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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  "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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  I have to admit, I like this car - 2011 Kia Soul
  By kaz411 - July 22 - 11:14 am

  This is my first Kia, kind of bought it on a whim and had some buyers remorse initially but it has worn off. Miles were very low, and the car still runs and looks new. I drive for UBER on the weekends and live in AZ, so this car has had some wear and tear on it and has done very well so far. My passengers like the car, they say a lot its roomier than it looks and it is a fairly comfortable ride, even at higher freeway speeds. I do agree the shocks and struts should be a little stronger but most passengers say its a smooth ride. Ice cold a/c, large console area and glove box to keep my goodies in, pockets behind seats hold water, etc.

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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...

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  Not what we expected - 2010 Kia Soul
  By chick_poo - July 6 - 7:41 am

  We purchased our Soul ! used from a dealer with 33,000 miles. We bought this car because of the reviews in regards to gas mileage. This Soul is terrible in regards to mpg. I have written to Kia and I am waiting for a reply before I proceed further. I drive 60 miles a day (highway) to work, set my cruise on 70 (posted speed limit) and the best gas mileage I have gotten is 25.9 mpg. The advertised gas mileage is the main reason we bought our Soul. While it is very fun to drive, the gas mileage and the exterior quality (lack of) will not keep us a Kia customer. Paint chips very easily. Very sad because this is a fun car to drive and is very roomy.

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  On NUMBER 2 - 2016 Kia Soul
  By Joe - July 5 - 9:24 am

  This is the second Kia Soul that I have owned; the first being a 2011 (WHICH I LOVED, but cant drive standard anymore, which is why I had to buy new) I must say; I LOVED my old one, but this one... OMG SO MUCH nicer!!! More features for the base model (which is what I had before and now) MORE power, MORE room, MORE of everything... I am absolutely IMPRESSED with Kia and how much they have grown since the first few hit the market some years back (I owned a 99 Kia Sportage Convertable 4x4) the quality and pricing is SO awesome! I recommend these cars to anyone and everyone and turn non-believers to believers... Our family NOW owns 3 Kias we are going onto 5 within the next few weeks... A Sorento (moms) Soul (mines) Sportage (my niece and her husband) and another niece who is going for an Optima and one of my sisters is looking at a Sportage for herself... We are TRULY becoming a family of Kia; absolutely LOVE the new Kias! If you havent switched; go take a look, a drive, etc and decide then... I give my Soul and A++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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  Winning Car, Wishing for More - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Richmond Guy - June 24 - 8:33 am

  The Soul is a huge hit. Fit and finish are flawless. The neat features and electronics give it a unique personality. Headroom is outstanding. Where it misses: Not enough cup holders and pockets to store things usefully. Mileage is not what I hoped (averaging around 26). But front seat is too small and unsupportive. If you are above average in height or build, front seat will be painful for anything but very short trips. But car is FUN and so well built.

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  2016 Kia Soul, big car ride in a smaller package ! - 2016 Kia Soul
  By Mr Bill - June 23 - 2:28 am

  If you are looking for a smaller vehicle that rides like a big SUV but want something more economical, the Kia Soul may be for you. I did not want to pay 25 or 30 thousand for a conventional SUV. I was on a trip and rented a Soul for a week. After flying back home and getting into my car I realized how much I enjoyed and missed the Kia Soul. Very roomy with a smooth ride. Great storage especially when you fold down the rear seat. Paid a bit over 17 K. You cannot beat the Kia warranty. Vehicle quality is top notch, very solid vehicle, oh, they call it a wagon. I have the 1.6 L engine, I would suggest going with the 2.0 L engine if you live in a mountainous or hilly region of the country. If I keep it around 2000 rpm my mileage has been about 33 mpg on a regular basis. Overall, love the Soul, it is a fun and surprising vehicle to own.

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  GREAT CAR, BUT______ - 2010 Kia Soul
  By Bud - June 21 - 3:23 am

  Have had my Kia for a year now. Still enjoy it quite a bit. Good looks, milegat (26+), no problem of any type. Now, my main problem is the ride. With the large tires, the Soul rides like a truck over rough or unevern roads. Further, there is no cushioning on the center storage bin or window ledges or arm rest. But, still overall a great small car!!