Nissan Juke and Kia Soul have two years difference in production year with the Nissan model introduction in 2010 and Kia model introduction in 2008. When we review the features we come across a lot of dissimilarities, though in many markets the two vehicles are considered to be cannibalizing sales of each other.
Country of Origin
The dissimilarities of being from different countries, is something hard to ignore. Nissan is a Japanese brand standing at 6th position across globe, while Kia is a South Korean brand on 2nd position in South Korean brands and in global perspective it is a bit far. Though both the vehicles were manufactured in UK focusing on that region exclusively in the beginning, but there is a brand perception difference we see in the eyes of buyers.
Body Engineering
The second dissimilarity is that of the body size with body style difference. The Nissan Juke is a mini SUV while the Kia Soul is the hatchback. The Nissan Juke has a bit taller body with more road visibility and greater interior space. The Kia Soul on the other hand brings in more fuel efficiency with ride and handling advantage. It is because of the lower base that driving experience becomes smoother. The dumps on road are felt to the minimum, though in case of large size ones, the lower part of the vehicle can get affected.
Target Design
The Kia Soul brings with it the tiger nose designed grill, which is the brain child of Peter Schreyer, the designer of Audi TT and Volkswagen. There were two types of car body introduced; the Soul Diva for style conscious young woman in white, gold and black color alongside the bad boy Soul Burner with 4 bucket seats and tough looking bumper for sports touch.
The Nissan Juke styling is closely considered making it unique among all. Whether it is about the prominent wheel arches or the car body high waistline in contrast to sleek windows on side all things are refined to the best. The coupe like look is given with rear door handles located near the C pillar, hence this 5 door SUV brings in a sporty coupe look.
The Latest Technology
Both the vehicles are now trying their hands on Hybrid version. The Kia Soul has brought its hybrid version earlier than Nissan Juke being a winner in this domain. The Kia hybrid was introduced in 2008, with 1.6 L petrol engine in Continuously Variable Transmission. The Nissan Hybrid is expected to be launched in near future and is expected to be similar to 2011 models, but final words are yet to be known.
Aside from this the technology features that work on providing comfort ability inside through Climate Control System; safety with dual air bags, Traction Control, Anti-lock Braking System and Electronic force Brake Distribution is intact; aside from infotainment through single screen acting as a TV and navigation.
Fuel Consumption / MPG
Average fuel consumption of Nissan Juke is about 30 MPG while Kia Soul consumes 1 gallon per 29 miles.
Price
Used Nissan Juke can be bought within price range of 5000$ to 10000$ while the price range of used kia soul can be from 4500$ -11000$ .
Conclusion
In some fronts Nissan Juke is the hero, while in others Kia Soul is better. The customers are the best judge for the success. So which car do you think is the best?