Which compact suv reigns supreme? kia soul vs gmc terrain – expert comparison
What To Know
- Two of the most popular options in this segment are the Kia Soul and the GMC Terrain.
- The Terrain, on the other hand, is a better choice for those who prioritize luxury, performance, and advanced technology.
- Both the Kia Soul and GMC Terrain have good reliability ratings, but the Soul has a slight edge in terms of long-term dependability.
The subcompact SUV market is heating up, with automakers bringing out their best to meet the growing demand for versatile and fuel-efficient vehicles. Two of the most popular options in this segment are the Kia Soul and the GMC Terrain. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of style, practicality, and performance, but which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the Kia Soul vs GMC Terrain debate, examining their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design: Edgy vs Rugged
The Kia Soul and GMC Terrain present contrasting exterior designs. The Soul boasts an unconventional boxy shape with a playful and youthful aesthetic. Its bold lines, sharp angles, and quirky detailing make it stand out from the crowd. In contrast, the Terrain exudes a more rugged and sophisticated appearance. Its angular bodywork, sculpted lines, and chrome accents give it a commanding presence on the road.
Interior Comfort and Convenience: Roomy vs Upscale
Inside, the Soul offers a spacious and versatile cabin. Its upright seating position provides excellent visibility, and the sliding rear seats allow for flexible cargo configurations. The Terrain, on the other hand, boasts a more upscale and refined interior. Its soft-touch materials, premium leather seats, and intuitive infotainment system create a luxurious and comfortable environment.
Performance and Fuel Economy: Peppy vs Efficient
Under the hood, the Kia Soul is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). The GMC Terrain offers a wider range of engine options, including a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.6-liter V6. The 1.5-liter engine provides the best fuel economy, while the V6 offers the most power.
Safety Features: Comprehensive vs Advanced
Both the Soul and Terrain come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Soul offers standard features such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Terrain goes a step further with advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Technology and Connectivity: Intuitive vs Sophisticated
When it comes to technology and connectivity, the Soul and Terrain both offer user-friendly infotainment systems. The Soul’s system features a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Terrain’s system boasts an 8-inch touchscreen, a premium Bose sound system, and built-in navigation.
Price and Value: Budget-Friendly vs Premium
The Kia Soul is priced competitively, starting at around $19,000. The GMC Terrain starts at a slightly higher price point of around $26,000. However, the Terrain offers a wider range of trim levels and features, which can significantly increase its price.
The Ultimate Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?
The Kia Soul and GMC Terrain are both excellent choices in the subcompact SUV segment. The Soul is a great option for buyers seeking a budget-friendly, versatile, and stylish vehicle. The Terrain, on the other hand, is a better choice for those who prioritize luxury, performance, and advanced technology. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Which SUV has the better fuel economy?
A: The GMC Terrain with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine offers the best fuel economy in the lineup.
Q2: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Kia Soul offers slightly more cargo space than the GMC Terrain.
Q3: Which SUV has the better off-road capabilities?
A: The GMC Terrain offers better off-road capabilities thanks to its available all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance.
Q4: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Both the Kia Soul and GMC Terrain have good reliability ratings, but the Soul has a slight edge in terms of long-term dependability.
Q5: Which SUV is cheaper to maintain?
A: The Kia Soul is generally cheaper to maintain than the GMC Terrain due to its lower cost of parts and labor.