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Chevrolet Malibu vs Kia Soul - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (163 HP vs 147 HP), trunk space and price (25,800 $ vs 20,500 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Chevrolet Malibu or Kia Soul?

Chevrolet Malibu vs Kia Soul: Key differences

Chevrolet Malibu

  • only slightly more power

Kia Soul

  • visibly cheaper
  • barely lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Malibu

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Kia Soul is visibly cheaper – starting at 20,500 $ , while the Chevrolet Malibu costs 25,800 $ . That’s a price difference of around 5,310 $.

Soul

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Chevrolet Malibu offers only slightly more power – delivering 163 HP compared to 147 HP. That’s roughly 16 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Chevrolet Malibu delivers clearly more torque with 184 lb-ft compared to 132 lb-ft. That’s about 52 lb-ft more.

Malibu

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Kia Soul is barely lighter – 2,888 lbs compared to 3,135 lbs. The difference is around 247 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Chevrolet Malibu has only a minor advantage in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $25,800
Malibu

Chevrolet Malibu

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 163 HP
Chevrolet Malibu
Kia Soul

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

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General

View detailed analysis

Chevrolet Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu is a calm, comfortable commuter that nails the basics with a smooth ride, a spacious cabin, and grown-up styling. It won’t shout about thrills, but it delivers easygoing value, intuitive tech, and an overall polish that makes everyday driving feel a bit more first-class.

details

Kia Soul

The Kia Soul pairs quirky-cool styling with a surprisingly airy cabin, making city commutes easy and weekend hauls more practical than you’d expect. It isn’t pretending to be an off-road bruiser, but with clever interior space, user-friendly tech, and a cheerful demeanor, it’s a smart pick for drivers who value personality and everyday convenience.

details
Chevrolet Malibu
Kia Soul

Costs and Consumption

Price
25,800 - 31,500 $
Price
20,500 - 24,800 $
FuelEconomy City
-
FuelEconomy City
27 - 29 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
-
FuelEconomy Hwy
33 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
15.8 gal
Fuel tank capacity
14.3 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,135 - 3,223 lbs
Curb weight
2,888 - 2,998 lbs
Trunk Volume
15.7 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
194.2 in.
Length
165.2 in.
Width
73 in.
Width
70.9 in.
Height
57 in.
Height
63 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Power HP
163 HP
Power HP
147 HP
Torque
184 lb-ft
Torque
132 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Chevrolet
Brand
Kia
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.