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Honda Ridgeline vs Kia Soul GT-Line comparison and differences

Honda Ridgeline vs. Kia Soul GT-Line: A Comprehensive Comparison

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When choosing between a Honda Ridgeline and a Kia Soul GT-Line, potential buyers must consider factors such as performance, features, practicality, and cost. These vehicles cater to different audiences: the Ridgeline is a versatile mid-size pickup truck, while the Soul GT-Line is a sporty subcompact SUV. Let’s break down the differences to help you make the best decision.

Performance & Engine Power

Honda Ridgeline

  • Engine: 3.5L V6
  • Horsepower: 280 HP
  • Torque: 262 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 9-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: AWD standard
  • Fuel Economy: ~18 MPG city / 24 MPG highway
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs

The Ridgeline is a power-utility vehicle with a smooth ride thanks to unibody construction and independent rear suspension. It is a strong accelerative and good towing machine that is suitable for adventure enthusiasts.

Kia Soul GT-Line

  • Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 201 HP
  • Torque: 195 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
  • Drivetrain: FWD only
  • Fuel Economy: ~27 MPG city / 32 MPG highway
  • Towing Capacity: Not ratedfor towing

The Kia Soul GT-Line is a bit of an urban commuter, more with the turbocharged peppy engine and really nice fun handling with decent fuel economy, but lacks AWD and towing capacity.

Interior & Comfort

Honda Ridgeline

  • Seating for five
  • Ample interior with premium materials
  • 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Tri-zone automatic climate control
  • Under-seat storage in the rear
  • Leather upholstery on higher trims

The Ridgeline is a smooth ride with SUV-like refinement. It is very well-equipped with soft-touch materials and practical storage solutions, so it’s perfect for road trips and family adventure

Kia Soul GT-Line

  • Seating for five
  • Ample interior with premium materials
  • 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Tri-zone automatic climate control
  • Under-seat storage in the rear
  • Leather upholstery on higher trims

The Ridgeline is a smooth ride with SUV-like refinement. It is very well-equipped with soft-touch materials and practical storage solutions, so it’s perfect for road trips and family adventure

Technology & Safety

Honda Ridgeline

  • Kia Drive Wise safety suite (forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring)
  • Smart key with push-button start
  • Heads-up display available
  • Bose premium audio system
  • Wireless smartphone charging

Both vehicles have a good amount of advanced safety tech, although the Ridgeline has more driver-assist features standard.

Kia Soul GT-Line

  • Kia Drive Wise safety suite (forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring)
  • Smart key with push-button start
  • Heads-up display available
  • Bose premium audio system
  • Wireless smartphone charging

Both vehicles are well-equipped with advanced safety technology, though the Ridgeline offers more driver-assist features standard.

Cargo & Utility

Honda Ridgeline

  • 33.9 cu. ft. of truck bed cargo capacity
  • Lockable in-bed trunk featuring a drain plug
  • Dual-action tailgate (swings open and folds down)
  • 5,000-lb towing capacity

Kia Soul GT-Line

  • 24.2 cu. ft. cargo space behind rear seats
  • 62.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded
  • Compact but practical for groceries and city use.

The Ridgeline wins hands down in utility, due to a truck bed, towing capacity, and other unique features such as the in-bed trunk. The Kia Soul GT-Line offers respectable cargo room but is more suited for city living.

Pricing & Value

Honda Ridgeline

Starts around $40,000

Kia Soul GT-Line

Starts around $24,000

Pros & Cons

Honda Ridgeline

✅ Powerful V6 engine with AWD standard

✅ Large cargo capacity with innovative features

✅ Comfortable, spacious cabin

❌ Higher price point

❌ Lower fuel efficiency

Kia Soul GT-Line

✅ Affordable and stylish

✅ Sporty turbocharged engine

✅ Great fuel economy

❌ No AWD option

❌ Limited cargo and towing capacity

Conclusion

The Honda Ridgeline and Kia Soul GT-Line cater to vastly different audiences. If you need a truck with power, towing capability, and cargo versatility, the Ridgeline is the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a stylish, budget-friendly, and fuel-efficient city vehicle, the Soul GT-Line is an excellent pick. Ultimately, your decision should depend on your lifestyle, driving needs, and budget.

FAQs

Which is better for off-roading, the Ridgeline or the Soul GT-Line?
The Ridgeline is better suited for light off-roading due to its AWD and ground clearance, while the Soul GT-Line is designed for city driving.
It can accommodate small families, but it lacks the spaciousness and utility of larger SUVs.
Both have strong tech features, but the Ridgeline has more premium offerings like a truck bed audio system and standard driver-assist tech.
No, the Kia Soul GT-Line is not rated for towing, unlike the Ridgeline, which can tow up to 5,000 lbs.
The Honda Ridgeline generally has better resale value due to its durability and demand in the used market.