Topic: Help! Trying to decide between a 2009 SX4 and Kia Soul

[flipflops]

They're both around the same price range...parts and reputation wise, which is better? Both have had really good reviews. One is considered an under dog that isn't advertised nearly enough and the other is brand spanking new, so no word yet on reliability, service scares, etc...

[Shnak]

I wouldn't be scared of the Soul's reliability... it's using a proven powertrain combo that many other Hyundai/Kia vehicles have used in the past few years. And as far as I know, the SX4 has been pretty reliable so far.

With that said, I really like the SX4, but would need to test its new-for-2010 CVT transmission before buying one...

If you want AWD, then it's a no brainer.

Both great little vehicles, can't go wrong, IMO.

[Flinter]

My Spouse/Partner has the 2007 SX4 hatchback (5-sp man., AWD, JLX trim), It's a little over 3 years old now. She uses this as a daily driver and so far we have had ~75,000km of mostly trouble free operation. Only problems we experienced have occurred in the last 6 months. (1 wheel bearing and a bad alternator that were covered under warranty)

Likes
- Fairly reliable. Hopefully the 2 minor issues experienced lately are not a sign of things to come.
- It is a surprisingly fun to drive for an economy car.
- The chassis has a very solid/substantial feel similar to many German brands.
- AWD has been very useful here in Ottawa. With 4 snow tires this thing is virtually unstoppable in the winter.
- Attractive styling and a pretty decent interior for an economy car. The interior has also held up very well for us.
- Small footprint makes this a very maneuverable daily driver.
- Hatchback design has lots of utility and cargo room.
- High roofline with lots of glass gives the car an open airy feel.
- Raised seating position similar to a traditional SUV makes entry/exit very easy.
- Great bang for the buck.

Dislikes
- Fuel economy has not been great compared with similar sized FWD cars on the market. This might be less of an issue on the 2010 model.
- Small fuel tank leads to frequent stops at the gas station.
- The car would be much better with another 20-30hp.
- It could use a taller 5th gear or a 6 speed to improve fuel efficiency on the highway. I understand this has been addressed on the 2010 model.
- The manual shifter is not up to the same standards that I have experienced in Honda products.
- The design of the A pillar and triangle shaped side windows creates a bad blind spot for drivers of a certain height.
- The turn signals are virtually inaudible. I know this seems like a small issue but it is always embarrassing to discover you have been inadvertently driving down the highway with your turn signal on.

Overall we've been happy with the car. I also understand that the 2010 models have a new 6 speed manual and an all new 2L engine. In addition, as Shnak mentioned, the earlier automatic transmission has been replaced with a CVT which may be an issue for some buyers.

I would also encourage you to take a look at the Subaru Impreza 5-door hatch. I think it is also a great value in this segment.

[stodge]

Which CVT - the one in the Dodge or the one used by Nissan? If it's Nissan's, then I would recommend it.