2016 Hyundai Sonata vs 2018 Kia Soul
Reliability Side-by-Side
2016
Hyundai Sonata
Grade C+
A value-packed sedan with known powertrain vulnerabilities that demand a proactive owner.
2018
Kia Soul
Grade B+
A quirky and practical compact that delivers solid reliability, provided you understand its specific powertrain considerations.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2018 Kia Soul
Score 85/100 vs 78/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2018 Kia Soul
low risk
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2018 Kia Soul
$400-600
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2016 Hyundai Sonata | 2018 Kia Soul★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $450-650 | $400-600 |
| Moderate Repairs | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., suspension overhaul, transmission valve body) | $500-1,500 occasionally |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 25 / 35 | 25 / 30 |
| MSRP (New) | $21,750 | $16,200 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Printed Owner's Guidebooks · $29.99 each · free US shipping
2016 Hyundai Sonata
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
2018 Kia Soul
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
1-3" Lift Upper Control Arms for 2004-2026 Nissan and 2018-2026 Dongfeng KSP Performance
3" Front and 3" Rear Full Leveling Lift Kits for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK with shock extenders
4" Downpipe-Back DPF Delete Race Pipe for 2011-2019 Ford 6.7L Powerstroke Cab & Chassis
Biggest Risks on Each
2016 Hyundai Sonata
Engine (2.4L GDI & 2.0L Turbo)
60,000-120,000 mi
Transmission (6-speed Automatic)
70,000-110,000 mi
Electrical/Sensors
40,000-90,000 mi
2018 Kia Soul
Engine (GDI Specific)
60,000-100,000 mi
Transmission (1.6L Turbo DCT)
40,000-80,000 mi
Electrical System (Minor Glitches)
30,000-70,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
The 2016 Hyundai Sonata and 2018 Kia Soul represent two distinct approaches to practical, affordable transportation, yet they often find themselves in cross-shopping considerations on the used market due to similar price points and a shared brand heritage. While the Sonata is a traditional mid-size sedan, the Soul is a compact crossover or tall hatchback, appealing to buyers looking for either spacious comfort or quirky utility. Key decision factors often revolve around cargo flexibility, driving dynamics, overall passenger space, and exterior styling preferences. Buyers prioritizing a classic sedan feel with strong highway manners would lean towards the Sonata, while those needing urban agility, a higher driving position, and maximum cargo versatility might prefer the Soul. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2016 Hyundai Sonata: 1. Engine Issues (Theta II GDI Engines): Certain 2.4L and 2.0T GDI engines, particularly from this generation, have been subject to recalls and class-action lawsuits related to connecting rod bearing failures, excessive oil consumption, and engine knocking, sometimes leading to complete engine seizure. Hyundai has offered extended warranties on many of these engines, but it remains a significant concern for potential owners. Affected mileages vary, but issues often surface around 60,000-120,000 miles. 2. Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Failure: Some owners have reported issues with the EPS system, including a complete loss of power steering assist or a clunking noise from the steering column, often traced to a failing steering coupling. 3. Brake Light Switch Failure: A common, albeit minor, issue where the brake light switch can fail, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and potentially causing cruise control or automatic shifter interlock problems. 2018 Kia Soul: 1. Engine Concerns: While less prevalent than the earlier Hyundai Theta II issues, some 2018 Soul owners, particularly with the 1.6L and 2.0L GDI engines, have reported instances of excessive oil consumption and rare cases of engine knocking, though generally not as severe or widespread as the earlier Hyundai GDI engine problems. 2. TPMS Sensor Malfunctions: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors can sometimes fail prematurely, leading to warning lights on the dashboard even when tire pressures are correct. 3. HVAC Fan Motor Noise: Some owners have reported unusual noises coming from the climate control fan motor, particularly at lower fan speeds, which may indicate a failing motor or an obstruction.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When considering these vehicles on the used market, their initial new MSRP difference significantly impacts their current value. The 2016 Sonata, being a more expensive car new, is typically found in the $10,000 to $15,000 range, depending heavily on trim, mileage, and condition. The 2018 Kia Soul, despite being two years newer, can sometimes be found for a similar price or slightly higher, typically between $12,000 and $18,000, reflecting its strong resale value for its class and newer age. Insurance costs for both vehicles are generally moderate. The Soul, being a compact, may have slightly lower premiums than the mid-size Sonata, but this can vary based on trim, engine, and individual driving history. Maintenance costs are largely similar for both, as they share common platforms and many components within the Hyundai-Kia family, meaning parts are readily available and labor costs are typically affordable at independent shops. Resale value for the Kia Soul has historically been strong within its segment, often holding its value better than many compact cars. The Sonata's resale value is average for a mid-size sedan, but depreciation will have slowed considerably by this age. The potential for costly engine issues on the Sonata could negatively impact its long-term value and ownership costs if not properly addressed or if an extended warranty is not transferable.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: The 2016 Hyundai Sonata. Its spacious rear seat provides ample room for car seats and growing children, and its comfortable, composed ride is ideal for longer road trips. The larger trunk is also practical for luggage and strollers. Best for commuters: This depends on the commute. For a city-dweller who needs to navigate tight streets and park easily, the 2018 Kia Soul (especially with the 2.0L or 1.6T engine) is an excellent choice due to its nimble size and higher driving position. For those with longer highway commutes, the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Eco with its 1.6T engine offers superb fuel economy, while the standard 2.4L provides a more relaxed, stable ride. Best for enthusiasts: Neither vehicle is designed as a pure enthusiast car. However, if pushed, the 2016 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T offers genuinely strong acceleration and a more refined, if not sporty, driving dynamic. The 2018 Kia Soul 1.6T Exclaim offers a surprisingly peppy engine in a light, compact package, which can be fun around town, but its handling isn't built for track days. Best value overall: The 2018 Kia Soul offers compelling value, particularly due to its younger age, superior cargo flexibility, and historically strong resale value for its segment. While the 2016 Sonata offers a more sophisticated sedan experience, the potential for significant engine repair costs on certain Sonata engines means the Soul likely presents a lower long-term risk and less deferred maintenance given its newer year.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2016 Hyundai Sonata
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