Kia Soluto vs. the competition

The sedan market in the Philippines is highly competitive — with several strong players vying for the attention of consumers. One of the best choices for those looking for a budget-friendly new car is the Kia Soluto.

The Soluto features a traditional sedan look and is powered by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 93 horsepower (hp) and 132 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. The engine is mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, depending on the variant.

Available in three variants, the Soluto is priced from P780,000-P865,000.

Since the sedan segment is filled with a range of options, the Soluto still faces tough competition despite its impressive features. Let us take a look at the Soluto's main competitors and see how it can match up against them.

Mitsubishi Mirage G4

With its compact size and fuel efficiency, the Mitsubishi Mirage G4 is ideal for those who prioritize practicality. It also offers a comfortable cabin space and a smooth driving experience.

Powering the Mirage G4 is a 1.2-liter gasoline engine that churns out 76.4 hp and 100 Nm of torque, making it less powerful than the Soluto but more economical.

Just like the Soluto, the Mirage G4 offers a simple, no-frills approach. Both sedans focus on delivering a practical and cost-effective driving experience.

When it comes to pricing, the Mirage G4 is placed within the same range as the Soluto, costing P769,000-P929,000.

Suzuki Dzire

The Suzuki Dzire is another contender in the local sedan market that poses a challenge to the Soluto. With its stylish design and low starting price, the Dzire has caught the attention of many car buyers.

With a decent amount of legroom and headroom, the Dzire offers a comfortable cabin space along, making it suitable for small families or young professionals.

Under the hood of the Dzire is a 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out up to 81 hp and 113 Nm of torque, making it less powerful than the Soluto. The Dzire comes in five-speed manual and Auto Gear Shift variants.

The Dzire and the Soluto provide the same level of comfort and convenience, however, the Suzuki sedan may edge out Kia’s contender in terms of fuel efficiency, as well as affordability since it retails for just P609,000-P819,000.

Changan Alsvin

Another cheaper alternative to the Soluto is the Changan Alsvin, which features sleek design and modern aesthetics and offers a comfortable travel experience for both driver and passengers.

There are two powertrain options for the Alsvin: a 1.4-liter engine paired to a five-speed manual transmission, and a 1.5-liter engine mated to a five-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The 1.4-liter engine churns out 99 hp and 135 Nm of torque, while the 1.5-liter produces 105 hp and 145 Nm of pulling power. Both engines deliver higher output than that of the Soluto.

Pricing for the Alsvin ranges from only P654,000-P743,000.

Verdict

The Kia Soluto faces tough competition in the local sedan market from established players such as Mitsubishi Mirage G4, Suzuki Dzire, and Changan Alsvin. Each competitor brings its own unique strengths and features to the table, making the choice a challenging one for potential buyers. Choosing the right sedan depends on your personal preferences, budget, and specific requirements.

Photos from Kia Philippines, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation, Suzuki Philippines, and Changan Philippines

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