 | It has been suggested that this article besplit into articles titledKia Soul Mk1,Kia Soul Mk2 andKia Soul Mk3. (Discuss)(May 2025) |
| Kia Soul | |
|---|---|
%2c_front_12.11.22.jpg) 2023 Kia Soul GT Line | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Kia |
| Production | 2008–2025 |
| Model years | 2010–2025 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Subcompact crossover SUV |
| Body style | 5-doorhatchback[1][2] |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive |
TheKia Soul (Korean:기아 쏘울) is asubcompact crossover SUV[3] manufactured and marketed byKia since 2008. Often described and marketed as acrossover since its introduction,[4][5] the Soul is ahatchback with a box proportion[6][7] and tall roof, which are designed to maximize its interior space. Despite itsSUV-like styling, the Soul was never available withall-wheel drive, instead it is exclusively afront-wheel drive vehicle.[8]
The Soul first appeared in 2006 in the form of aconcept model displayed at theNorth American International Auto Show in Detroit. The production model made its debut at theParis Motor Show in 2008. During its introduction, Kia stated that the Soul is aimed at the North American market, and targeted towards buyers in the 18 to 35-year old range.[9]
The second-generation model was introduced in 2013 for the 2014 model year, which featured a larger exterior and interior dimensions along with a reworkedchassis, while keeping its boxy styling.[10] The Soul is currently in its third generation, which was introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year.[3] Since 2014, Kia has also marketed abattery electric variant as theSoul EV.
The name "Soul" comes from thehomophone ofSeoul, the city that hosts Kia's headquarters.[9]
| First generation | |
|---|---|
_(cropped).jpg) Pre-facelift | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | AM |
| Production | 2008–2013 |
| Model years | 2010–2013 (US) |
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | Yongpil Jang[12] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | Hyundai-Kia PB |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,550 mm (100.4 in) |
| Length | 4,105–4,120 mm (161.6–162.2 in) |
| Width | 1,785 mm (70.3 in) |
| Height | 1,610 mm (63.4 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,170–1,336 kg (2,579–2,945 lb) |
The first-generation Soul debuted at the2008 Paris Motor Show and is manufactured in South Korea. Designed at Kia's design center inCalifornia, the Soul concept was styled by Mike Torpey in early 2005 under the leadership of Chief Design OfficerPeter Schreyer.[9] As a new member of Kia's Design Team in Irvine, California, Torpey was sent to Kia Korea to brainstorm a new vehicle. After seeing a television documentary onwild boars and learning of their importance in Korean culture, Torpey sketched a caricature of a boar wearing a backpack. The New York Times reported "the boar's attitude of strength and capability was the image [Torpey] wanted for a new model aimed at hip urban youths."[13]
According to the Automotive News, the Soul had been criticized for a "plasticky" interior and a harsh ride.[14] Both the ride quality and interior were upgraded during the first year of production.[citation needed]
_(cropped).jpg)
The interior features two frontbucket seats and a rearflat-folding bench seat that can adjust to prioritize passenger or cargo volume.[15]
The first generation was marketed with a six-speaker stereo system that includes a CD player, a USB port for iPod connection, andSirius Satellite Radio. Additional features available for upgrade included additional speakers, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and Bluetooth for hands-free connectivity.[16]
Options included themed special editions as well as 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, racing stripes, "dragon" and "houndstooth" graphics, andLED turn indicators.[16]
For 2011, the Soul was updated with more conventional pull-out door handles, standard metallic interior trim, redesigned instrument cluster, leather shift boot, and switchblade style fold-in integrated key and remote, with an optionalSmart Key available in the Exclaim ("!") trim.
