The Kia Soul has a lot going for it. It’s affordably priced, comes well-stocked with features, and was recognized by the IIHS as a Top Safety Pick. While that’s all good news, that doesn’t mean this year’s Soul is going to be the perfect fit for you since the Kia Soul’s distinctive styling isn’t for everyone, and this year’s model lacks when it comes to features. Fortunately, these Kia Soul alternatives are worth your attention.  

What cars are similar to the Kia Soul?

Seeing as the Kia Soul is a subcompact SUV, you can rest assured knowing that there are plenty of alternatives to this year’s model. Among the subcompact SUV segment, you’ll find sought-after models like the Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, among others. 

Each of these models has plenty to offer when it comes to standard safety features and interior amenities. However, for the most part, these alternatives are a tad more expensive than the Kia Soul. Fortunately, they’re not so expensive that you’ll find yourself breaking the bank anytime soon.

All-wheel drive alternatives to the Kia Soul

The Kia Soul isn’t available with all-wheel drive and, for some subcompact SUV shoppers, that’s going to be a deal-breaker. Fortunately, there are several all-wheel drive alternatives to this year’s new Kia Soul. 

Take, for example, the Honda HR-V. According to Kelley Blue Book, while the Honda HR-V comes standard with front-wheel drive, it’s also available with all-wheel drive. That being said, it is important to note that the Honda HR-V is more expensive than this year’s Soul.

Adding all-wheel drive tacks another $1,500 on to the subcompact SUV’s price too. Fortunately, according to Kelley Blue Book, the HR-V does hold its value well. 

And if the Honda HR-V isn’t the right fit for you? Consider the Subaru Crosstrek, which comes standard with all-wheel drive. Much like the HR-V, the Subaru Crosstrek is more expensive than the Kia Soul. However, it does offer significantly more front legroom than the Kia Soul does and, according to Consumer Reports, did much better in road tests than the Kia Soul did. 

Is the Hyundai Kona a better alternative to the Kia Soul?

Much like the Kia Soul, the Hyundai Kona is a subcompact SUV with plenty to offer. It boasts a base price of $20,500, is available with your choice of engine under the hood, and can even be had with all-wheel drive. Like the Kia Soul, the IIHS recognized this year’s Hyundai Kona as a Top Safety Pick. 

But is the Hyundai Kona a better alternative to the Kia Soul? It depends. According to Consumer Reports, the Kia Soul may not be the most reliable subcompact SUV. In fact, while J.D. Power gave the Soul a ‘Great’ overall quality and reliability rating, Consumer Reports gave this year’s model a one out of five predicted reliability rating.

As for the Hyundai Kona? Consumer Reports gave it a five out of five predicted reliability rating. Keep in mind, however, when it comes to reliability, your mileage will vary.

Choosing the best Kia Soul alternative for your driving needs

As much as the Kia Soul has going for it, if it’s not the right fit for you, then these alternatives may just work out instead. To find out, we recommend taking each model out for a test drive. After all, that’s the easiest way to determine whether or not a particular subcompact SUV is the right fit for satisfying your daily driving needs.