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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  My jaw hit the floor - 2010 Kia Soul
  By tim - January 4 - 1:53 pm

  I was not in the market for a car. I drove by the lot that was changing to Kia, so, they only had one model of each car. Perched high on a lift was an engine orange Kia sport! I turned around, test drove the car, went home and researched/went back and bought it. Ive only owned hondas! This is my grand new car owner moment. I start each day in a good mood, because the car is amazingly fun to drive! I live by Disney, tourist drenched, &Ive been stopped 2 dozen times, with people asking endless questions! I do agree on the easily scratched plastic interior! USA assembly perfection. Gorgeous angles. Perfect comfort. Fingertip controls. Hidden trunk grocery stow. Solar Windows. Made for Young, but proud 47 year man

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  Nice Set of Wheels - 2012 Kia Soul
  By Ed Ross - December 18 - 11:53 am

  We had been married 44 years. For the first time in our marriage, my wife asked for a specific car, the Soul! I said, a what? We usually buy a new car ever year or two; I give her the new one and I use the older one in my sales job. My wife loves this car. She is 52" and it fits her perfectly. It sets higher so she can see fine and this makes getting in and out much easier for her. We have had no problems with the car. It has excellent pick up and stops well. It will seat five but one of them had better be a child in the back seat! Our only complaint is that the ride is harsher than need be. I understand the new ones are a bit softer. I dont like not having a spare tire so I got one at the junk yard. I change my own oil and it is easy to do on the Soul. We bought this car with 3000 miles on it, the previous owner felt is was too small for his family but it is perfect for us. All our kids are grown. Gas mileage is a little less than I had hoped for. At 65 mph and on the flat Interstates in IL, I cannot get over 30 and a milk a car for gas mileage. I could get 36 on our 2010 Malibu on the same roads. I didnt like that it did not have "driving lights" so I bought OEM fog lights on eBay and installed them so that they are on whenever the ignition is on. I do like the fact that after an amount of time, the car will automatically turn off any lights left on after you turn the car off; headlights, dome light, etc. My wife and I would highly recommend the Kia Soul. We have the "Plus" model. We have only had one recall and that was optional. (UPDATE) This car is amazing, still no problems and my wife loves it. We almost traded it for a 2016 Soul but this one is just too nice to give up. Go buy one.

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  2.5 Years and Still Reliable - 2011 Kia Soul
  By officiallyjuju - December 8 - 11:47 am

  The Soul is spacious and does everything I need it to do. Its been a reliable car for the past two and a half years, giving me little to no issues. Unfortunately, I did buy the 2011 model with the 4 speed transmission which is very evident when I need the pick-me-up but besides that it drives well.

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  Versatility, practicality and value - 2016 Kia Soul
  By Bucki - October 30 - 10:03 pm

  I purchased a 2016 KIA Soul Base automatic. I paid $14.5k before taxes and registration. At this price point the Soul represents an excellent value and I would recommend it. Strong points: Versatility, practicality and excellent warranty. The wagon/hatchback layout is much more versatile than a traditional sedan, at a significantly lower price than a comparably-sized SUV/crossover. KIA’s 5y/60k miles bumper-to-bumper and 10y/100k miles powertrain warranty offers excellent protection for budget-minded buyers. Weak points: Lackluster performance and comfort. Performance from the stock 1.6L engine is adequate but the Soul is definitely not a fast vehicle. Very smooth transmission with relatively low gearing helps to maintain car dynamics, but at the expense of fuel economy and engine noise. Comfort is good for short drives, but long road trips are tiresome. And don’t mistake the Soul for a “real” SUV/crossover – if you want higher ground clearance, AWD or even minimal towing capability, look elsewhere. Performance: The Base 1.6L engine delivers adequate power for city driving and reasonable highway performance, but the Soul isn’t fast. The transmission gearing keeps the engine relatively revved-up (compared to other modern cars), helping to improve driving dynamics, but at the expense of fuel economy and increased cabin noise. Even with 4 adults the Soul does not feel underpowered at normal highway speeds and typical interstate inclines, but acceleration is only adequate, at best. Fuel economy isn’t what one would expect from a vehicle of this size. The 6-speed automatic transmission is very smooth and usually picks the right gears for the driving conditions, helping to make the most of the little engine. But it also keeps the rpm’s relatively high (close to 3,000 at interstate speeds), resulting in more engine noise. Comfort: The Soul offers a lot of space for the money and there is enough room for 4 fully grown adults to ride in relative comfort. Sitting position is very good with generous leg, head and elbow room, both in the front and the rear. However, the seats are not all that comfortable for long rides. Front seats offer good lateral support, but lumbar support is nonexistent, and there are a few “hard spots” in the seatbacks making prolonged rides somewhat tiring. Rear seats are very flat bench-like, and the seatback angle does not help to adopt a relaxed position for a long ride. Access is excellent thanks to the low floor, tall roof and large doors. The ride is stiff but adequate for the size and class of vehicle, and not overwhelmingly harsh. Cabin sound level is good during city driving and adequate at highway speeds. Both engine and road noise are kept down to reasonable levels. Quality and fit-and-finish: Interior materials are good for vehicle class and price. All panels fit nicely and everything seems solid and well made. There are no squeaks or rattles when driving over uneven road surfaces, and in general the vehicle feels very solid. Cargo space and versatility: The wagon/hatchback layout offers a lot of versatility. The cargo space is adequate and the trunk layout is very clever. There is a cargo organizer tray under the trunk floor, allowing to keep valuable out-of-sight and organized, at the expense of some cargo space above. This tray can be removed, and the trunk floor can be lowered increasing the cargo space by about 30% to accommodate large suitcases. And of course the back seats can be folded, providing plenty of space for large objects. Equipment: As all KIAs, the Soul comes well equipped even in the most basic trim, with a good audio system that includes satellite radio, Bluetooth and voice commands. Pairing-up a phone is quick and easy, and voice commands work generally well. The basic A/C-heater performance is adequate and it is not as noisy as in other economy vehicles. Privacy glass is a nice detail that helps to keep your stuff out-of-sight and the interior cool. Soul comes without a spare tire, but you can buy a tire-jack kit for under $200. Safety: Passive safety is very good with a 5-star rating from NHTSA and Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The Base model lacks some of the modern active safety features such as lane departure, blind spot monitoring or front collision warning/avoidance, but for the price it is a very safe choice. Visibility is very good all-around. Controls are simple, intuitive and very ergonomic. Handling and steering are adequate considering that the Soul is pretty high. Braking is adequate with good pedal feel. Headlights are average with good low-beams. High beams have good reach but provide little illumination to the road surface. Final verdict: For less than $15k the Soul is a strong value and an excellent choice for anybody who wants a versatile, practical vehicle on a budget. KIA’s excellent warranty provides extra protection that otherwise is only available through a pricey extended warranty.

