2024 Kia Soul vs. 2024 Honda HR-V

When choosing between the 2024 Kia Soul and the 2024 Honda HR-V, prospective buyers are faced with two compelling options in the subcompact SUV category. Both vehicles offer unique strengths, from stylish design to advanced technology. This comparison delves into the key aspects of each model to help you make an informed decision.

Design & Style

First, the 2024 Kia Soul stands out with its distinctive boxy design, which blends practicality with modern aesthetics. Its upright stance not only maximizes interior space but also gives it a unique, recognizable look on the road. The Soul's exterior can be customized with bold color options and two-tone paint schemes, adding a touch of personality. Inside, the Soul offers a vibrant and youthful atmosphere, with colorful trim and textured door-panel inserts that enhance its lively character.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda HR-V boasts a more traditional yet modern design. Inspired by the Civic, its sleek and aerodynamic shape gives it a sophisticated look. The HR-V’s interior is designed for comfort and practicality, featuring quality materials and a clean, uncluttered layout. While it may lack the bold exterior styling of the Soul, the HR-V offers a classic appeal that many buyers may find attractive. The interior is marked by thoughtful touches and well-placed storage cubbies, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Technology & Safety

On the technology front, the Kia Soul is well-equipped, featuring a standard touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trims. Most models come with a 10.3-inch display, while the base LX trim gets an 8.0-inch screen. Additional features include a smartphone charging pad, head-up display, and ambient lighting, providing a well-rounded tech experience for drivers and passengers alike. Safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are also available, ensuring a high level of safety.

Meanwhile, the Honda HR-V offers a robust set of technological features as well. All models come with either a 7.0- or 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The larger display offers wireless connectivity for these features, but it is limited to the top EX-L trim. Standard on the EX-L is a wireless smartphone charging pad, enhancing convenience for tech-savvy drivers. The HR-V also includes a comprehensive suite of safety features such as Honda Sensing, which includes adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist.

Performance

Regarding performance, the 2024 Kia Soul is powered by a 147-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. This setup delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, making the Soul suitable for both city commutes and highway journeys. While not designed for sporty handling, the Soul offers a smooth ride and enough power for everyday driving needs.

In comparison, the 2024 Honda HR-V comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower. This engine is paired with a CVT and offers both front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. The HR-V's performance is adequate for city driving, but its 0-60 mph time of 9.4 seconds is slower than some of its competitors. Despite its slower acceleration, the HR-V excels in fuel efficiency, particularly on long-distance travel, making it an economical choice for highway driving.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, both the 2024 Kia Soul and the 2024 Honda HR-V offer distinctive advantages depending on what you're looking for in a subcompact SUV. The Soul excels in offering a spacious interior, a playful design, and a rich feature set that includes advanced infotainment options. It's a well-rounded vehicle that provides great value for money, especially for those who prioritize practicality and a lively driving experience.

Conversely, the Honda HR-V, with its modern design, comfortable interior, and efficient fuel economy, caters to drivers who appreciate a blend of style and functionality. While it may not be as bold in its design as the Soul, it offers a refined and practical choice for those seeking a reliable subcompact SUV.

Schedule a Test Drive Today

If the 2024 Kia Soul has captured your interest, there's no better way to experience its unique charm and capabilities than by taking it for a test drive. Visit your nearest Kia dealership to get behind the wheel and discover firsthand why the Soul stands out in the crowded subcompact SUV market. Schedule a test drive today and see how the Kia Soul can meet your driving needs and exceed your expectations.