Overview & Reviews

With its funky styling and spunky four-cylinder power, the compact Kia Soul is aimed at mainstream economy-car shoppers who want something different. Indeed, the boxy Kia hatchback is avant garde in its approach, boasting a swept-back exterior design with sporty angles and a neat cabin filled with distinctive shapes and vibrant colors. It gives Kia an injection of, well, soul to complement its well-earned reputation for competence and value.

Current Kia Soul
Introduced for 2014, the second-generation Kia Soul comes in three trim levels: base, + and !.

The base Soul gets a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 130 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission is standard (including a hill-start assist function), and a six-speed automatic is optional.

Soul+ and ! models have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 164 hp and it comes only with the six-speed automatic. EPA combined fuel economy estimates range from 26-27 mpg, the latter with the optional Eco package.

The base Soul's standard features include 16-inch steel wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an audio system with a CD player, satellite radio and an iPod/USB interface. The Soul+ adds 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and front and rear center armrests. The Soul! features 18-inch wheels, body-colored bumpers, LED daytime running lights, power-folding side mirrors, a power driver seat and the Uvo eServices package (infotainment interface with voice control, Bluetooth audio connectivity, streaming Internet radio capability, a rearview camera and automatic headlights). Option highlights include a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, a navigation system, an upgraded audio system, keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery and heated front and rear seats.

In reviews, we've been impressed with the Soul's interior materials' quality, user-friendly high-tech features and generous passenger and cargo space. Underway, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is satisfyingly quick whether bopping around town or merging onto a highway. The automatic transmission is on point with its well-timed and swift gearchanges. We haven't sampled the smaller engine but assume most buyers would be happier with the equally fuel-efficient but gutsier 2.0-liter mill. The Soul handles curvy roads well, thanks to its well-weighted, precise steering and composed attitude. Unfortunately, the Soul's boxy shape results in excessive wind noise at highway speeds, and the Soul! model has a somewhat rough ride due to its larger wheels and tires.

Used Kia Soul Models
The first-generation Kia Soul was produced from 2010-'13. Trim levels consisted of base, +, ! and Sport.

The base Soul had a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 122 hp; it was available only with a five-speed manual. The upper trims got a 2.0-liter four with 142 hp. It also came with the five-speed manual as standard, but a four-speed automatic was optional.

Standard features on the base Soul included air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, Bluetooth and a four-speaker sound system with satellite radio and an iPod/USB jack. Moving up through the trims brought alloy wheels, premium audio, power-folding sideview mirrors, a sunroof, automatic climate control and a two-tone interior.

For 2012 a number of important improvements took place, notably more engine output, new six-speed transmissions and revised steering. The base Soul's 1.6-liter four made 138 hp and could be paired to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The other Souls' 2.0-liter four cranked out 164 hp. The Soul + had the same transmission choices as the base model, while the Soul ! was automatic only. That year the Soul's styling was slightly updated inside and out and a number of new technology options, such as a navigation system, debuted as well.

In reviews, we noted that the Soul's cabin offered a nice balance between form and function, while the available two-tone houndstooth upholstery gave the Soul more flair than its rivals. Gauges and controls are well-placed and easy to use, even when fitted with high-tech options like the voice-controlled Uvo infotainment system that allows you to control your cell phone, iPod and more with voice commands. A major benefit of the Soul's boxy design is the abundant head- and legroom, even in the backseat.

As with the following generation, the 2.0-liter engine is the one to get, especially since fuel economy is on par with the smaller engine. In terms of handling, the Soul doesn't offer the sort of zippy nature provided by some other small cars, but it isn't a soft snooze-mobile either. The ride quality is pretty agreeable, though models fitted with the admittedly sharp-looking 18-inch alloy wheels can feel harsh over bad pavement.

User Reviews:

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  4 or 5 depending on expectations - 2016 Kia Soul
  By bryan kauffman - August 6 - 12:09 pm

  Was looking for something that could hold a family of three, one still rocking a car seat, and be enjoyable when I rode alone to and from work (plus I love the aesthetics). Got a topped out version of the plus model after considering the Exclaim. The features I wanted while shaving off about $1500/$2000 off the price, though I think if I wanted the additional features the Exclaim is certainly worth looking at. Driving Impression: Engine - meh. Just okay with the 2.0 liter. But, I am fine with that. If they come out with the much discussed turbo model, I think that will sell briskly and make it the alternative to the VW GTI. Doesnt struggle to keep up in traffic or pass. Just doesnt blow your hair back. Braking seems solid. Wind noise is less than I expected considering the shape. Ride feels composed on the highway. Visibility is spectacular. Body roll around corners is average. Interior - Got the leather with ventilated/heated seats, a huge touch screen display with navigation (no service to buy to use it either.....bonus!) Back seat easily fit my kids carseat. Would probably be tight if he was still in an infant seat. Lots of soft touch materials. Odometer display is a bit lackluster. Back seats are comfy for an adult of average height. Nice bonus that the outboard seats are also heated. USB port and 2 120v adapters up front too. Storage - Plenty of cup holders, a nice little cubby space for change and a glasses holder. Armrest storage feels a little insubstantial and doesnt come with any useful trays or anything. Wish you could adjust it a bit. glove box is cavernous. The rear storage cover is great and can be adjusted or removed if needed. Storage being the rear seats is adequate and honestly larger than anticipated considering the size of the vehicle. Storage under the floor cover are a wonderful surprise. Overall: I would probably give it a 4.5 star review if possible. I think, dollar for dollar, it checks all the boxes and then some with room for only minor improvements. I am thrilled with it and actually am looking a lot more forward to my commute.

