The market is jam-packed with compact SUVs. Every auto manufacturer has at least one, if not more, so what makes a compact SUV stand out from the crowd? One place you can turn to find out is Kia. They have two compact SUVs on Car and Driver’s “Editors’ Choice” list. Both the 2023 Kia Soul and the Niro both made the cut, but a used Kia Soul or Kia Nira are also top choices for compact SUV buyers.

The Kia Soul Stands Out in a Crowd

The Kia Soul first arrived in 2008, and its funky, boxy shape continues to appeal to drivers. While the new 2023 model made the “Editors’ Choice” list, there are also many used Kia Souls available too. No matter what model year you find, the Soul’s unique design creates lots of usable space in the cabin, and it comes with cool and fun interior features, such as an Infinity stereo system and customizable interior lighting with LEDs that can pulse along with the beat of the music.

The Kia Niro Gives More Than the Average Small SUV

The Kia Niro is not just a one-trick pony. It comes with a hybrid powertrain and an optional plug-in hybrid with some extra power. The hybrid can get up to 49 mpg, and if you have the plug-in hybrid, it not only gets up to 26 miles of all-electric range, it can get up to 46 mpg combined.
If you’re looking for pure electric power, the Niro EV is another option. This electric SUV is not only affordable, but it can also go up to 253 miles on a fully charged battery.

It’s Not Just About the New Models

While the 2023 Kia Niro and Soul are top choices for compact SUVs, it’s not just about the latest and greatest. If you find a used Kia Soul, it could still be an award winner. The 2021 Soul is a J.D. Power Quality Winner, and the 2018 is on the Kelley Blue Book Coolest Cars Under $20,00 list and the Best Compact Cars for the Money list by U.S. News and World Report.

The Kia Sportage is a Strong Competitor in the Compact SUV Category

The Soul and Niro are not the only Kias to make Car and Driver’s Editor’s Choice list. The Sportage made the list in the compact SUV segment. This Kia offers a choice between a gas and a hybrid powertrain, and the cabin feels very spacious for a small SUV. Do you love tech? You’ll get plenty of the latest tech features to play with in the Sportage. The available 12.2-inch touchscreen has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and comes with an onboard navigation system. Wireless charging in the Sportage means you can get rid of some of the cords, but the available USB charging ports in the back mean your rear-seat passengers can stay charged up.

Looking for your next compact SUV? A new or used Kia Soul is a top choice and award winner no matter what model year you find.