
The 2016 Kia Soul EV competes most directly with the Nissan Leaf, the world's best-selling electric car by far.
The Soul EV wins for a design that's hip rather than weird, and slightly more real-world battery range, not to mention better interior space.
The electric Ford Focus hasn't changed notably in four years, and matches up to the Nissan Leaf but with a more conventional look, a nicer interior, but less cargo volume.
The BMW i3 and Tesla Model S are more expensive (and the Tesla is a lot more expensive), and we suspect the Soul EV would be more likely to join a Model S in the driveway than replace it.
Finally, the Ford C-Max Energi is a plug-in hybrid with roughly 20 miles of electric range; it too is a tall wagon, but it does have that dreaded gasoline engine.
All of these alternatives, however, are sold in far more regions than the Soul EV's very limited distribution.
Get FREE Dealer Quotes
![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quick Specs | |||||
The 2016 Kia Soul EV compares well to other small battery-electric cars, and its interior volume and slightly higher range give it an edge—but you can only buy one in limited areas. |
The 2016 BMW i3 is a futuristic and different kind of car, not just a new take on what a BMW represents. |
The 2016 Ford C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energi offer a sportier alternative to the Toyota Prius range that feels premium inside and more capable on the road. |
The 2016 Ford Focus Electric is fun to drive, though its range is lower than the Nissan Leaf and others; its "regular car" looks may appeal to some, but it's sold only in small numbers in a handful of markets. |
The 2016 Nissan Leaf remains a somewhat appliance-like drive, but its new range rating of 107 miles raises it to the top of its class—and it's still smooth, quiet, and calming to drive. |
There's still no direct competition for the 2016 Tesla Model S, which offers elegant design, 240 miles or more of all-electric range, and jaw-dropping acceleration in the higher-end models. It's one of a kind. |
MSRP From | |||||
$31,950 | $42,400 | $24,170 | $29,170 | $29,010 | $68,000 |
Gas Mileage | |||||
Coming Soon MPG City / Coming Soon MPG Hwy | Coming Soon MPG City / Coming Soon MPG Hwy | 40 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | Coming Soon MPG City / Coming Soon MPG Hwy | Coming Soon MPG City / Coming Soon MPG Hwy | Coming Soon MPG City / Coming Soon MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||||
Electric | Electric | Gas/Electric I-4 | Electric | Electric | Electric |
EPA Class | |||||
Small Station Wagons | Subcompact Cars | Large Cars | Compact Cars | Midsize Cars | Large Cars |
Style Name | |||||
5-Door Wagon EVe | 4-Door HB | 5-Door HB SE | 5-Door HB | 4-Door HB S *Ltd Avail* | 2016.5 4-Door Sedan RWD 60 |
Drivetrain | |||||
Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||||
5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | |||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||||
Hatchback | Hatchback | Hatchback | Hatchback | Hatchback | Hatchback 2016.5 |
Transmission | |||||
Automatic | Automatic | CVT w/OD | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
2016 Kia Soul EV vs. 2016 BMW i3 | 2016 Kia Soul EV vs. 2016 Ford C-Max | 2016 Kia Soul EV vs. 2016 Ford Focus Electric | 2016 Kia Soul EV vs. 2016 Nissan Leaf | 2016 Kia Soul EV vs. 2016 Tesla Model S |