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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  great car - 2010 Kia Soul
  By nacht4 - September 5 - 4:36 am

  I have to admit - Im very pleasantly surprised. Exterior is cute, inside is perfectly built for both a small person like me and my much taller husband. Seats are comfortable and roomy. The car handles very well, very responsive to stops and turns. Lots of room in the back. Its a big hit with my teenagers - from the cute design to the speakers that flash to the beat of the music. Its a lot of car for the price. Much more fun to drive than my old Honda Accord.

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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2012 Kia Soul
  By kiafan1 - September 1 - 2:12 am

  I never take the time to write reviews, but I made it a point to find the time to give my opinion on this car. Thank you KIA....you have made a GREAT car for an incredible price. Occupy wall street should hail you for doing your part and giving back. I have the car about 6 months now and loving t. My first car is a BMW and I cant wait to get into my KIA SOUL. It is spacious, fun, easy to drive, great on gas, lots of safety features, high tech....and I think I mentioned the value. Love the way it Zips around. What else could u possibly need or want in a car.

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  Most fun and value out there ! - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Mikeinphoenix - August 29 - 4:30 pm

  Purchased our Dune Exlaim after 1 year of driving everything in this class. Purchase experience from Joe at Liberty KIA in Prescott was the best. Meets all our needs for space, gas mileage and sound system. Build quality is superior to American cars owned. Love the driving position / visibility and its fun to drive. Glad we did not get the automatic as 5 speed is more fun but takes some time to drive it smoothly. Clutch is very light and easy. Ride is firm but controlled as expected. Love the Dune color and interior design. Controls are in easy and sensible reach. Has all the goodies my Saturn Aura XR had for 1/2 the price. Its not a high speed driving machine but what do you want for 17K.

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  Most bang for your money! - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Sightland - August 23 - 4:40 am

  This is first econobox in 20 some years but I have driven many rentals. Soul! is THE most vehicle for your hard earned money. I am saving money on gas, insurance, and tax. All the interior plastics are of good quality and much better visually. textured plastics give much more expensive "feel" and it sure does look better than what I find in my 2010 Lexus-RX350. I have the 03/2010 built date Soul and there may have been revision but I cant see how plastic can scratch anymore than others. This is probably the coolest car around with unique but functional design. I have compared this with xB and Soul is hands down winner. So much technology and safety as standard, I cant believe $18k price.

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  What a deal - 2011 Kia Soul
  By Jim - August 19 - 6:05 pm

  Affordable, relaible, and no problems. Bluetooth, terrific sound system, traction control. Room enough for my wife and I, our two small children and a double stroller in the trunk. I am 6 feet tall and fit comfortably in the front seat. Everyone is always supprised with the ammount of room inside the vehicle.

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  Sweet Pea - 2010 Kia Soul
  By SolRol - August 19 - 7:56 am

  Ive had my Alien Green car whom Ive named Sweet P now since March and cannot stop appreciating all that it has to offer in terms of coolness factor. And apparently those around cant either. It sounds cliche, but with its unique design it seems to turn car experts and novices into believers that you can have everything you want in a vehicle and still make a statement! Ive noticed people who drive expensive vehicles, both foreign and domestic really checking out my recent purchase. Something I wasnt expecting when I bought this attention grabber. Its a fun car to own; it handles well in tight spots, bluetooth is great, the sound system is awesome and its just right for me. Thx Kia!

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  "ITS A SLEEPER" - 2016 Kia Soul
  By Johnny - August 13 - 10:22 pm

  I looked and test drove tons of vehicles and the fact that I finally settled on my 2016 Kia Soul Exclaim w/ premium package amazes me. I wouldnt think originally that it would be the one. First the fact their isnt many on the road enabled me to get a good price unlike a Honda. Secondly it has a classic 6 speed automatic and NO CVT, I have the upgraded 2.0 which in this class is hard to get something thats not underpowered like the Subaru cross trek. The 2.0 has more then adequate power, my first drive on the highway I was sandwiched between a semi and a lane that was merging so I punched it and was very satisfied with the passing power. The vehicle is very easy to maneuver and drive, the back up camera is very helpful. I have the 8" touchscreen infotainment and its very responsive the navigation is on a SD card but is excellent with lane guidance. The leather seats are nice and comfortable I will say the passenger seat sits kinda low but I dont care Im not the passenger. I also have the upgraded infinity stereo and it sounds good but could be better maybe I need to play around with settings. One of my favorite features is the panoramic sunroof with power sunshade it really brightens up the inside of vehicle. In closing Im very happy with my Kia Soul and really believe for the money its a sleeper vehicle.

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  This little car is amazing - 2016 Kia Soul
  By Andre - August 10 - 10:22 am

  I was looking for a Honda CR-Vibrations but decided to get the Kia Soul. No regrets. - The best infotainment in the market. - 10 way power - very comfortable - heated and cooled front seats. Heated rear seats. - Cooled glovebox - Panoramic moonroof. Spectacular! - Best warranty 10 years - Great design. Unique. - Smooth ride - Easy to get in and out

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  One Fine Machine - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Charlie - July 21 - 10:20 am

  One fine little Machine Averaging 33 miles to gallon. Handling and Performance is excellent. Finally bought something that doesnt look like everything else on the highway. As for the Kia Soul I dont think I could have bought anything out there that satisfies myself and my wife more then Kia Soul

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  LOVED my 2011 but onto my SECOND in a 2016 - 2011 Kia Soul
  By Joe - July 13 - 11:06 am

  What can I say about my Soul?!?! I MISS my old one; but due to health reasons, I had to update from a 5 spd to an automatic.. I LOVED and REALLY miss my old one; dont get me wrong I LOVE LOVE LOVE my new one; but I was fresh outta the gate with my 11 and was able to do SO many things and go SO many places MOST wouldnt go with a quad (MAYBE someday with my new one). BUT; off the bat, I am 6 4 300 lbs a VERY big guy, and the comfort was A++++ in getting in and out; the car was simple and VERY reliable, AMAZING in snow (in fact, first year I had it, drove through 8+ inches of snow with less than decent tires on it with NO issues at all) I took it off roading to several locations with NO issues; AMAZING on gas I avgd about 38 mpg; etc... I cant say enough good things about the car... The ONLY thing I was no fond of; was the 5 spd at speeds over 60, the engine just sounded so strained; would have been much better as a 6 spd... BUT anyway that is the only thing I had issues with... Due to health reasons; I upgraded 2 weeks ago to a BN 16.... I AM IN LOVE with it... SO much bang for the buck that I couldnt imagine owning ANY other car... ANYWAY; our family is now up to 3 Kias and will be 5 in about 2 weeks... ALL newer or BN I look forward to owning this one and the ones to follow; hopefully an AWD one in the future :) I wish yall luck in your search and hope you have an amazing time with yours as I did...