Subcompact cars these days have been stepping up the game, no longer being vehicles that most people would settle for, but have become cars that some actually want to own. These days, all segments of the car industry have been stepping up their game when it comes to interior quality and layout, making modern cabins a far cry from those found in economy cars many years ago. The 2019 Kia Soluto shows that value for money doesn’t necessarily mean cheap plastics and finish. Let’s get into the details.
Related: 2019 Kia Soluto Review
Above expectations
At this price range, you can’t expect the best materials and high-end finishes, but the Kia Soluto dials up the cabin by being a little bit more creative than the segment. When compared to its sister car, the Hyundai Reina, the Kia Soluto foregoes the standard horizontal layout for a more rounded dashboard. Yes, plastic is everywhere here, but on the dashboard it’s a more textured and matte finish, doing away with the cheap glossiness we find in other cars. It ties in well with the silver accents outlining the aircon vents and center infotainment stack. There is a piano black finish at the base of the shifter, and, thankfully, that’s the only part that will attract fingerprints.
The side aircon vents have a nifty 360 degree design, and are simple to use and aim, and the rest of the buttons and dials are well-placed and easy to use. I am not a fan of the window controls being below the aircon controls, but it is an interesting design decision. If you do go for the top EX trim, you get a nice leather steering wheel that feels hefty and above this car’s price range. There are a good number of storage areas for your belongings, such as behind the shifter, the door pockets, and center portion in between the seats. There’s a single USB port and a 12 volt socket that’s easily reachable, too.
The seats are a nice beige or off-white leatherette and are comfortable enough for long drives. There’s a lot of adjustability in the driver’s seat, and the steering wheel is tilting and telescoping too, allowing anyone to find a good driving position. The seats, however, do get hot when parked under direct sunlight.
The Kia Soluto’s cabin is big enough for a six footer to drive and get comfortable in the back seat. Average sized adults will have no problem fitting here, but the center passenger might feel a bit cramped. Thankfully, the lack of a transmission tunnel makes legroom very good. Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) suppression is decent and the cabin keeps engine and road noise at a decent level; more refined than expected.
Practical space
The Kia Soluto’s trunk has a great 475 liter capacity that could fit all types of luggage, groceries, and even strollers or golf bags with space to spare. The rear seats do not fold down, however, so you’ll have to settle for this configuration. The load lip is slightly high, but that depth allows for more creative use of the space provided. A light is also provided for some illumination at night, and a rear spare tire with tools and a jack lies underneath the top cover.
Unfortunately, a key is needed to open the trunk from the outside – integrating a hidden button would’ve worked; maybe the Kia badge? But you can open it up from a lever on the driver’s side.
Specifications
Engine
1.4 LFuel Type
GasolinePerformance
94 hp @ 6,000 rpmTransmission
Automatic-
Summary
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Name Kia Soluto 1.4 EX AT Body Type Sedan Price ₱865,000 Transmission Category Automatic -
Engine
-
Engine Size 1.4 L Displacement 1,368 cc Number of Cylinders 4 Number of Valves 16 Transmission Type 4-Speed Automatic Transmission -
Performance
-
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive Max Output (hp) 94 hp @ 6,000 rpm Max Torque (nm) 132 Nm @ 4,000 rpm *estimated -
Economy & Environment
-
Fuel Type Gasoline Emissions Standard Euro 4 Fuel Capacity 43.0 L Combined Fuel Consumption 16.0 km/L *estimated -
Dimensions
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Length 4,300 mm Width 1,700 mm Height 1,460 mm Wheelbase 2,570 mm Turning Circle 10 m Ground Clearance 150 mm Trunk Capacity 475 L Number of Doors 4 Number of Seats 5 -
Safety & Security
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Driver's Airbag Front Passenger's Airbag Side Airbags Curtain Airbags Knee Airbag Auto Brake System Electronic Brake Distribution Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Anti-lock Braking System
Immobilizer Security Alarm Stability Control Electronic Door Locks Speed Sensing Door Locks ISOFIX Lane Departure Warning System Blind-Spot Detection System -
Features
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Cruise Control Front Parking Sensors Rear Parking Sensors Leather Upholstery Push Start Button Wheel Size 14 in Wheels Metal Type Alloy Airconditioning System Manual Air-Conditioning Entertainment System 7” Touchscreen; AM/FM Radio, MP3 with USB and Aux-in ports Connectivity Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Voice Control Navigation Ready Warranty 5 years (160,000 kms) Keyless Entry Roof Rack Sunroof Electric Adjustable Seats Power Steering Power Windows Power Outlet Steering Wheel Audio Control -
Technology
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Active Park Assist Hill Start Assist AWD Modes n/a Tire Pressure Monitoring Heads-up Display Power Liftgate Start-stop System
Colors
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