If there’s a hot match-up right now, it’s got to be the recently-launched Kia Soluto and the Hyundai Reina – two South Korean subcompact sedans that sit on the same platform. Although these two use a common chassis, they seem to be on a war in the Philippine market right now.
Let’s rewind time a little bit. Last January, Kia Philippines relaunches four of its models along with an unfamiliar nameplate. The Soluto, a small sedan with a competitive price tag, equipped with tons of onboard features. However, only a day after its physical launch, Hyundai Philippines digitally launched a same-size sedan named Reina, sparking a little war in the local subcompact sedan segment. Both cars are manufactured in China, both have the same engine, same power, but what’s the deal with these two really? Let’s find out.
Exterior side-by-side comparison
From the looks of both cars, we can say that both cars embody the current design language of their respective companies. The Soluto stands proudly bearing Kia’s ‘tiger-nose grille,’ as well as a wide, one-piece lower intake that houses the fog lamps. The Reina, on the other hand, boasts a mini ‘cascading grille,’ a signature design of Hyundai following the Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. It’s got a strip of lower intake and a couple of side air vents for that ‘sporty’ appeal.
In terms of dimensions, the Kia Soluto and Hyundai Reina are almost the same, too – except the fact that the Soluto is narrower by 5mm in overall width.
Cabin-to-cabin comparison
No matter how heavy the similarities are when it comes to some of their major technical specifications, the difference in prices should mean that there’s got to be a few distinctions – or else we wouldn’t be writing this article. Alas, there is and it’s inside the cabin. No, we’re not talking about the different designs of the steering wheels.
We’re referring to the main head units used by the two models. Inside the Soluto is a seven-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Meanwhile, the Reina has it basic – a 1-DIN AM and FM radio sitting pretty at the center of the dashboard. Apart from that, the Soluto comes with ISOFIX anchors, while the Reina seems to lack the special child seat tethers based on its spec sheet.
Similar engine and similar power output
If we put these two South Korean subcompact sedans on AutoDeal’s comparison tool, you’d find that the ‘Engine’ section is a complete copy of each other. The Kia Soluto and Hyundai Reina carry same-sized engines, which are at 1.4 liters. Both have four cylinders and are paired to either a 4-speed automatic transmission or 5-speed manual. That gives away the fact that they spur out the same power output at 94 hp and 132 Nm of torque.
So, basically, the new players in the local subcompact sedan segment are just different-looking cars with tons of similarities. The only thing that will matter is if you prefer a touchscreen entertainment system and ISOFIX anchors with the price tag as the trade off. In the end, it is your preference that matters.
The base Hyundai Reina sells for P598,000 while the Kia Soluto starts at P625,000.
Latest Features
-
Five remarkable features of the Mazda CX-90 we love / Featured Article
These five features of the Mazda CX-90 are sure to give you an idea of how in-depth Mazda went to ensure their flagship crossover stands out.
-
Why the GAC M6 Pro is perfect for those who want big space in a compact package / Featured Article
The GAC M6 Pro is the smart choice for families who want space, comfort, and practicality without the bulk of a big van.
-
25 Cheapest cars in the Philippines / Featured Article
Here are the most affordable passenger cars currently available in the Philippines.
Popular Articles
-
Cheapest cars under P700,000 in the Philippines
Jerome Tresvalles · Sep 02, 2024
-
First car or next car, the Ford EcoSport is a tough package to beat
Jun 18, 2021
-
Car Maintenance checklist and guide – here’s everything you need to know
Earl Lee · Jan 12, 2021
-
Most fuel efficient family cars in the Philippines
Bryan Aaron Rivera · Nov 27, 2020
-
2021 Geely Okavango — Everything you need to know
Joey Deriquito · Nov 19, 2020
-
Family cars in the Philippines with the biggest trunks
Sep 20, 2023
-
Head to head: Toyota Rush vs. Suzuki XL7
Joey Deriquito · Oct 28, 2020
-
Why oil changes are important for your car
Earl Lee · Nov 10, 2020
-
2021 Kia Stonic — What you need to know about it
Joey Deriquito · Oct 16, 2020
-
Top 7 tips for buying a used car in the Philippines
Joey Deriquito · Nov 26, 2020