Drivers are already familiar with the popular and versatile Kia Soul. This cube-shaped vehicle has been competing with small crossovers and hatchbacks for years. One of the most recent contenders fighting for attention is the relatively new Kia Seltos.
When the Seltos hit the scene in 2021, shoppers started wondering how the Kia Soul and Seltos differed and if one was a better buy. Here are how the two Kia automobiles compare.
Love At First Sight
Both the Soul and the Seltos are attractively built vehicles. The Soul stands out as one of the only boxy-looking options on the road. It’s often considered more of a large hatchback than a small SUV. Thanks to this design, the Soul offers a little more passenger room in the back seat.
The Seltos takes on a more traditional SUV style. More importantly, it’s filled with more stylish and high-class materials throughout the cabin. They both offer roughly the same storage capacity.
Performance Numbers
The Kia Soul comes loaded with a 2.0-liter engine or a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. When properly equipped, this vehicle can produce a max of 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It also earns an EPA rating of 30 mpg combined highway/city. You can also find a Kia Soul EV that offers up to 243 miles of driving range.
The Kia Seltos offers the same powertrain options as the Soul. The difference is that its powertrain is tuned to offer 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The other thing you’ll notice is that the Seltos offers an option for all-wheel-drive, while the Soul is only available in front-wheel-drive.
Modern Tech
Both the Kia Soul and Seltos offer tons of modern features, from a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment center to automatic climate controls. The Soul can be outfitted with a top-of-the-line Harmon-Kardon sound system, while the Seltos goes in the direction of a premium Bose option.
Otherwise, you’ll see mostly the same options on the various trim levels on both of these Kia vehicles.
Which One Is The Right Choice?
If your budget plays a huge role in your car-buying decision, you might prefer the Soul. The base-level Soul starts at $18,610, while the top trim comes in at $28,610. The Seltos, on the other hand, starts at $23,000 with a top-trim price of $30,000.
The bottom line is that both the Kia Soul and Seltos are amazing vehicles that make drivers happy with their choices. The Soul has a unique design and a lower price tag, while the Seltos offers a little more luxury and a traditional look.
If you’re not sure which one is your best-fit car, stop by your local Kia dealer and see them in person.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.