buyers.
Value Proposition and Ownership Experience
The Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul both position themselves firmly within the competitive subcompact crossover segment, each offering compelling value propositions. Starting with pricing, the Kona typically carries a slightly higher starting MSRP compared to the Soul, reflecting its sportier styling and somewhat more premium feel. However, both models are attractively priced for budget-conscious buyers seeking versatile urban crossovers. Hyundai and Kia’s sister-brand relationship means there’s considerable overlap in technology and components, but nuanced differences shape their ownership appeal.
When evaluating warranty coverage, both vehicles come with industry-leading plans. Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile comprehensive warranty mirror Kia’s equally robust offerings, providing peace of mind through extended coverage. This strong warranty positioning bolsters the perceived value and reduces long-term maintenance concerns for owners of either model.
In terms of standard equipment relative to price, the Soul often includes slightly more basic amenities at its base level, making it a more cost-effective choice for buyers focused on essentials. The Kona, meanwhile, tends to enrich its base trim with additional tech and comfort features such as advanced infotainment options and higher-end interior materials, justifying its premium. Both models offer a range of trims that escalate equipment and price, allowing buyers flexible customization within their budget.
Cost of ownership follows a similar trajectory for both crossovers. Fuel economy is competitive, with the Kona’s turbocharged variants delivering spirited performance at a reasonable fuel cost, while the Soul usually offers a smooth balance of efficiency and value, particularly with its non-turbo choices. Routine maintenance expenses are comparably affordable thanks to widely available parts and dependable engineering from Hyundai and Kia.
Incentives can tilt the scales depending on season and dealer promotions, with both brands frequently providing special financing rates, cashback offers, or lease deals that enhance affordability. Prospective buyers are encouraged to monitor these closely.
Reliability and resale value are crucial, and both vehicles enjoy solid reputations. Hyundai and Kia have markedly improved their standings over the last decade, earning high marks in customer satisfaction and reliability surveys. The Kona’s slightly higher initial price is often offset by stronger resale values in specific markets, while the Soul’s quirky, distinctive styling tends to foster a loyal owner base that can maintain resale demand.
Ultimately, the Kona appeals to those valuing a more refined ownership experience with modern tech and a sportier drive, while the Soul’s value-packed approach and iconic design continue to attract buyers prioritizing practicality and affordability. Both represent excellent choices in the subcompact crossover segment, delivering comprehensive benefits balanced against their ownership costs.
Final Thoughts on Hyundai Kona vs Kia Soul
In conclusion, both the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul offer unique and compelling choices in the subcompact crossover segment. The Kona impresses with its dynamic styling, versatile powertrain options including an efficient electric variant, and advanced safety features. Meanwhile, the Kia Soul stands out with its distinct design, spacious interior, and urban-centric approach. Buyers prioritizing driving dynamics and technological innovation may find the Kona more appealing, whereas those seeking quirky style and practical interior space might prefer the Soul. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual preferences and lifestyle needs, with both vehicles representing excellent value and versatility in the competitive subcompact crossover market.
