10 Fun and Quirky Alternatives to the Kia Soul for 2025

Kia Soul Alternatives: You are not alone if you adore the Kia Soul for its distinct design and usefulness.  It is a favorite among weekend traveler and city commuters due to its affordable pricing, roomy interior and quirky style.  However what if you’d rather something even more useful or equally eccentric?

We’ve rounded up 10 alternatives to the Kia Soul in 2025 that offer personality, cargo space, and everyday usability. From new models to cult favorites no longer in production, there’s something here for everyone.

1. 2026 Honda HR-V – Compact and Clever

MSRP base: $26,200

• 2.0L Inline 4 engine
• CVT transmission
• Transmission: FWD | AWD
• 158 horsepower
• Space for Cargo: 24.4–55.1 cubic feet

Despite its modest size the Honda HR V is a powerful vehicle.  Based on the Civic platform, it has a useful load compartment and is nimble for city driving. It is a flexible alternative for all-season commuting because AWD is optional.

2. 2026 Mazda CX 30: Stylish and Sporty

MSRP base: $25975

• 2.5L Inline 4/Turbo 2.5L engine
• 6-speed automatic transmission
• AWD drivetrain
• Power: 186–227 horsepower
• Space for Cargo: 20.2–45.2 cubic feet

Want to combine your practicality with flair and power? The CX-30 delivers.  The cabin seems luxurious for its class, and turbocharged variants add even more thrill. Mazda’s captivating drive makes up for a slightly smaller cargo hold.

3. 2026 Hyundai Kona – Quirky With Capabilities

Base MSRP: $25,350

• Engine: 2.0L / 1.6L Turbo
• Transmission: CVT / 8 speed Automatic
• AWD/FWD drivetrain
• Horsepower range: 147–190
• Cargo Space: 26–64 cu ft

The Kona’s bold design turns heads while remaining practical. Optional AWD and generous cargo capacity make it a strong competitor for those who like fun and function.

4. 2026 Buick Envista – Stylish and Smart

MSRP base: $24,600

• 1.2L Turbo Inline-3 engine
• 6-speed automatic transmission
• Drivetrain: FWD
• 137 horsepower
• Space for Cargo: 21–42 cubic feet

The Buick Envista stands out as a sophisticated substitute because to its luxurious interior and technologically advanced cockpit. It is ideal for daily commuting because of its small but effective engine.

5. 2026 Kia Seltos – Bigger Brother Energy

MSRP base: $23,690

• 2.0L or 1.6L turbocharged engine
• CVT 8-speed automatic transmission
• AWD/FWD drivetrain
• Between 147 – 190 hp
• Space for Cargo: 27–63 cubic feet

The Seltos is a good option if you like the Soul but need more space. Top versions come standard with AWD, and the cargo capacity is competitive with the Kona, making it a versatile vehicle for both weekend trips and city living.

6. 2026 Nissan Kicks – Affordable Personality

MSRP base: $21,830

• 2.0L Inline-4 engine
• CVT transmission
• Transmission: FWD | AWD
• 141 horsepower
• Space for Cargo: 24–50 cubic feet

The 2025 Nissan Kicks which has been redesigned, offers both value and eccentricity. It is the perfect Soul substitute for buyers on a tight budget because of its contemporary interior, available AWD, and affordable price.

7. 2026 Chevrolet Trax: An SUV with Value

 Base MSRP: $20500

• Engine: Inline 4 1.2L Turbo
• Automatic 6-speed transmission
• The FWD drivetrain
• Power output: 137 horsepower
• 26–54 cu ft of space for cargo

Consider the Trax to be the Soul’s more affordable and useful substitute. Its spacious interior and simple operation make up for its lack of AWD.

8. 2026 Hyundai Venue – City Mouse Extraordinaire

MSRP base: $20,200

• Engine: Inline-4 1.6L
• Transmission: CVT
• Transmission: FWD
• Power: 121 horsepower
• 18.7 to 31.9 cubic feet of cargo space

The venue is compact but incredibly agile. It is ideal for urbanites looking for unique design because of its small size which makes parking and navigating city streets a breeze.

9. 2022 Ford EcoSport – Mighty-Mouse Utility

Used Price: $19,000–$24,000

• Engine: 2.0L Inline 4
• Transmission: 6 speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: AWD
• Horsepower: 166 hp
• Cargo Space: 20.9–50 cu ft
  

No longer produced but worth mentioning, the EcoSport offers AWD and a surprisingly powerful engine in a tiny package. Great for those who want utility and personality in a compact SUV.

10. 2003–2011 Honda Element – The Quirky Legend

Used Price: $4,000–$15,000

• Engine: 2.4L Inline 4
• Transmission: 5 speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: FWD | AWD
• Horsepower: 166 hp
• Cargo Space: 25–74.6 cu ft
  

For ultimate practicality with an offbeat vibe, the Honda Element remains unmatched. Its unique folding seats, massive cargo capacity and durable interior make it a cult favorite—even years after production ended.

Final Thought

Although the Kia Soul is unquestionably distinctive, a growing number of oddball yet useful SUVs are also making an impression.  One of these options is sure to suit your lifestyle whether you’re looking for maximum cargo room, high-end technology or sporty fun.

FAQ’s

Q1: Which option to the Kia Soul is the most affordable?

A: The least valuable model are the Chevrolet Trax ($20500) and Hyundai Venue ($20200).

Q2: Which vehicle has the largest room for cargo?

A: The Honda Element top the chart with up to 74.6 cubic feet of cargo space with seat folded.

Q3: Are AWD options available for these SUVs?

A: Many models including the Kia Seltos, Nissan Kicks, Hyundai Kona and Ford EcoSport, offer AWD option.

Q4: Are there any discontinued model worth considering?

A: Yes The Honda Element, Jeep Renegade (2022) and Ford EcoSport (2022) are excellent used option for quirky and practical SUV lover.

Also Read: 5 Legendary Cars That Shocked the World With Fiberglass Bodies