Toyota Matrix vs Kia Soul

A subcompact hatchback is a practical and economical choice when you need a small car that can get you from here to there without using a lot of fuel or taking up a lot of road space. A Toyota Matrix vs. Kia Soul comparison helps you understand the typical features and specifications of each type of car, as these two models are among those worth considering when you are in the market for a small vehicle. Buyerlink is a great source for unbiased information about car buying.

Toyota Matrix advantages:

• Easy to maneuver in city traffic

• Better gas mileage (for the basic model)

Kia Soul Advantages:

• Roomier interior

• Six-speed basic transmission

• Lower price

• Unique exterior design

• More extensive standard features

• Longer warranty

Toyota Matrix powertrain:

• 1.8-liter displacement

• Inline-four engine

• 132 horsepower at 6,000 revolutions per minute (rpm)

• 128 foot-pounds of torque at 4,400 rpm

• 26 miles per gallon (city)/32 mpg (highway) for the basic configuration

• This engine is paired with a standard manual five-speed transmission.

Kia Soul powertrain:

• 1.6-liter displacement

• Inline-four engine

• 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm

• 123 foot-pounds of torque at 4,850 rpm

• 25 mpg (city)/30 mpg (highway)

The Soul is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission when sold with this engine.

The Toyota Matrix has a powerful engine upgrade:

• 2.4-liter displacement

• 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm

• 162 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm

• 21 mpg (city)/29 mpg (highway)

Matrix models based on this larger engine are equipped with a five-speed shiftable automatic transmission.

Kia Soul powerful engine upgrade:

• 2.0-liter displacement

• 164 horsepower at 6,500 rpm

• 148 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm

• 23 mpg (city)/28 mpg (highway)

This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

When it comes to general performance, both cars are about equal. The Kia has an edge as far as safety is concerned, as the new model follows earlier models that earned top places in car rankings provided by the two major American highway safety testing organizations. The Toyota is certainly a safe car as well, but some experts are concerned about outward visibility issues.

The Kia is also a winner when it comes to standard features; even the low-priced base model includes climate control, tilt and telescoping steering, power windows, satellite radio, a CD player, USB and aux jacks for electronic devices and a split rear seat that folds easily. The Matrix does include Bluetooth connectivity, which is optional on the Soul.

Get local Toyota Matrix vs Kia Soul price quotes now!

The Soul really stands out when it comes to exterior design, whereas the Matrix presents a typical, conventional hatchback style. Inside, you'll find more room in the Soul, although both interiors are well arranged and quite comfortable for cars of their size.

The Matrix basic warranty is three years or 36,000 miles, whereas the Kia features a five-year or 60,000-mile basic warranty. The drivetrain warranty for the Matrix lasts five years or 60,000 miles, whereas Kia backs the Soul with a 10-year or 100,000-mile drivetrain warranty. 

Check a reliable automotive buyer's guide to find out more about any hatchback that you are considering purchasing this year. Before you decide between the Matrix and the Soul, use Buyerlink to find local dealers to  set up test drives for each car to complete your Toyota Matrix vs. Kia Soul comparison. Don't forget to research the actual cost of each car you want with your choice of features by getting quotes from several dealers.