The subcompact car category includes a lot of popular models such as the Toyota Yaris and the Kia Soul. Our team here at Serra Toyota is going to bring them head-to-head to give drivers a better idea of how the two compare. It can be difficult to determine exactly which vehicle is best, so prospective new car buyers have to do their research. We hope to make the overall process easier by providing comparisons between the base models of these two subcompact hatchbacks.
Both the Yaris and the Soul offer seating for five passengers, but the Soul has quite a bit more interior volume overall. The Yaris has 15.6 cubic feet of cargo space, whereas the Soul offers 24.2 cubic feet. Drivers who choose the Toyota Yaris will have the choice between a 3-door and a 5-door model, which allows for more personalization. Overall, the Yaris is more fuel efficient than the Soul and will ultimately save more on fuel costs.
2016 Toyota Yaris L 5-door | VS | 2016 Kia Soul Base |
Standard | CD Player | Not available |
30 city/36 hwy | MPG | 24 city/30 hwy |
Optional | Navigational System | Not available |
Standard | Front Knee Airbags | Not available |
When it comes to performance capabilities, these two subcompact hatchbacks have a lot in common. They’re equipped with similar size engines, but the Soul pumps out more horsepower overall. Both of them are standard with front-wheel drive as well. Where they differ is with the transmission. The 2016 Toyota Yaris L 5-door model comes set with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and the 2016 Kia Soul Base is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. Drivers can easily make a decision between the two based on their transmission preference.
Continuing on to safety features, the Yaris and the Soul offer quite a bit of the same systems. These include a brake assist system, child safety door locks, electronic traction control and low tire pressure indicators to ensure properly inflated tires at all times. One way the 2016 Toyota Yaris stands out from the competition is with standard front knee airbags that are not available in the Soul. In addition to the safety features, these two share a lot of the same technology and convenience features as well. To name a few, both the Yaris and the Soul comes standard with outside temperature gauges, cloth seats, an MP3 player, a rear split folding bench seat for easier storage and Bluetooth hands free telephone access. The Yaris shines brighter in a few categories with a standard CD player, cargo area cover and optional navigational system.
Those interested in learning more about the Toyota Yaris are welcome to contact our team here at Serra Toyota for more information. Drivers looking the get behind the wheel of this compact hatchback can do so by scheduling a test drive online.