Soul I (AM) vs Astra J: which is better?
Kia Soul I (AM) (2008–2013) vs Opel Astra J (2009–2017): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Soul I (AM)
Opel Astra JSpecifications
| Kia Soul I (AM) | Opel Astra J | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2008–2013 | 2009–2017 |
| Body | hatchback | hatchback |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 124 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque, up to | 156 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 105 mm | 4 419 mm |
| Width | 1 785 mm | 1 814 mm |
| Height | 1 610 mm | 1 510 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 550 mm | 2 685 mm |
| Fuel tank | 48 L | 56 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Soul I (AM)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 engine (G4FC, G4FG): catalytic converter breakdown and debris entering the cylinders — scoring
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 (G4FC, G4FG)): catalytic converter breakdown with debris entering the cylinders — scoring; timing chain stretch after 150k km; knocking when worn (valves adjusted with shims).
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Opel Astra J
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- Soul I (AM) — if you care more about: power, torque.
- Astra J — if you care more about: wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Soul I (AM) or Astra J?
Soul I (AM): up to 124 hp, Astra J: up to 115 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Soul I (AM) — about 13 675 ₸, Astra J — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.