Kia Soul Summary
A clever combination of compact agility and generous interior space, the Kia Soul is a solid choice for regular commuters or drivers who are after an affordable family vehicle. It’s more fuel-efficient and smaller than standard SUVs and comes in several model options, like the Kia Soul Electric and Kia Soul Turbo. Some drivers have noted the lack of a Kia Soul with all-wheel drive, but this sturdy crossover still stands out compared to most of its competition thanks to its great value and intelligent interior design. Expect to find technology add-ons in recent models for a more entertaining ride.
Kia Soul Safety
All Kia Souls, including first-generation vehicles—which launched in North America in 2010—have the following standard safety features:
- Front, rear and side airbags
- Anti-lock brakes, which prevent wheels from locking up during braking
- Stability control to help you maintain direction during sharp braking
- Security system that disables the vehicle if the original manufacturer’s key isn’t inserted to start the car
The latest versions of the Soul from 2018 also offer more advanced safety systems. Lane departure warnings help prevent lane drift, and a blind spot detection system keeps drivers aware of vehicles approaching along the side. Smart cruise control intelligently regulates the vehicle’s speed, which can make long journeys and highway driving safer and more comfortable.
Kia Soul Interior
While not all drivers love the plastic interior, many find the quality better than what you’d expect for a modestly priced crossover SUV. A sunroof keeps the interior bright and airy, and controls are clearly labelled and easy to reach for the driver. You can look forward to good overall visibility from the comfortably elevated driver’s seat.
Kia Soul Technology
The 2019 Kia Soul comes standard with a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system to control your music, navigation and other functions with just a tap. 2019 models also include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, so you can use apps and make calls without fumbling with your phone. Satellite radio and a USB jack come standard on vehicles as early as those produced in 2010—Bluetooth was optional.
Kia Soul Space
One of the best things about the Soul Kia is the amount is space it has, both in the trunk and in the cabin, and this applies to all model years. There’s more than enough room for four adults to sit stretched out, but if you’re prepared to squeeze up a little, the car will fit five. In terms of cargo space, you’ll have 24.2 cubic feet with the seats up, which is more than enough for a grocery trip or to transport gym gear. Folding down the rear seats gives you a generous 63.3 cubic feet of space should you need more.
Kia Soul Comfort
The cloth seats may not be as high in quality as what you’ll find in other crossover SUVs, but they’re comfortable during long trips. Automatic climate control keeps the interior temperature moderate. The drive can feel a little rigid, and while you’ll notice some wind and road noise during travel, it’s not intrusive.
