The Kia Soul EV is a small electric SUV with a roomy cabin and a good amount of standard equipment but other small electric cars can travel further on a single charge.
Pros Cheap to run Funky styling Well-equipped
Cons Expensive to buy Limited electric range Alternatives have bigger boots
The 2021 Kia Soul EV leads the battery charge, fashion first.
Pros Bigger battery pack Promise of 200-mile-plus range Savvy new style Wide-screen infotainment and displays
Cons Where will you be able to buy one? Charge specs TBD
The 2020 Kia Soul's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. It was the winner of our 2020 Best Subcompact SUV for the Money award and the winner of our 2019 Best New Cars for Teens award. Currently the Kia Soul has a score of 8.5 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Large cargo capacity User-friendly tech features Comfortable, roomy seats
Cons Middling interior quality Rivals are more athletic
New 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides more power.More standard driver assist features on automatic-equipped Crosstreks.Part of the second Crosstrek generation introduced for 2018.
Pros High ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability Spacious seating for a hatchback of its size Comfortable ride quality Easy to see out of
Cons Slow acceleration on the highway with base engine Mediocre cargo space Handling isn't as precise as that of some rivals
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek flexes a more potent available powertrain but still prioritizes safety and capability.
Pros Excellent CVT Off-road capable, rugged looks Standard AWD New Sport trim Standard safety tech
Cons Cramped USB ports Limited-release hybrid Manual transmission omits more than it adds Limited trim not a value
Along with a light visual refresh that includes new front bumper and grille designs, the 2021 Crosstrek gains a Sport model and a more powerful engine option. The new 2.5-liter flat-four has been lifted from the mid-size Legacy sedan and Outback station wagon and plopped under the hood of Sport and Limited models of the Crosstrek; the languid 2.0-liter engine is still in the mix, but relegated to the base and Premium models only.