Volkswagen e-Golf vs. Kia Soul EV

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Volkswagen e-Golf and Kia Soul EV contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Volkswagen e-Golf and the Kia Soul EV.

When comparing the Volkswagen e-Golf's and the Kia Soul EV's specifications and ratings, the Volkswagen e-Golf has the advantage in the areas of resale value, interior volume and base engine power. The Kia Soul EV has the advantage in the area of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars. Based on this comparison of the Volkswagen e-Golf's and the Kia Soul EV's specifications and ratings, the Volkswagen e-Golf is a better car than the Kia Soul EV.

Pricing: A used 2019 Volkswagen e-Golf ranges from $14,000 to $22,997 while a used 2019 Kia Soul EV is priced between $12,938 to $23,393.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Volkswagen e-Golf loses 47.2 percent of its value and the Kia Soul EV loses 49.9 percent of its value. This means the Volkswagen e-Golf retains 2.7 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Kia Soul EV.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Volkswagen e-Golf’s base engine makes 134 horsepower, and the Kia Soul EV base engine makes 109 horsepower. The e-Golf is rated to deliver an average of 126 miles per gallon of gasoline-equivalent (MPGe), with a highway range of 125 miles. The Soul EV is rated to deliver an average of 124 miles per gallon of gasoline-equivalent (MPGe), with a highway range of 111 miles. This gives the Volkswagen e-Golf the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Kia Soul EV. Both models use electricity. The charge time for the e-Golf is 3.7 hours (240V), while the charge time for the Soul EV is 33 hours (120V).

Passenger Space Comparison: The Volkswagen e-Golf has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front shoulder room, front leg room, and cargo space. The Kia Soul EV has the advantage in the areas of front head room, rear head room, rear shoulder room and rear leg room.