Subcompact crossover SUVs have taken off in popularity in recent years. Many drivers choose them for their lower starting prices, versatile cargo space, and excellent fuel economy. For those looking to get the efficiency of a compact vehicle but the utility of an SUV, subcompact SUVs make a great choice.
Two of the top-selling cars in this category are the Nissan Kicks and the Kia Soul. While both are front-wheel-drive and budget-priced, they have notable differences that set them apart. Here’s our buyer’s guide for the 2021 Nissan Kicks vs. 2021 Kia Soul.
2021 Nissan Kicks Overview
The 2021 Kicks is the brand’s smallest SUV, but it’s impressively roomy inside and offers an array of class-exclusive features. The versatile 60/40 split-fold seating allows for up to 5 passengers and 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space. With the seats folded down, drivers can enjoy over 53 cubic feet of space.
The Kicks rises above the competition in cargo space and standard safety features – all of which are best-in-class. Along with this, it is also among the segment’s most fuel-efficient. EPA estimates the crossover gets 31 MPG city and 36 MPG highway.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks is available in S, SV, and SR grades. All three trims come standard with the highest safety and technology updates. Additionally, the SR package adds heated seats, a heated steering wheel, synthetic leather, and premium speakers. MSRP for the Kicks ranges from $19,550 to $21,990, depending on the trim.
2021 Kia Soul Overview
Redesigned last year, the 2021 Kia Soul is now in its third generation. The vehicle has a boxy, stylish appearance and a spacious interior. Similar to the Kicks, the Soul features 60/40 split-fold seating, which can be used to hold up to 5 passengers or for extra cargo space.
The base Soul is powered by a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and drivers can choose between a standard six-speed manual transmission or an available automatic transmission. EPA estimates the standard model gets 25 MPG city and 31 MPG highway.
Unlike the Kicks, the Soul offers a turbo-engine for those looking for more power. This grade provides a more potent 201-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The 2021 Soul comes in six grades: LX, S, GT-Line, X-Line, EX, and Turbo. MSRP for the Soul ranges from $17,590 to $27,650, depending on the trim.
Technology and Safety Features
In terms of technology, the Nissan Kicks is one of the strongest in its segment. Compared to other subcompact SUVs, it is the only one to offer rear automatic braking and premium Bose Personal Plus speakers. Along with this, the speakers are placed inside the headrest creating a concert-like experience on every commute.
Compared to the Soul, the base model Kicks has much more to offer. For example, the Kicks includes Intelligent Around View Monitor, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Vehicle Anti-Theft System. The Kicks also comes with a convenient Rear Parking Aid and Keyless Start, making for a hassle-free driving experience. Most of these features are either unavailable on the Soul or only included on their pricier upgraded trims. With the Kicks, all come standard on the base model.
Though the 2021 Kia Soul LX is lacking, the S grade adds on more features. It includes Forward-Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, as well as a power driver’s seat. Higher trims add cosmetic upgrades like roof rails and 18-inch wheels. Additionally, the EX and Turbo grades offer an easy-to-use 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, an upgrade from lower trim’s 7-inch display.
Both vehicles include smart device integration, Android Auto, Apple Carplay, and an AM/FM stereo and auxiliary audio input.
Interior
Both the Kicks and Soul offer versatile cargo capacities and split-fold seating. The cargo space is comparable on both, with the Kicks inching slightly past the Soul. Nissan rises above the competition with best-in-class front legroom and headroom. Though the differences are slight, all those parts add up making the Kicks a comfier ride for its additional space.
Higher trims of the Soul include impressive cabin features such as a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and wireless smartphone charging. The Kicks rounds out its interior with features such as zero-gravity seating, automatic climate control, and heated mirrors and steering wheel.
2021 Nissan Kicks vs. 2021 Kia Soul: Which is Better?
While both vehicles are budget-friendly subcompact SUVs, the Nissan Kicks outshines the Soul in terms of safety, fuel economy, and cargo space. Though the 2021 Soul has a lower starting price on its base model, the LX is sparsely equipped. On the other hand, the Kicks base model includes all the standard technology features of the Soul’s upgraded trims – and more.
In terms of safety, the Kicks is among U.S. News & World Report’s top-rated vehicles with a 9.4/10 rating. The Soul, while reliable, has a lower safety rating of 8.8/10. Along with this, the Kicks is also roomier head-to-toe. The vehicle maximizes interior space offering best-in-class legroom and headroom, making road trips or daily commutes much more comfortable.
Lastly, the Kicks beats out the Soul in fuel economy by six additional MPG city and five extra MPG highway. Even with the turbocharged engine on upgraded Soul trims, the Kicks still beats it out with an additional 4 MPG both city and highway. For these reasons, we’d vote that the better buy is the 2021 Nissan Kicks.
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