Chevrolet
Spark
Owner report available
Kia
Soul
Owner report available
Chevrolet Spark vs Kia Soul
The short answer
Based on available data, the Kia Soul comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Spark on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Spark
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided, with a clear distinction between positive experiences with well-maintained examples and severe criticism focused on catastrophic transmission failures. A cohort of owners praises the Spark as a practical, fuel-efficient, and surprisingly well-equipped city car that is easy to drive and park, with some reporting trouble-free ownership beyond 30,000 miles. However, a very strong and specific criticism centers on the reliability of the continuously variable transmission (CVT), with multiple reports of complete failure, sometimes repeatedly, around the 120,000-140,000 mile mark, leading to stranded vehicles and significant repair costs.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to identify a consensus "best" trim or model year. One owner specifically recommended purchasing a brand-new example to ensure full warranty coverage and avoid used-car reliability risks.
Known issues
- CVT transmission failure: Complete failure requiring replacement, reported around 120,000-140,000 miles; some instances of replacement units failing again shortly thereafter. Frequency: recurrent.
- General reliability concerns: Broader perception of unreliability and frequent breakdowns beyond just the transmission, leading to consistent repair costs. Frequency: recurrent.
Soul
Overall
Mixed to negative sentiment, heavily dependent on model year and engine. The vehicle is consistently praised for its practicality, including exceptional interior roominess, good fuel economy, easy maneuverability, and overall value as a basic, economical transportation appliance. Long-term owners of specific years (e.g., 2011, 2020) report high satisfaction with minimal repairs and reliable service.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a single "best" version. Positive long-term reliability is anecdotally reported for the 2011 model year and for the 2020+ models with the 2.0L engine (non-turbo), provided they avoid the major engine failure issues.
Known issues
- Catastrophic engine failure (knocking, stalling, seizure) often preceded by excessive oil consumption: very frequent across 2010-2020 models. Linked to recalls and extended warranty programs.
- Excessive oil consumption/burning: recurrent, noted as a common precursor to major engine issues.
- Transmission problems: includes laggy acceleration, harsh clunking between gears (particularly 2nd to 3rd), "searching" for gears, and general lack of refinement. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Kia Soul is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Spark, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Chevrolet Spark is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Spark or the Kia Soul?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Spark and the Kia Soul. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Spark or the Kia Soul?
The Kia Soul seats more passengers than the Chevrolet Spark on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Chevrolet Spark is classed as a Hatchback, the Kia Soul as a Crossover.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Spark or the Kia Soul?
The EPA rates the 2022 Chevrolet Spark at 32–33 mpg combined and the 2025 Kia Soul at 30–31 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Spark or the Kia Soul?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Kia Soul than the Chevrolet Spark. See the known issues comparison above.