Kia Soul vs Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen
The Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen is more fuel-efficient at 32 MPG combined, against 26 MPG for the Kia Soul. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Kia Soul | Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,237 | 46 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Suspension |
| Crashes and fires | 52 and 110 | 5 and 0 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 85,000 miles | 77,000 miles |
| Recalls | 5 | 1 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 32 MPG |
| City and highway | 24 and 30 | 29 and 39 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $3,000 |
| NHTSA overall safety | Not rated |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,237 complaints for the Kia Soul and 46 for the Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen. 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: 5 for the Kia Soul, 1 for the Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen.