2023 Hyundai Venue vs. 2023 Soul in San Antonio, TX
2023 Hyundai Venue vs. 2023 Kia Soul
The 2023 Hyundai Venue and the 2023 Kia Soul are two of a very long list of subcompact crossovers. Subcompact crossovers are popular urban runabouts that offer enough space for couples and small families, with an elevated driving position and compact road footprint. As roads become crowded and parking spaces shrink, many turn to the segment for their next vehicle.
The 2023 Venue is based on the first generation of the nameplate, which debuted in 2020. The 2023 Soul comes from the third generation, which debuted in 2019. Both SUVs are made in South Korea.
Let's compare the 2023 Venue vs. Soul to see which is ahead in the running for the best subcompact crossover. We'll focus on their respective interior, performance, and safety attributes in this Hyundai vs. Kia matchup. And if you want to see the new Venue in the metal, call our team at Red McCombs Hyundai Northwest in San Antonio, TX.
Interior Comparison
The 2023 Venue is 6 inches shorter and 1 inch narrower than the 2023 Soul. This makes it supremely maneuverable in the city. Plus, it doesn't really lose much passenger or cargo space as a result. You can still fit five adults in the cabin. However, with the subcompact crossover segment, it's better to stick with four adults for more extended journeys if you don't want to hear too many complaints. The 2023 Venue also offers a 60-40 split folding rear seat for greater versatility.
The 2023 Venue and 2023 Soul feature climate control, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and touch-screen infotainment systems. You'll also find the 2023 Venue's cabin design more ergonomically friendly and less cluttered than the 2023 Soul, with its hotch-potch of circular, triangular, and angular design elements. Options on both cars include wireless phone charging pads, a sunroof, and heated front seats.
Hyundai Venue Interior
Kia Soul Interior
Performance Comparison
The 2023 Venue offers a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine that sends power to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox. The gearbox also offers a manual shifting mode via the gear lever, with simulated ratios. Car and Driver found the 2023 Venue agile and easy to drive in crowded urban centers.
The 2023 Soul offers a bit more power from its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 horsepower. However, it still uses a CVT gearbox and drives the front wheels, so there's no significant difference from the 2023 Venue. You can also choose the GT-Line variant that brings a 201-horsepower 1.6-liter turbo four to the table, albeit with much higher fuel consumption.
However, the Venue's efficient engine results in an EPA combined figure of 31 mpg. This contrasts with the 30 mpg figure that the 2023 Soul can struggle to achieve, while the 2023 Soul GT-Line doesn’t even reach the thirties.
Safety Features Comparison
The 2023 Venue and the 2023 Soul come with at least six airbags, stability control, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, daytime running lamps, and child safety locks. The 2023 Venue also includes a driver-attention monitor across the range.
Find the 2023 Venue in San Antonio, TX
Buyers of subcompact crossovers value practicality, frugality, and ease of driving. The 2023 Venue offers all these things in spades, and that’s why it’s the winner in this Hyundai vs. Kia shootout. Yes, the 2023 Soul may offer a spicier powertrain on the GT-Line, but not many buyers will want to stomach the increased thirst and pump visit frequency. So swing by Red McCombs Hyundai Northwest in San Antonio, TX, today and test drive the new Venue. Then, you can see what it’s all about.