Compared: 2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2022 Kia Soul

Both these subcompact crossovers have a distinct personality, with one favoring capability and the other highlighting style.

Jill Ciminillo | 

Sep 11, 2023 | 3 min read

Subaru | Kia

The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek aims to lure buyers in with its rugged design and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). In comparison, the boxy 2022 Kia Soul should appeal to those looking for a bolder design and lower starting price. Beyond the urban or trailblazing designs of each, there are plenty of other differences between these two subcompact SUVs.

Subaru | Kia

2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2022 Kia Soul: Price

With a starting price of around $21,000, the base 2022 Kia Soul may appeal to buyers on a tight budget. In that spec, the Soul is equipped with a 147-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and a continuously variable transmission.

But much of the safety technology we've come to expect as standard — think automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist — is optional here. If you want adaptive cruise control or a head-up display, you'll need to upgrade to the top-of-the-line Turbo model. It starts at around $29,000, and is the only trim to get the 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Subaru Crosstrek starts at around $24,000. For that price, it comes with a manual transmission, a 152-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and all-wheel drive. The automatic transmission is an option for just over $1,300. Automatic versions of the Crosstrek also gain some standard content, including lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automated emergency braking.

The Crosstrek Sport trim starts at around $28,000, while the well-equipped Limited trim starts at around $30,000. Both get an upgraded 182-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. At around $37,000, the Crosstrek Hybrid is the most expensive version, and features a plug-in-hybrid powertrain.

Subaru | Kia

2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2022 Kia Soul: Features

With its AWD-only powertrain, standard roof rails, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and wheel-arch cladding, the Subaru is more of an outdoorsy, adventure-ready vehicle than the Kia. For those muddy moments, the Sport model also has easy-to-clean, water-repellent upholstery.

In the tech department, the base-model Crosstrek feels slightly dated. This model features analog gauges and a smallish infotainment screen. In comparison, the Soul's standard 8.0-inch display is the same size as the Crosstrek's premium one, and Kia equips all but its entry-level model with a 10.0-inch unit. However, the Crosstrek offers a few things the Soul doesn't, including leather seats, a heated windshield, and a fuel-efficient electrified powertrain.

Sizewise, the Subaru is about 11 inches longer than the Soul. Because of the latter's upright stance, however, the Soul has a bit more passenger space, along with an additional 3 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seats.

Subaru | Kia

2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2022 Kia Soul: Fuel economy

Though the Subaru has AWD, the base Soul and Crosstrek have identical EPA fuel-economy estimates. Both are rated at 30 mpg.

The turbocharged Kia gets 29 mpg, while the more powerful Subaru returns 29 mpg. Stick with the Crosstrek's manual transmission and you'll see the lowest fuel economy of the lot: 25 mpg.

Unsurprisingly, the best of the bunch is the Crosstrek Hybrid. The plug-in hybrid delivers up to 90 MPGe combined and 17 miles of electric-only range.

Jill Ciminillo

Jill Ciminillo is a Chicago-based automotive writer, YouTube personality, and podcast host, with her articles and videos appearing in outlets throughout the U.S. Additionally, she co-hosts a weekly radio show on cars for a local Chicago station. Previously, Jill has been the automotive editor for both newspaper and broadcast media conglomerates. She is also a past president for the Midwest Automotive Media Association and has the distinction of being the first female president for that organization.