2024 Hyundai Venue vs. 2024 Kia Soul

Choosing between the 2024 Hyundai Venue vs. 2024 Kia Soul can be a tough call. Both are excellent options in the subcompact SUV segment, offering affordability, maneuverability, and good fuel economy. However, they cater to slightly different preferences. Let's explore their key features to help you make an informed decision.

Size and Styling

The Soul embraces a boxy, unconventional design that stands out in a sea of lookalike SUVs. It boasts a higher roofline for a more commanding presence on the road and translates to more cargo space than the Venue. The Venue leans towards a more conventional small SUV aesthetic, with a lower profile and a more streamlined look. While the Soul offers a two-tone color option for a bolder look, the Venue keeps things simple with a single-tone exterior.

Performance

Both vehicles come standard with front-wheel drive, but neither offers all-wheel drive as an option. If venturing off the beaten path is a priority, you'll need to consider a different subcompact SUV. The Venue utilizes a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a satisfactory, if not particularly thrilling, driving experience.

The Soul boasts a slightly larger 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine generating 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This creates a more spirited driving experience, especially when merging onto highways or tackling inclines. Neither engine is a powerhouse, but both are sufficient for navigating city streets and occasional highway commutes. Fuel efficiency is nearly identical, with both achieving an estimated 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

Interior Comfort and Features

Despite its smaller size, the Hyundai car offers surprisingly spacious seating for five. While passenger space is comparable in both vehicles, the Kia's higher roofline provides a more airy feel in the cabin, especially for passengers in the back seat.

Both offer standard cloth upholstery, with heated front seats available in higher trims for added comfort in colder climates. Technology features are on par, with both offering smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system. However, advanced driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning are typically optional in both vehicles.

Cargo Space and Functionality

This is where the Soul starts to pull slightly ahead. Thanks to its boxy design, the Soul offers a significant advantage in terms of cargo space. With the rear seats folded down, the Soul provides 62.1 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to the Venue's 19.1 cubic feet. If you regularly haul groceries, sporting equipment, or luggage, the Soul's additional cargo capacity might be a significant advantage.

Price and Value

The Venue boasts a slight edge in terms of affordability, with a starting MSRP of around $19,900. The Soul starts at roughly $20,190. However, keep in mind that the Soul's base engine offers more power, and some features that might be optional on the Venue might be standard on the Soul depending on the chosen trim level.

Ultimately, the better value proposition depends on which features are most important to you. If you prioritize a lower starting price and a manageable size for city driving, the Venue might be the better choice. If you value a bit more power, cargo space, and a unique design, the Soul could be a more compelling option.

The Verdict

The 2024 Hyundai Venue is an excellent choice for budget-conscious urban dwellers who prioritize fuel efficiency and a manageable size for navigating city streets and tight parking spots. Whichever you choose, both the Venue and Soul offer a compelling package in the subcompact SUV segment. Test driving both vehicles is the best way to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.