Soul II (PS) vs Sandero Stepway II: which is better?
Kia Soul II (PS) (2013–2019) vs Renault Sandero Stepway II (2014–2022): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Soul II (PS)
Renault Sandero Stepway IISpecifications
| Kia Soul II (PS) | Renault Sandero Stepway II | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2013–2019 | 2014–2022 |
| Body | hatchback | hatchback |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 1.6 16V |
| Power, up to | 124 hp | 113 hp |
| Torque, up to | 152 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 140 mm | 4 080 mm |
| Width | 1 800 mm | 1 757 mm |
| Height | 1 593 mm | 1 618 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 570 mm | 2 589 mm |
| Ground clearance | — | 195 mm |
| Fuel tank | 54 L | 50 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 II (PS)
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.
Renault Sandero Stepway II
Pros
- No data
Cons
- Nissan/Renault HR16DE / H4M (1.6) engine: chain stretch at high mileage
Engine (Nissan/Renault HR16DE / H4M (1.6)): no widespread serious problems; chain stretch at high mileage.
Which one to choose
- Soul II (PS) — if you care more about: power, fuel tank.
- Sandero Stepway II — if you care more about: wheelbase.
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 II (PS) or Sandero Stepway II?
Soul II (PS): up to 124 hp, Sandero Stepway II: up to 113 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Soul II (PS) — about 13 675 ₸, Sandero Stepway II — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.