On January 30, a revamped Kia Philippines launched the Soluto subcompact sedan. With a touchscreen infotainment system as standard, an extremely affordable asking price, and a shot at being a real market success story, the Soluto naturally drew tons of attention.
And then came Hyundai to steal the Soluto’s thunder.
Barely a day later, Hyundai Asia Resources Inc., unveiled its own new subcompact-sedan offering, the Reina. And to make things more interesting, this one is even more affordable than the Soluto.
Just like that, it appears a new rivalry has been born. So what is it exactly that sets these vehicles apart from one another? As it turns out, very little.
Both the Soluto and the Reina pack a 1.4-liter engine capable of an identical 94hp and 132Nm of torque. Both are roughly the same size, too, and by the looks of it, they offer the same amount of interior space. And both have their sights set on grabbing a slice of the local subcompact-sedan pie.
Just how similar are these two vehicles? Check out the spec-filled table below and see for yourself. Also, answer the poll below and let us know which of the two cars you think offers better bang for the buck.
Kia Soluto 1.4 EX AT |
Hyundai Reina 1.4 GL AT |
|
| Price (Philippine Peso) | 735,000 | 648,000 |
| Drive | FWD | FWD |
| Seating capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Engine | 1.4-liter gasoline | 1.4-liter gasoline |
| Power | 94hp @ 6,000rpm | 94hp @ 6,000rpm |
| Torque | 132Nm @ 4,000rpm | 132Nm @ 4,000rpm |
| Fuel tank capacity (liters) | 43 | 43 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Brakes (front/rear) | Disc/drum | Disc/drum |
| Front suspension | MacPherson strut with H-type sub-frame | MacPherson strut with stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | V-beam coupled torsion beam axle | Coupled torsion beam axle |
| Wheels | 14-inch alloys | 14-inch steel |
| Tires | 170/70 R14 | 5.0J x 14" |
| Seats | Leatherette | Fabric |
| Audio system | 7-inch touchscreen, six speakers | 1-DIN radio |
| Climate control | Manual | Manual |
| Airbags | Driver and passenger | Driver and passenger |
| Dimensions (mm) | 4,300 x 1,700 x 1,460 | 4,300 x 1,705 x 1,460 |
| Ground clearance (mm) | 150 | 150 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,570 | 2,570 |