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  My All Time Favorite! - 2012 Kia Soul
  By skrubs - August 6 - 5:22 am

  I love my Kia Soul! I have owned 4 new cars in my lifetime and this one is my all time favorite. It is fun to drive. It handles great on winding roads. It is a very cool looking car. My iPhone connects to it via Bluetooth so I can answer my phone by pushing a button on the steering wheel and listen through my speakers. I can play my iTunes playlist using the same technology. Today I thought I would check to see if there were any recalls on my car, and the Kia isnt even listed in the NTSA site. That means no recalls for the entire line of Kias. Plus you cant beat the warranty. Awesome car!

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  Theres more than what meets the eye - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Guitar Man - July 15 - 6:56 am

  Just bought one of the "Molten Red" Sport models. Its got a real neat interior. Ive never seen anything like it. When driving at night I feel like Im in some sort of high-tech lounge or something. The front speakers light up in different ways and the sound system is great. Im an audiophile and a guitar player/sound engineer and know what sounds good so, rest assured.It does take some tweaking though. The car performs great and handles just the same. Im tickled pink with it. You gotta go easy on the accelerator. Its very sensitive at slow speeds.

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  Great Car - Buy one! - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Steve - June 15 - 6:50 pm

  I spent a lot of time comparing the RAV4, CRV, Outlander, and others. The price, features, MPG, warranty, and most important question "Do I like this car" led me to buy the Soul. I have put on 7,000 miles since May 09. I drive 60 miles a day and have taken this on 4 trips so far. I can truly say I am VERY happy with the Soul, how it is built, comfort, and MPG. I am 6 tall and there is plenty of room for me to sit. My 67" brother in law can also fit into this car! Front and side visibility is great. Rear visibility is good. Handling is great I saved $5 - 6,000 over a RAV4 (which was my 2nd choice). I am planning on driving this til it dies, we will see when that is!!

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  I love my green Alien car! - 2011 Kia Soul
  By Marisol - June 9 - 2:05 pm

  I recently bought a 2011 Kia soul, I really love the color( green) its definitely an eye catcher, so far I have been complimented by friends and family on how cute the car is, I have only had it for about a week so far it has been great and i hope it continues to be! I love the way it drives and the lights on the speaker are so cool!

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  Love my Soul - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Pat - June 5 - 8:26 am

  This Little suv is fun to drive Ive owned it for two days now and my husband and I love it. I tried out Honda Element-HondaCRV-HondaFit-and Ponticac Vibe- and Subaru Forester and the SOUL all in one day. The soul won We traded in a 2005 Nissan Frountier I recomend this to anyone....

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  MY KIA - 2010 Kia Soul
  By juliette - May 19 - 10:00 am

  We left ride away for a long trip with our new Kia Soul. Drove to Alaska. Round trip more than 12,000 miles. Fuel was amazing. Even loaded we done better mileage than suppose too. Not once we got out of the car because it was uncomfortable. After hours of driving always felt rested. We had NO problem at all. During the trip, we done 3 oil change. That was all we needed to do. Alaska was my longest driving trip. So glad we done it with such a comfortable reliable and economic car. Love it

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  2015 Soul 1.6 automatic=GREAT car! - 2015 Kia Soul
  By smsorange - April 22 - 7:26 am

  Have had the 2015 Soul a few days now. Im totally impressed. It has a shockingly spacious interior, great headroom, and stylish looks. The car has had no issues zipping down the highway even with its small 1.5, but 130 HP engine. I love the options that come standard in the Base model, including AC, Sirius XM, Bluetooth, heated mirrors, steering wheel volume/bluetooth controls, different driving modes (normal, comfort and sport) and cargo dividers under the back area. Mine is white with two-tone seats and it looks really sharp. For the money, I couldnt ask for more. Love it.

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  Fun dependable vehicle - 2012 Kia Soul
  By lovestalaugh - April 9 - 12:46 pm

  I bought my Kia Soul a year ago. I love driving it and find it good on gas. The inside is much larger than it looks. You can really fit alot in there. I have had no problems at all except for a blown fuse which the dealership took care of no problem. It is a great car for the price . I bought mine at Commonwealth Motors in Lawrence Mass and def recommend them, they are easy to deal with, have good prices and are not pushy. I go there for all my maintenance needs.

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  Kia Soul! - 2010 Kia Soul
  By SoulChick - April 6 - 10:00 am

  This is my update from about two months ago (7/12/2010). I now have 4106 miles on my Soul!. I still get about 26 mpg depending on my driving. My plastic doesnt seem to mar except for the areas with the controls. The one complaint I have is with the stereo. My original unit was bad and was replaced; however now we are on the 2nd replacement because the unit they put in "shorted itself out". I tend to think the dealer doesnt know how to install stereo equip. Now my two rear speakers and sub are crackling (possibly blown) and the bluetooth feature doesnt work. Hopefully when I get my new unit this will be the last I hear of this problem. Also, had my 1st recall repair; wiring harness