It's not uncommon for two similar vehicles to be on the same shopping list, but for both to be electric AND offered by the same manufacturer, it's special. This will be common in a few years, but in 2020, it remains the exception rather than the rule.
But at Kia, we find this situation when people are looking at two very similarly sized SUVs, the Niro EV and the Soul EV. What's worse, they have the same electric architecture, so their specs are very similar, with one exception.
And since they are both Kia products, the level of equipment is the same on both sides in terms of the asking price.
Consequently, how do you choose? What can tip the scale one way or the other?
To get to the heart of the matter, let's take the time to analyze the personality of each vehicle and draw out its strengths. These will give you an idea of where your allegiance lies.
The Soul EV
The Soul EV can be served in two ways, as a Premium or Limited version. In addition to the difference in equipment, both offer different capacities due to the size of their battery pack.
The first, with 39.2 kWh, offers a range of 248 km, which is more suitable for people who rarely have to travel long distances in a single day. If you live in an urban area or close to a major center, this version may be just right for you.
The second one, with a 64 kWh format, allows an electrical freedom of 383 kilometers. In its case, even if it is suitable for people who live in large centers, it will prove more practical for those who live in the regions or who are used to traveling a few hundred kilometers a day, or at least drive longer distances when going out.
Niro EV
With the Niro EV, only one configuration is possible for the battery, 64 kWh. The autonomy is practically the same as with the Soul, i.e. 385 kilometers.
So what is the advantage of choosing the latter?
The Niro offers a different driving experience than the Soul. In fact, it offers a slightly higher level of comfort, as well as a slightly more refined ride. In the case of the Soul, it's a little more nervous, because it's more compact and weighs a little less.
It's minimal, however, while both models offer excellent levels of performance and driving pleasure.
In fact, if you want to pay a little less and the 250-kilometre range suits you, the choice is easy, and that's Soul. If you want the models with the most capacity, then you'll have to choose between the two. At the end of the day, it's your heart that's going to do the talking. Will you prefer the rebellious and unique design of the Soul or the more traditional and temperate design of the Niro?
Either way, you're making a great choice.
