If you’re in the market for a small or subcompact SUV, you may want to draw your attention to the 2023 Kia Soul and the 2023 Kia Seltos. These two SUVs from Kia have much in common but have several key differences. To help you decide which is right for you, we’ll review some of the differences and similarities between these two stylish SUVs.
2023 Kia Soul vs. Kia Seltos: Engine and Performance
We’ll start by looking at what type of performance you can expect from both vehicles. With the 2023 Kia Soul, all models include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower. This provides more than enough get-up-and-go for this hatchback SUV. Combined with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the Kia Soul’s drivetrain provides a snappy and smooth driving experience regardless of your speed or the type of roads you travel.
As for the 2023 Kia Seltos, you can choose between two different engines. The base option produces 146 horsepower, while the upgraded turbocharged engine produces 175 horsepower. In addition, you’ll receive a CVT or a seven-speed automatic transmission, depending on which engine you select. Finally, on every trim level except one, the 2023 Kia Seltos comes with all-wheel drive to help you handle more difficult driving conditions.
2023 Kia Soul vs. Kia Seltos: Fuel Efficiency
One of the most common concerns when purchasing an SUV is fuel efficiency. Although the Kia Soul’s styling isn’t the most aerodynamic, the fuel economy for this sporty hatchback is surprisingly good. The EPA rates the Kia Soul at 35 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg in town. This is an impressive result for any SUV. Of course, fewer stops at the gas station are always welcome.
Since there are a few powertrain configurations available for the 2023 Kia Seltos, this impacts your fuel efficiency ratings. With the front-wheel-drive model and base engine, you’ll get around 35 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg in town, comparable to the 2023 Kia Soul. Opting for all-wheel drive on the Kia Seltos drops these estimates to 31 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in town. Finally, when all-wheel drive is combined with the turbocharged engine, expect to get around 30 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in town.
2023 Kia Soul vs. Kia Seltos: Safety
Safety features are an important consideration whenever you’re buying a new vehicle. Luckily, the 2023 Kia Soul and the 2023 Kia Seltos include many of the latest safety technologies. For example, a forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist are standard features on the Kia Soul. On top of that, you can add other options, such as blind-spot monitoring and automatic high-beam headlamps.
The Kia Seltos also has plenty of safety features, although the standard inclusions are slightly different. Similarly, the Seltos has automated emergency braking, a lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist but adds a rear cross-traffic warning. You can choose to add adaptive cruise control and cyclist detection to your Seltos if you wish. Generally speaking, most features are available for both vehicles, so you’ll feel secure on the road no matter which SUV you choose.
2023 Kia Soul vs. Kia Seltos: Comfort and Cargo Space
Moving on to the vehicle interiors, the 2023 Kia Soul provides plenty of space for both driver and passengers, thanks to its unique design. To compliment the Soul’s trend-setting exterior, the interior continues the quirky styling with elements such as textured door panel inserts and colorful trim colors. To customize your Kia Soul further, you can add ambient lighting, a head-up display, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. As for cargo space, there are 24 cubic feet in the rear, which can be expanded by folding down the back seats.
The 2023 Kia Seltos offers a premium interior experience as well. The materials are all thoughtfully chosen and refined, giving the Seltos a sophisticated look and feel. The 2023 Kia Seltos features more cargo space in the rear than the Soul, coming in at 27 cubic feet compared to the Soul’s 24 cubic feet. Finally, as with the Kia Soul, you can add optional features such as ambient lighting or heated front seats to make your driving experience more enjoyable.
2023 Kia Soul vs. Kia Seltos: Entertainment
Finally, we come to the features that keep you entertained while driving. Both vehicles can access these features through the included infotainment system. The Kia Soul and Kia Seltos base models include an 8-inch touch screen, while the other trim levels have a 10.3-inch touch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard inclusions, but other premium features can be added, such as SiriusXM satellite radio and an in-dash navigation system.
One difference between the two models is the featured brand of the upgraded sound system. For a premium auditory experience, the Kia Soul offers a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, while the 2023 Kia Seltos goes with a 10-speaker Bose system. Therefore, if you have a specific preference for one of these high-performance brands, you may prefer the vehicle that provides it.
Which Kia Is Right for You?
As you can see, these two Kia vehicles have many similarities and a few differences. The 2023 Kia Soul is the most affordable, with the base model starting at an MSRP of $21,085 and the most premium EX trim coming in at $25,385. The 2023 Kia Seltos, however, begins with an MSRP of $24,135 and goes up to $29,635. Therefore, the Kia Soul is your ideal choice if you simply want the more affordable option. However, the 2023 Kia Seltos features improvements such as more cargo space, more robust performance, and all-wheel drive, which may make the additional expense worthwhile.
Come Visit Huffines Kia in Corinth
If you’re in the Corinth area and want to learn more about the 2023 Kia Soul or the 2023 Kia Seltos, Huffines Kia is here to help. Get started today by checking out our current selection of new inventory. To learn more about leasing or buying a vehicle from us, feel free to contact our finance department. When you’re ready, contact us to schedule a visit and take a test drive. We look forward to hearing from you.