The Car Guide's Best Buys for 2021: Kia Soul

Every year, The Car Guide unveils a list of Best Buys covering all the different vehicle categories in the industry.

Seeing how popular utility vehicles are, we’ve decided to create a new category: Urban crossovers. These vehicles are a tad smaller than sub-compact SUVs and most are not available with all-wheel drive.

In this segment, there’s no better pick for 2021 than the Kia Soul. The versatile Korean hatchback offers a wide variety of models with a choice of two powertrains. The first is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine rated at 147 horsepower, while the second is an electric motor that impresses with 291 pound-feet of torque and super-quick acceleration. Depending on the battery, the available range is 248 km or 383 km.  

Both the gas-powered and zero-emission variants of the Kia Soul boast a spacious, practical interior with a user-friendly infotainment system on top of that.

Photo: Marc-André Gauthier

The Mazda CX-3 got our vote for second place. With the addition of the larger CX-30, the CX-3 can be categorized as an urban crossover now, although it does offer AWD as an option. Sharp handling and a great driving experience are big selling points here, but many will find the rear seats and cargo area too tight for their needs.

As for third place, the Nissan Kicks shines with excellent value. While the engine under the hood is not particularly strong, this crossover offers a smooth ride, roomy cabin and large trunk, making it a convenient daily driver.

Don’t miss our full list of Best Buys for 2021!

Share on Facebook

More on the subject

First Drives2020 Kia Soul: Owning the Boxy Wagon Niche
TORONTO (Ontario)— When the Kia Soul first hit the market in 2009, it not only carved its own niche, but also ushered in a new era for the Korean brand following the arrival of German designer Peter Schreyer. Back then, Kia was still trying to build a reputation in North …
NewsThe Car Guide's Best Buys for 2021: Mazda3
Every year, The Car Guide unveils a list of Best Buys covering all the different vehicle categories in the industry. When it comes to compact cars, the only major change for 2021 is the introduction of the completely redesigned Hyundai Elantra , which wasn’t on sale yet when we voted …
NewsThe Car Guide's Best Buys for 2021: Kia Rio
The Car Guide is back with its annual list of Best Buys covering all the different vehicle categories in the industry. While many automakers have abandoned small cars, most recently Hyundai (Accent), Toyota (Yaris) and Honda (Fit), a few models remain. After winning our Best Buy award in 2020, the …