Honda has a stellar reputation for reliability and resale value, and the 2021 Honda HR-V in Albuquerque NM keeps that reputation going. However, an excellent rival is the Kia Soul, and although Kia hasn't been around as long as Honda, it's coming up through the ranks of car companies, proving itself to be a real contender. The 2021 Kia Soul is a sporty little hatchback with lots of personality, that gives the HR-V a real run for its money. Let's find out how they compare.
Engine Comparison
To begin, both of these mini SUVs offer a fine engine for a subcompact vehicle, but the Soul's base 2.0 liter 4-cylinder outshines the HR-V's 4-cylinder engine in both horsepower and torque. What's more, the Kia Soul has another available engine in the Turbo trim, a 1.6 liter turbocharged four, that puts out 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque; go-power that the HR-V cannot beat. There's even an optional electric version of the Kia Soul!
If you love the peppy feeling of a stick shift, the Kia Soul comes with a 6-speed manual transmission on the base trim, which you won't find anywhere in the lineup of the 2021 Honda HR-V in Albuquerque NM. Other trims of the Soul come standard equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) while the Turbo comes with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic and a tighter, sportier suspension. You can trade the stick for a CVT in the base model as well.
Seating
Both of these spunky little five-seater subcompacts offer plenty of passenger and cargo room on the inside even though they're small on the outside. Maneuverability is at a premium in both and getting in and out of tight spaces is a breeze. Either car would be an excellent choice for city drivers. However, upon closer inspection of the two, the Kia Soul edges out the Honda HR-V, with a bit more room for back seat passengers and a larger cargo hold opening.
Kia Soul Interior
If you enjoy more color options than the boring basics traditionally offered, you'll love the Kia Soul's larger assortment of lively colors. With choices such as Solar Yellow, Mars Orange, Inferno Red, and several two-toned selections, the Kia Soul's personality stands out among all those silver and beige colored vehicles on the road. In comparison, the Honda HR-V only offers the usual ho-hum exterior colors, and less of them too.
2021 Honda HR-V in Albuquerque NM: Interior
The HR-V and the Soul are quite similar in features and amenities, but in the base model HR-V smart device integration isn't available, while it comes standard across the lineup of the Soul. You'll also enjoy listening to your playlists on the Kia's six speaker setup, whereas the Honda only supplies four throughout the cabin. Upper-level models of the Kia Soul come with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and lower trims have a 7-inch touchscreen. In comparison, lower trim HR-Vs get 5-inch screens as standard, while the upper trims receive a 7-inch screen. Wireless charging is another available feature on the Soul but not on the HR-V.
Technology
An available suite of driver assist tech is offered in both of these vehicles, but the Kia Soul provides underpinnings that are a step above. In order to maximize the stiffness of the Iso-Structure™ frame, it's constructed of high-strength steel to ensure a safe ride at the first level.
You can also enjoy available comfort features like ambient lighting, an overhead console for more storage space, and a 10-way power driver's seat with the Kia Soul. While the 2021 Honda HR-V in Albuquerque NM has many storage options, it doesn't even offer 10-way power adjustable seating or mood lighting.
Warranties
Finally, there are two facts that may really influence your purchase decision. Kia offers the best warranties you'll find, with a 6 year/60,000 mile basic, and a 10 year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Honda doesn't come close. And with a starting price below $18,000, you can't beat the Kia Soul for affordability.
When you're ready for a closer look at the Kia Soul, give us a call or stop by Fiesta Kia. We're located at 7400 Lomas Blvd in Albuquerque, where we're ready to show you what makes this Kia a one-of-a-kind!