For model year 2012, the Soul received revised exterior and interior styling and new powertrains. In North America the updated 1.6 liter engine, featuring direct injection, makes 138 hp (103 kW) and 123 lb⋅ft (167 N⋅m); the 2.0 liter engine makes 164 hp (122 kW) and 148 lb⋅ft (201 N⋅m) of torque. The 1.6 now delivers 9.4–9.0 L/100 km; 30–31 mpg‑imp (25–26 mpg‑US) in the city and 7.8–7.6 L/100 km; 36–37 mpg‑imp (30–31 mpg‑US) on the highway. The 2.0 returns 10.2–9.8 L/100 km; 28–29 mpg‑imp (23–24 mpg‑US) in the city and 8.4–8.1 L/100 km; 34–35 mpg‑imp (28–29 mpg‑US) on the highway.[17] New features included navigation, UVO infotainment, leather and heated seats and automatic climate control.[18]
As part of the 2012 upgrades, European models were fitted with new 1.6-liter GDI gasoline or 1.6 CRDi diesel engines, both of which can be specified with an automatic gearbox or a new six-speed manual gearbox, replacing the five-speed unit in the old version. As a result, the gasoline offers a 10 kW (14 bhp) increase in power compared to its predecessor, while returning improved fuel economy. The modified 1.6 CRDi diesel returns 4.90 L/100 km; 48.0 mpg‑US (57.6 mpg‑imp) and has cut its CO2 emissions from 138 g/km to 129g/km – particularly important for the European market where taxation is based on carbon emissions.[19]
The 2013 North American Soul received upgrades including 3 new colors, a bulged hood, revised grille with black chrome accents, LED red tail lights, LED amber front turn signals under the headlights and white LED running lights under the front turn signals. The exterior Kia badges became now smooth instead of raised lettering. Inside, audio controls were relocated to the steering wheel and Bluetooth became standard across the range. Upper trims includedpower folding heated mirrors with turn signal repeaters. The center display for sound system was previously red LED and was revised to include a full color range.
Kia offered four Special Edition Soul in 2010: Denim (below), Ignition, Dragon (below), and Ghost as primarily visual upgrades.[20]
The Denim is a limited (1200 units) version of 2010 Soul+ for the US market. Appearing in June 2009, it features a blue body color with white racing stripes, white painted side-view mirrors, and white, 18-inch, lead wheels.[21][22]
The Kia Ignition Soul, in orange, is based on the Soul+ model with offset black striping and blacked-out 18-inch rims, an alloy gas cap, and a rear spoiler. Upgraded equipment according to AutoBlog: upgraded stereo, moon roof, keyless remote entry, tinted windows, cruise control, Bluetooth, and then some.[23]
The Shadow Dragon edition is based on the Soul trim line and was limited to about 1,900 units. Exterior details include shadow black paint with matte-black dragon graphics on its hood and tailgate, gloss-black bumper inserts, a body-color rear wing and 18 inch black alloy wheels. The interior features heated, black leather trimmed seats.[24]
Referred to as Ghost Soul byCar And Driver, the visual upgrades include gray-blue paint with a gray stripe running from the headlights to the C-pillar, unique 18-inch wheels, side-marker lights on the fender vents, and a new body kit with a rear spoiler. The special edition augments the Soul + trim with equipment usually only available on the pricier! and Sport models with upgrades that include fog lights, a sunroof, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated leather seats, and chrome interior trim. They also state it includes an audio upgrade comprising an amplifier, subwoofer, and pulsing lights around each speaker.[20]
The Soul White Tiger Special Edition was showcased at the 2010 SEMA[25] and comes with features such as Clear White with Grey exterior graphics, body colored bumpers, sport rear spoiler, black 18-inch alloy wheels, black fender vents with side marker repeater, rear bumper applique, alloy fuel door, black leather seat trim, heated front seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, push button start with smart key, illuminated sill plates, automatic climate control and front fog lights. There were some differences between the concept car presented in 2010 and the final 2011 production version, though what these were, were only hinted at in the article on TheKEEA.com.[25]
Kia presented the Soul Flex at the 2010 São Paulo International Auto Show. The Soul Flex is the first Koreanflexible-fuel vehicle capable of running on any blend fromE20-E25 gasoline (mandatory Brazilian blend) toE100 (neat ethanol). The new Soul Flex delivers a 44% improvement in fuel efficiency compared with the existing gasoline model, as well as superior power and torque.[26]
The North American version of the Soul was initially available in 2010 and 2011 with one of twoinline four-cylinder gasoline engines. The base model is powered by a 1.6-liter unit producing 122 bhp (91 kW) and mated exclusively with a five-speedmanual transmission.[27] Higher trims feature a 2.0-liter unit producing 142 bhp (106 kW) connected to a standard five-speed manual transmission with a four-speed automatic available as a stand-alone option.[28] A 1.6-liter diesel engine producing 126 PS (93 kW; 124 hp) and 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft) torque is offered in European models instead of the 2.0-liter gas, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.
