The Kia Soul is a compact crossover that first graced the roads in 2009, and it has been standing out in the crowd ever since. This quirky-looking vehicle is often called a “mini SUV” because it has a high riding height similar to an SUV, yet it has the compact dimensions of a smaller car. Its funky design, roomy interior and versatile cargo space make it appeal to a wide range of drivers, and its affordability makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious car shoppers.
Design
The Kia Soul’s design is what sets it apart from other vehicles on the road. It has a boxy shape with an eye-catching curve that runs along the roofline, almost giving it the appearance of a tall, boxy wagon. The Soul has also been given a few minor aesthetic tweaks over the years, but it has always remained unique. Its most recent redesign for 2020 brought a more modern look to the boxy design, with its sleek grille, sharper lines and more aggressive appearance. Overall, the new Soul’s design is both appealing and functional.
Interior
Inside the cabin, the Kia Soul offers a roomy and comfortable interior with ample head-and legroom. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and the rear seats offer plenty of legroom for adult passengers. The cargo area is also quite impressive, offering ample space for luggage or groceries, thanks to the boxy shape of the car.
The latest-generation Kia Soul also offers a host of impressive features, including a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless phone charging, and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, among others. Safety features on the latest model include basic items like airbags and a rearview camera, as well as more advanced systems such as forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning to mitigate accidents.
Performance
The Kia Soul has a four-cylinder engine that provides sufficient power for city and highway driving. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces up to 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated with either a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. For those who want a bit more power, there is also a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine available, which produces up to 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine comes standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Fuel efficiency is average for this class, with the base engine returning 29 mpg combined (27 city/33 highway) and the turbo engine returning 31 mpg combined (27 city/32 highway) and it is better than some of its competitors like the Honda HR-V and the Mazda CX-3.
Verdict
All in all, the Kia Soul is an excellent choice for those who want a compact crossover that is both fun and practical. Its unique design and eye-catching styling make it a stand-out in a crowded marketplace, and its combination of good fuel economy, ample features and affordability make it a smart buy. The latest model has an MSRP starting at $17,590, making it a great value for the money. Anyone looking for a car that combines style, practicality, and value in one package should definitely check out the latest version of the Kia Soul.