2020 Kia Soul vs. 2020 Mini Clubman Comparison

The 2020 Kia Soul versus the 2020 Mini Clubman: Two square SUV hatchback alternatives square off. One is practical with a side of sportiness, one is sporty with some practicality.

2020 Kia Soul Starting Price: $18,610 | Price Yours or View Listings Near You

Above Average: Roomy; unique looking; fun to drive

Below Average: All-wheel drive isn’t an option, even in the “off-road inspired” Soul X-Line

Consensus: Cool looks and loads of practicality make the 2020 Kia Soul a legitimate subcompact SUV alternative.

2020 Mini Clubman Starting Price: $31,750 | Price Yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Mini sportiness; long wheelbase makes for a smooth ride; powered swing-out doors help with loading and unloading cargo

Below Average: Base price is higher than even some midsize SUVs; so-so rear-seat comfort; price increases quickly when you add options

Consensus: The 2020 Mini Clubman prioritizes Mini style and sensibility over practicality and value, but this 4-door hatch is loaded with retro charm.

All-new for 2020, the Kia Soul is a great blend of cool attitude and impressive practicality, now with new styling and more features. The hatchback layout creates a huge SUV-like cargo space. The 2020 Kia Soul has a longer wheelbase and stiffer chassis than the previous generation, improving ride quality and reducing noise. The LX model starts at a reasonable $18,610, and the Soul lineup now includes a rugged-looking X-Line model. The base engine performs admirably, thanks to the well-tuned continuously variable automatic transmission. But if you want something sportier – with more power than the Clubman — consider the 201-hp GT-Line Turbo, with a sport-tuned suspension. It’ll still cost thousands less than the Mini. The Kia Soul has a wide range of standard features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 7-inch touch screen, and a fantastic 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

If you want the handling response and sporty fun of a Mini Cooper but need extra space for people and gear, there’s the 2020 Mini Clubman. For 2020, the Clubman received a refresh, with updated styling and powertrain changes. The base 3-cylinder engine and the 6-speed manual transmission were dropped, meaning that the new base engine is a 189-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) – or an 8-speed DCT if you opt for all-wheel drive. This also means that the base model is now the Clubman S, and the base price is significantly higher than it was last year. However, the interior is fairly roomy and the Clubman boasts powered swing-out rear doors. If you are looking for a quick, zippy, stylish way to transport people and some gear but don’t want an SUV, this Mini is an option.

Roomy 4-door hatchbacks with distinctive style.

Advanced safety and driver-assist features for less money; excellent value; smart tech and safety features.

Available all-wheel drive; Mini handling and style; more powerful base engine; fiery John Cooper Works model; rear barn-style doors

The Kia Soul and Mini Clubman are both adept at carrying people and cargo. The Soul prioritizes practicality and the Mini is stylish and sporty above all else. The Mini has a significantly higher base price, but with that extra cost comes more power. However, step up to a Kia Soul GT-Line Turbo, and you benefit from more power than the Clubman S, better fuel economy in the city, more safety and tech features, and more than $3,000 in your pocket. We recommend the Kia Soul. It gives you the choice of going frugal or sporty, but whatever you choose, you will get a hatch that offers tremendous value.

Ready to buy a Kia Soul or Mini Clubman? Shop now for one on sale near you.