For the 2012 model, the Soul received two new transmissions and a new engine: 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions replaced the old choices, and the new2.0-liter Nu engine replacing the old Beta engine; the 1.6-liter Gamma engine remained as the base model choice. The Gamma 1.6 gets a new dual variable valve timing 128 hp (95 kW), and in some countries, gets a direct injection fuel system.[29]
| Model | Years | Transmission | Power@rpm | Torque@rpm | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) (Official) | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 Gamma MPI | 2008–2011 | 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic | 93 kW (126 PS; 124 hp) @ 6,300 rpm | 156 N⋅m (115 lb⋅ft; 15.9 kg⋅m) @ 4,200 rpm | 11.0s (Manual) | 177 km/h (110 mph) (Manual) 162 km/h (101 mph) (Automatic) |
| 2012–2013 | 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic | 95 kW (129 PS; 127 hp) @ 6,300 rpm | 157 N⋅m (116 lb⋅ft; 16 kg⋅m) @ 4,850 rpm | |||
| 1.6 Gamma GDi | 2012–2013 | 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic | 103 kW (140 PS; 138 hp) @ 6,300 rpm | 167 N⋅m (123 lb⋅ft; 17 kg⋅m) @ 4,850 rpm | 10.4s (Manual) 10.9s (Automatic) | 180 km/h (112 mph) |
| 2.0 Beta II | 2008–2011 | 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic | 104 kW (142 PS; 140 hp) @ 6,000 rpm | 186 N⋅m (137 lb⋅ft; 19 kg⋅m) @ 4,600 rpm | ||
| 2.0 Nu MPI | 2012–2013 | 6-speed manual | 122 kW (166 PS; 164 hp) @ 6,500 rpm | 201 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft; 20.5 kg⋅m) @ 4,800 rpm | ||
| 1.6 U CRDi | 2008–2011 | 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic | 94 kW (128 PS; 126 hp) @ 4,000 rpm | 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft; 26.5 kg⋅m) @ 1,900–2,750 rpm | 11.3s (Manual) 11.9s (Automatic) | 182 km/h (113 mph) (Manual) 176 km/h (109 mph) (Automatic) |
| 1.6 U2 CRDi | 2011–2013 | 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic | 10.7s (Manual) 11.7s (Automatic) | 180 km/h (112 mph) (Manual) 177 km/h (110 mph) (Automatic) |
The Soul earned a maximum five star safety rating fromEuro NCAP.[30] In 2009, According toEuro NCAP, the five star safety rating places the Soul among the safest B-segment family cars in the world.[31] The Soul was awarded the maximum five star safety rating by theAustralasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), but only on the New Zealand version. Australian versions get 4 out of 5 stars.
| Moderate overlap frontal offset | Good |
| Small overlap frontal offset | Poor |
| Side impact | Good |
| Roof strength | Good |
| Head restraints & seats | Good |
Euro NCAP test results for a LHD, 5-door hatchback variant on a 2009 registration:
| Test | Points | % |
|---|---|---|
| Overall: |  | |
| Adult occupant: | 31.2 | 75% |
| Child occupant: | 42 | 86% |
| Pedestrian: | 13.9 | 39% |
| Safety assist: | 6 | 86% |
.jpg)
The design of the Soul concept was based on theKia Mesa concept and it was initially introduced as a compact crossover with a 5-door SUV body styling with five seats andsuicide doors. It included a 2.0-literI4 engine, 5-speedautomatic transmission with manual shift capability and adaptivecruise control.
The vehicle was unveiled at the2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.[34]
By late 2008, Kia announced it would put the car into production as a 2009 model.[35]
The Soul Burner, Diva, and Searcher are concept vehicles, created by Kia's European design team, under the guidance of Kia's Chief Design Officer,Peter Schreyer.[36]
The Soul Diva was created as a fashion accessory for a style-conscious young-at-heart woman, who regards her car to be as important as her entire outfit. It included a white, gold and black color scheme, full-length tinted glass panoramic roof, glossy black imitation leather, using 'quilted' stitching and trimmed to look like sofas, and black long-pile 'Pony-hide' carpet.
The Soul Burner was described as the 'bad boy' of Soul concepts.[citation needed] It included a solid roof panel and no roof rails, 245/40R19 tires, fourbucket seats,[37] and L-shaped day-light LED driving lamps around the outer edges. At the rear, two vertical exhaust pipes were placed at the extremes of the bumper.
Kia's Soul Searcher was designed to capture the spirit of Korean and Far Eastern culture, with a focus on achieving personal inner peace and creating a calm cocoon for the occupants. It included an old leather finish on the bonnet, powered folding roof, tailgate panel, dashboard, door panels and steering wheel rim, plus gray-beige felt floor and seats.
