Kia Soul EV Vs BMW I3: Range, Price, Performance Compared

The rise of electric vehicles has brought exciting options to the market, with the Kia Soul EV and BMW i3 standing out as compelling choices for urban drivers. The Kia Soul EV offers a budget-friendly entry into zero-emission driving with its boxy, practical design, while the BMW i3 delivers premium engineering and agile handling in a futuristic package. This comparison dives deep into their specifications, real-world performance, and ownership experience to determine which one better suits modern needs.

Design and Build: Style Meets Functionality

Both vehicles embrace distinctive looks that set them apart from conventional cars. The BMW i3, produced from 2013 to 2022, features a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic body over an aluminum chassis, making it remarkably lightweight at around 2,961 pounds for the 94 Ah model. Its narrow stance, rear-hinged doors, and suicide-style rear access give it a bold, unconventional appearance ideal for city parking.

In contrast, the Kia Soul EV, especially the 2020+ Long Range version, adopts a taller SUV-like hatchback profile with a curb weight of 3,876 pounds. Built in South Korea, it measures 165.2 inches long and 63.2 inches high, providing a more commanding road presence. The Soul’s blocky shape maximizes interior room without sacrificing aerodynamics.

While the i3 prioritizes lightweight materials for efficiency, the Soul EV focuses on robust construction and family-friendly proportions. Dimensions highlight the differences: the i3’s 157.9-inch length and 101.2-inch wheelbase make it nimbler, but the Soul’s extra space shines for passengers and cargo.

Powertrain and Performance: Acceleration and Handling

Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the direct electric torque in both models. The BMW i3 BEV 94 Ah packs a 125 kW (168 hp) permanent magnet synchronous motor with 184 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 93 mph. Its rear-wheel-drive setup delivers sharp handling, especially in urban twists.

The Kia Soul EV Long Range counters with a stronger 150 kW (201 hp) front-wheel-drive motor producing 291 lb-ft of torque, hitting 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds and reaching 104 mph. Though slightly slower off the line, its extra power provides confident highway merging. Real-world tests confirm the i3’s quicker sprint, clocking 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds versus the Soul’s 10.7 seconds in earlier models, though newer Souls close the gap.

The i3’s low center of gravity and RWD dynamics make it feel sportier, while the Soul EV’s FWD offers predictable traction in varied weather.

Battery, Range, and Efficiency: Miles Per Charge

Range is a critical factor for EV buyers. The BMW i3’s 33.2 kWh nominal (27.2 kWh usable) battery delivers an EPA range of 114 miles, WLTP around 160-180 miles in some configs, and real-world GCC estimates of 124 miles. Its efficiency stands out at 4.56 mi/kWh or 21.9 kWh/100 mi, thanks to lightweight design.

The Kia Soul EV Long Range ups the ante with a 67.5 kWh nominal (64 kWh usable) pack, boasting 243 miles EPA, 281 miles WLTP, and 235 miles GCC. However, it’s less efficient at 3.67 mi/kWh or 27.2 kWh/100 mi due to higher weight. Earlier Souls managed 132 miles claimed, but updates significantly improved this.

In mixed driving, the i3 edges efficiency, but the Soul’s larger battery wins for longer trips. Both support home charging to 80% in 7-8 hours via 7.4 kW AC, with the Soul compatible with free units like British Gas.

Charging Capabilities: Speed and Convenience

Fast charging differentiates daily usability. The i3 supports 50 kW DC for 80% in about 30 minutes, using CCS Type 1 in the US/EU. The Soul EV handles 77 kW DC (CCS Type 2), potentially quicker for longer stops.

• AC Max: i3 at 7.4 kW, Soul at 7.2 kW – similar overnight times.
• DC Max: Soul’s 77 kW vs i3’s 50 kW for rapid top-ups.
• Wallbox: i3 needs BMW’s £315 unit; Soul pairs with free options.

Rapid chargers make both viable for road trips, though infrastructure limits full potential.

Interior Comfort and Practicality: Space for Daily Life

Seating four in the i3 or five in the Soul, both prioritize comfort. The i3’s cloth seats and 4-speaker system feel premium, with LED lamps standard. Minimalist cabin uses sustainable materials.

The Soul EV offers cloth seats, 6-speaker audio, and halogen lamps, plus more cargo: 11.1 cu ft trunk (47.3 max) vs i3’s 9.2 (38.8 max). Longer wheelbase aids rear legroom.

Infotainment is comparable: both have touchscreens, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, but i3 adds unique iDrive quirks.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Protection on the Road

Safety suites vary. Both include brake assist, stability control, and airbags. Soul EV standards automatic braking, backup camera, and traction control; i3 adds optional blind-spot but lacks some standards like lane keep.

• Soul: Forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic standard.
• i3: Parking sensors optional, tire pressure monitoring standard.

Neither is a safety leader by today’s standards, but basics cover urban needs.

Pricing and Value: Cost of Ownership

Affordability favors the Kia. New Soul EV started around $38,000 (2016), now used under $20,000; i3 MSRP was $45,445. Post-grant, early Soul was £24,995 vs i3’s premium tag.

Used i3s fetch $8,989+, reflecting desirability. Lower running costs (no fuel) benefit both, with i3’s efficiency saving more on electricity.

Soul’s longer warranty adds value.

Real-World Driving Experience: Tests and Impressions

Track tests show i3’s peppy acceleration embarrassing pricier cars, while Soul feels brisk for commutes. Videos and forums note i3’s superior mileage (125+ miles) in some runs. Soul’s roomier feel suits families.

Pros and Cons: Quick Comparison

• BMW i3 Pros: Efficiency, handling, premium build, lightweight.
• BMW i3 Cons: Shorter range, higher price, less space.
• Kia Soul EV Pros: Longer range, more power, space, value.
• Kia Soul EV Cons: Heavier, less efficient, basic interior.

Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the BMW i3 for style, fun driving, and efficiency in short urban runs. Opt for Kia Soul EV if you need range, space, and affordability for daily family use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which has better range: Kia Soul EV or BMW i3?

The Kia Soul EV Long Range offers up to 243 miles EPA vs i3’s 114 miles.

Is the BMW i3 faster than the Kia Soul EV?

Yes, i3 hits 0-60 in 7.2s vs 7.6s, with sportier handling.

How long to charge each EV?

Both take 7-8 hours for 80% on AC; DC rapid: 30 mins for i3, faster for Soul.

Which is cheaper to buy?

Kia Soul EV starts lower at ~$22k vs i3’s $45k MSRP.

Can they seat five?

Soul EV yes; i3 seats four.