With inflation, not many new cars are affordable. In addition, the cheapest ones usually sacrifice quality to get such a low price. As a result, it can be challenging to find an SUV that is both affordable and a high-quality and reliable model. However, there is one notable exception. Consumer Reports only recommends one new SUV that costs less than $20,000: the 2023 Kia Soul.
Consumer Reports recommends the 2023 Kia Soul, which costs less than $20,000
The 2023 Kia Soul subcompact crossover SUV, starting at $19,790 MSRP, is one of the cheapest new SUVs available. The only other new SUV sold in the United States that costs less than $20,000 is the 2023 Hyundai Venue, which starts at $19,500 at MSRP. Unlike the Venue 2023, however, the Soul 2023, with its excellent reliability, is recommended by Consumer Reports. As one of the most trusted authorities for automotive assessments, CR’s recommendation carries a lot of weight.
Kia Soul crossover SUV: Recently recommended by CR
This Consumer Reports recommendation is new for the 2023 Kia Soul. Last year, CR did not recommend the Soul. However, CR added the crossover SUV to its list of recommendations following its recently released Car Reliability Survey.
For the Automotive Reliability Survey, Consumer Reports analyzed 17 potential problem areas over the previous 12 months, surveying more than 300,000 vehicles. Examples include paint, leaks, electrical systems, engine, noise, and brakes. The organization then calculated the predicted reliability ratings of all new vehicles, including the Soul, using the survey results. And with the increased reliability of the 2023 Soul, Consumer Reports now recommends the crossover SUV.
New exterior styling for the 2023 Soul
In addition to earning the coveted Consumer Reports recommendation, the affordable 2023 Kia Soul crossover SUV has a refreshed exterior design. Specifically, it features a new look for the front and rear of the vehicle. Up front, the new fascia gets a new grille with available LED headlamps and turn signals, redesigned daytime running lights and fog lights. Additionally, at the rear of the 2023 Soul, there is a redesigned rear fascia with new taillights. In addition, the crossover SUV has new 17-inch and 18-inch wheel designs.
In addition, the 2023 Soul has two new exterior paint color options: Surf Blue and Fusion White. While the Soul has much of the same interior, it offers a new 10.25-inch touchscreen with a navigation system.
In addition, the 2023 Soul offers new standard driver-assist technologies. This includes Driver Attention Warning, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist for Pedestrians.
However, for those who want more performance, there is one disappointing aspect of the 2023 Soul. The turbocharged engine is no longer available. The only engine on offer is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, making 147 horsepower.
2023 Kia Soul: Affordable and Reliable SUV Recommended by Consumer Reports
If you’re on a tight budget and looking for an affordable yet reliable SUV, then the 2023 Kia Soul is a great choice. It’s the only Consumer Reports-recommended SUV that costs less than $20,000.