Kia Soul vs Scion XB
The Kia Soul is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 24 MPG for the Scion XB. At EPA assumptions that is about $400 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Kia Soul | Scion XB | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 271 | 61 |
| Most reported problem | Brakes | Air bags |
| Crashes and fires | 43 and 7 | 5 and 3 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 53,000 miles | 65,000 miles |
| Recalls | 3 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 28 MPG | 24 MPG |
| City and highway | 26 and 31 | 22 and 27 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,400 | $2,800 |
| NHTSA overall safety | Not rated |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 271 complaints for the Kia Soul and 61 for the Scion XB. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 3 for the Kia Soul, 5 for the Scion XB.