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  Regarding the below review regarding poor mileage... - 2013 Kia Soul
  By mazda5forme - September 26 - 1:03 pm

  Aparently the reviewer below mine hasnt heard about the problems the EPA found with the sticker listed on the KIA car models with wrong fuel mileage...caused by an error in the testing done by KIA in Korea on the KIA Soul and a few other KIA models. To make a long story short...the base Soul actual fuel mileage for example was LISTED on the window sticker as 27/35 mpg but new figures are 25/30 for the smaller 1.6 base engine...and for the bigger 2.0 engine it WAS 26/29 mpg listed and actual new figures are less mpg to. I signed up with KIA and now get a KIA debit card to use for gasoline based on how far I drive and they add 15% more for your trouble. Simply register with KIA.

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  Best Kept Secret! - 2011 Kia Soul
  By smack1963 - August 28 - 9:42 am

  I bought a Kia Soul + to replace my Jeep Wrangler gas hawg. I didnt want to part with my Jeep, I loved it. Im glad I did. The Soul has so many standard features for thousands less than the competition. It has more power that other little puddle jumpers I tried. Its not a race car, but enough to pass 2 pokey cars at once. Im 6, 230#, it is super easy to get in and out of and plenty of head & leg room both front and back. Had to convert my .m4p files to .mp3 files to play in the usb port, but it works flawlessly. A friend has a Chevy Malibu with a usb port that doesnt work. Gas MPG is between 28 - 31 mixed driving. I added the euro-style racing stripe a few days later, LOVE IT!

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  What a fun car - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Shannon - August 23 - 10:00 am

  I got my Ghost the end of May and I love it! I have never owned an import before but was impressed by the 100/10 year. I travel for work so I rack up the miles. It is not the smoothest or quietest ride (what do you expect for the price and low profile tires) but still wouldnt trade it for the world. The options are great and the car just screams FUN.

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  Pretty good for a first new car! - 2012 Kia Soul
  By letzgostate - August 19 - 12:16 am

  Got my 2012 base manual soul the first day they had them on the lot. I chose the manual base and love the 6-speed. The car is amazingly peppy. Since getting mine I have had to have a new rear axle put on the car (I had the swaying road problem too), a new gauge cluster installed, I have had a flat that was not fixable with the fix-a-flat system in the car, and I had a pebble nick the windshield, create a small pit, and quickly had a crack over a foot spread across the windshield, and I have had the battery die for no apparent reason. Aside from those problems, the car has been awesome! Take advantage of roadside assistance, I have 3x already and always quick and free! Oh, and 38 mpg mixed!

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  Just got it today - 2010 Kia Soul
  By impressed - August 13 - 5:46 pm

  After seeing it at the autoshow this car is awesome! I got the only one in the city gad milage is GREAT SO FAR.

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  2014 Kia Soul, my third Soul! - 2014 Kia Soul
  By fhgardner - July 21 - 6:23 pm

  This is my third Soul, having purchased 2011 and 2013 Exclaim models (I still own the 2013 Exclaim model), and they keep getting better and better! Budgetary limitations forced me to purchase the Base A/T model this time. Have had it for 10 days and 400 miles and it is a dream! The redesign of the chassis/frame and the suspension system has resulted in a much quieter soother riding car with a stiffness that is screaming "quality!". Time will tell if my impressions will last, but if the 2013 and 2011 models are any guide, Im in for another pleasurable ownership period!!!