Soul III (SK3) vs Sandero Stepway II: which is better?
Kia Soul III (SK3) (2019–present) vs Renault Sandero Stepway II (2014–2022): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Soul III (SK3)
Renault Sandero Stepway IISpecifications
| Kia Soul III (SK3) | Renault Sandero Stepway II | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2019–present | 2014–2022 |
| Body | hatchback | hatchback |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 | 1.6 16V |
| Power, up to | 150 hp | 113 hp |
| Torque, up to | 192 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 195 mm | 4 080 mm |
| Width | 1 800 mm | 1 757 mm |
| Height | 1 600 mm | 1 618 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 600 mm | 2 589 mm |
| Ground clearance | — | 195 mm |
| Fuel tank | 50 L | 50 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Soul III (SK3)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 150 hp
- Currently in production — can be bought new
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Nu 2.0 engine (G4NA, G4NB): cylinder scoring
- Hyundai IVT CVT gearbox: some complaints of jerking when pulling away
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Nu 2.0 (G4NA, G4NB)): cylinder scoring; increased oil consumption; catalytic converter debris.
Gearbox (Hyundai IVT CVT): the gearbox is relatively new, statistics are being gathered; there are complaints about jerks when pulling away.
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 III (SK3) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase.
- Sandero Stepway II — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
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 III (SK3) or Sandero Stepway II?
Soul III (SK3): up to 150 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 III (SK3) — about 16 475 ₸, 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.