Head to Head

In this Head-to-Head, it's a feature-to-feature comparison between two huge subcompact sedan nameplates. One of them has been around for ages and has captured the hearts of so many, while the other has just made a major comeback. We're talking about the latest generation Toyota Vios and Kia Soluto. Watch it here.

Our first stop is our featured cars' respective powertrains.

Under the hood of the Vios is a 1.3-liter four-cylinder dual-VVT-i gasoline engine that gives out 98 ps and 123 Nm of torque. These generous engine figures are coupled with a Continuously Variable Transmission.

On the other hand, the Soluto is powered with a 1.4-liter, naturally aspirated, dual-CVVT gasoline engine that is capable of putting out 95 ps and 132 Nm of torque. Our variant right here is mated to a 4-speed automatic that transfers all power to front wheels.

The suspension of the Soluto is comprised of an Independent MacPherson Strut, H-type sub-frame at the front, and V-Beam Coupled Torsion Beam Axle at the rear. The Soluto is clearly a small sedan, but the drive is comfortable with minimal vibrations-that's all thanks to this suspension set up.

The suspension of the Vios is comprised of MacPherson with Coil Spring at the front and Torsion Axle Beam with Coil Spring at the rear. Meanwhile, the suspension of the Soluto uses an Independent MacPherson Strut, H-type sub-frame at the front, and V-Beam Coupled Torsion Beam Axle at the rear. Both the Vios and the Soluto are small sedans, but their respective suspension setups ensure that both of them face rough roads with minimal vibrations.

Let's check out the exteriors of the Vios and the Soluto.

When talking about the design of the Vios, it's evident that the latest generation model has been redesigned. Its front fascia is defined by this split grille that is framed by four-beam halogen headlights in place of LEDs. On its sides, strong character lines are present, giving more definition to the body of the Vios. Over at the back, the vertical, bulb-type taillights mimic those of the other Toyota models. Moreover, the Vios runs on the road with15-inch alloy wheels.

Meanwhile, the styling of the latest generation Soluto, in a way, looks similar to other Kia models. The same with the Vios, the Soluto received a redesign, now bearing Kia's new design language even. The front fascia boasts projector fog lamps and a grille that looks rugged, and at the rear, there's not much going on as well, aside from it has combination lamps. The 14-inch alloy wheels also add character to the Soluto.

Exterior-wise, both the Vios and Soluto don't come with extravagant looks. Both are pretty simple and straightforward, although if you're after a more refined styling, the Vios might be what you're looking for.

Let's proceed to the interiors.

Inside the Vios, it's clear that it has been redesigned as well. There's a few changes here and there, but the change in the layout of the dash, although subtle, is the most noticeable. Our variant here gets fabric-upholstered seats, and it is among the few trims that get the leather-wrapped steering wheel, push-button engine start/stop, speed sensing door locks, and automatic climate control, among others. Also, when it comes to space, it's the same with the previous models, although the new redesigned seats offer better support and improved comfort.

When it comes to entertainment, the Vios is equipped with a 7-inch touch screen head unit with Weblink, AUX, and MP3 connectivity. Audio is courtesy of 4 speakers.

Hopping inside the Soluto, it all looks simple and straightforward as well. The dashboard and other areas are covered mostly in hard plastic without looking cheap, while the seats are wrapped in leather. With the ample space inside the Soluto, passengers at the back can be comfortable during long drives. For added convenience, the Soluto comes with Rotary Temperature Control, 360 Rotatable Airducts, cup holders, rear door power windows, and Rear View Monitor with Parking Guidance.

Moreover, the infotainment system of the Soluto features a new 7-inch Touchscreen with AM/FM, MP3 with USB and Aux-In. Sound is enjoyable through the 6-speaker system.

In conclusion with regard to the interiors of the Vios and the Soluto, the latter offers much more space compared to the former. However, the Vios is equipped with more interior features.

For safety and security, both the Vios and the Soluto boast the necessary features. The Vios comes with Toyota's standard features, including multiple airbags, Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, and Anti-Lock Brake System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and Brake Assist, while the Soluto is equipped with Anti-Lock Braking System with Electronic Brake System, dual airbags, alarm and immobilizer among other features.

However, when it comes to safety matters, a lot have pointed out that the Vios is the safest car in its segment.

That was a head-to-head comparison of the Toyota Vios and Kia Soluto-two cars that come close when it comes to their respective features and the way they carry their nameplates in general.