2020 Kia Soul Vs. 2020 Fiat 500L

Although the market for small boxy crossovers was the hottest at the time of the Kia Soul’s debut over ten years ago, it’s always been one of the most focused segments in the automotive world. Vehicles in the subcompact crossover space, especially ones with corners, are great options for drivers who want capability, comfort and award-winning technology in a sporty package. While the Kia Soul has been the strongest option in this field, it’s not the only one.

Today, we’re comparing the all-new 2020 Kia Soul to another funky small crossover – the 2020 Fiat 500L. Where the Kia Soul zigs, the Fiat 500L zags. It throws away the sporty qualities of the Kia Soul for Italian whimsy. Is it the stronger option, though? Let’s see how these two models compare.

2020 Kia Soul	Vs.	2020 FIAT 500L
2.0-liter 4-cylinder (147)	Base engine (horsepower)	1.4-liter turbo (160)
30 MPG/regular (IVT)	Base combined MPG/fuel	25 MPG/premium
Yes – 201-horsepower Kia Soul GT-Line Turbo	Performance variant	No
41.1 inches/38.8 inches	Legroom (front/rear)	40 inches/36.7 inches
24.2 cubic feet with seats up	Cargo space	22.4 cubic feet with seats up
7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto	Infotainment system	7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
10 years/100,000 miles	Engine/powertrain warranty	4 years/50,000 miles
5 years/60,000 miles	Limited warranty	4 years/50,000 miles
Top Safety Pick +	IIHS safety designation	Not recommended by IIHS
$17,490	MSRP starts at	$22,500

Reliability, Warranty Coverage, Fuel Efficiency and Safety Features Push the Kia Soul Well Ahead of the Quirky FIAT 500L

The above chart illustrates the two different approaches adopted by Kia and Fiat with regards to the increasingly-popular subcompact crossover segment.

For Kia, the segment is an opportunity to offer more for less and deliver staggering value for drivers who want to enjoy comfort, confidence and panache in an economical and agile package. Though a bit lighter on power, the standard 4-cylinder engine blasts past that of the 500L while demanding less-expensive regular fuel. Those who want more oomph, however, can choose the GT-Line Turbo’s 1.6-liter turbocharged engine for 200+ horsies of fun.

Inside, the Kia Soul is meant to relax and delight. A standard infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is matched by the FIAT 500L but drivers and passengers will both appreciate the extra legroom and cargo space available when seating is up and in use.

The Kia Soul is not without quirks, though. Drivers who want some fun and function will love the lighted speaker surrounds that change color and flash in time to your music as well as the incredible palette of colors that are available for the 2020 Kia Soul, including many duo-tone options.

Finally, a powertrain warranty that is twice as long as the one found on the 500L and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS mark the 2020 Kia Soul as a crossover where confidence is included at no extra charge.

For more information on the 2020 Kia Soul or to schedule a test drive, contact us today!