Sister companies, Kia and Hyundai, just celebrated big victories as far as the millennial age group is concerned. Both the 2014 Kia Soul and the 2014 Hyundai Veloster were named to the 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000 list put out by Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. The two vehicles boasted a 2-3 finish, with the Veloster taking second and the Soul taking third. Mazda’s MAZDA3 managed to steal the crown from the Veloster, which was ranked first in 2013.
“Last year’s number one on this list, the Veloster is a masterful mix of bold, unique style and famous Hyundai value,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst, Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. “In this case, getting more for your money means an extra door on the passenger’s side.”
Nerad spoke about the Soul as well: “The Kia Soul you see here may look familiar, but it’s been totally redesigned for 2014. Along with a new look, the second-gen Soul offers a higher level of refinement and even more cool features. Practicality has always been a Soul strong point, and remains a key part of the appeal.”
To earn a spot on the list, vehicles must have a KBB “Fair Purchase Price” of $18,000 or less. The Kia Soul boasts a starting MSRP of $14,900; the Hyundai Veloster begins at $17,800.
Winning cars were judge on two criteria: fun-to-drive and fun-to-own.
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