The Soul Hamstar Edition, introduced in 2011, featured body colored bumpers, rear sport spoiler, black 18-inch wheels, black fender vents w/side marker repeater, rear bumper applique, matte alloy fuel door, Hamstar exterior graphics, black leather seating, heated seats, hamstar edition floor mats,smart key push button starting, automatic climate control, fog lights, and leather steering wheel and shift knob.
The vehicles were unveiled at the2008 Geneva Motor Show.[38] The Soul Burner later appeared at the 2008SEMA show.[39]
.JPG)
The Soul Hybrid/Eco-Soul is a concept vehicle with a Gamma 1.6L gasoline engine, an electric motor rated 15 kW (20 PS; 20 hp) and 105 N⋅m (77 lb⋅ft), continuously variable transmission, ISG (Idle Stop&Go), regenerative braking.
The vehicle was unveiled at the2008 Paris Motor Show[40][41] and later atAuto Shanghai[42] and later at theCanadian International Auto Show.
.jpg)
The Soul'ster is a concept vehicle with a 2-door, 4-seater cabriolet SUV body styling with an open roof over the rear seats. It includes dual chrome exhaust, polished aluminum exhaust tips featuring carbon-fiber interior sleeves, and 19-inch 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. It is similar to theJeep Wrangler. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2009NAIAS.
The production version includes a choice of 1.6L I4 rated at 120 hp (89 kW) with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 2.0L I4 rated at 120 hp (89 kW) with a 5-speed manual transmission.[43] It went on sale in 2010.[44]
After the Soul's release, Kia USA launched commercials in a campaign titled "A new way to roll", created by Los Angeles-based ad agency David&Goliath,[45] and featuring city streets with animatedhamsters on stationaryhamster wheels. The commercials have attracted popularity on video-sharing sites[46] and were awarded "Automotive Ad of the Year" at theNielsen Automotive Advertising Awards.[47]
Featured songs include "Do What You Do" byMarz, "Fort Knox" byGoldfish, "Junkyard" byThe Potbelleez, "colors" byCalvin Harris, "The Choice Is Yours (Revisited)" byBlack Sheep, "Applause" byLady Gaga and, during the2011 MTV Video Music Awards, "Party Rock Anthem" byLMFAO.
A 2013 Soul commercial, released August 2012, featured the song "In My Mind (Axwell Remix)" byIvan Gough,Feenixpawl andGeorgi Kay[48] with hamsters at an 18th-centuryopera house to the song.
In October 2011, the Kia Soul Hamsters were inducted into the Madison Avenue Walk of Fame, advertising industry's equivalent of Hollywood and Vine.[citation needed] As of 2011, Kia is also the only car manufacturer to be inducted. From 2010 to 2012, Kia released a series of commercials for the Soul featuring professional golferMichelle Wie.[49][50]
As anApril Fool's Day joke, Kia published a press release on a new environmentally friendly concept based on the Soul in 2010, called the Air Propulsion and Retardation Installation Line. The concept used sensors on the bumpers and retractable panels to harness the flow of wind.[51]
The Soul earned aRed Dot design award in 2009.[52] In aPopular Mechanics comparison, the Soul surpassed theNissan Cube and theScion xB.[53]Fifth Gear gave it a 4/5 rating,[54] as didThe Times[55] andWhatCar?.[56] The Soul was named to theKelley Blue Book's '5 Great Deals' List,[57] and recognized by the Texas Auto Writers Association as 'Best Value'.[58]
The Soul was recognized on the "Coolest New Cars UnderUS $18,000" list byKelley Blue Book's KBB.com in 2009.[59] The Soul'ster was also awarded 2009 Concept Truck of the Year[60] and named to "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" List byKelley Blue Book's KBB.com.[61] The Soul was named "Best Car 2009" by theChilean daily newspaperLa Tercera, and Kia MotorsChile was also selected as "Best Maker of the Year 2009" inChile.[62]
The Soul's residual value after three years was valued at 56 percent of the original value to take the top place in its segment in theAutomotive Lease Guide's latest report. It surpassed theNissan Cube and theScion xB.[63]
In 2010, the Soul was named byTime's as one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010".[64] Also that year, the car was named one of "10 Great And Safe Rides For Teens" byAutoweek magazine,[65] and was given the "2010 Automotive Excellence Award" ByPopular Mechanics.[66] In the same year, the Soul was also named "Small Car of the Year" byFAMA Magazine[67] and 'Best Hatchback of 2010' byCars.com.[68]Edmunds.com named the Soul as one of the "Top Recommended" Vehicles for 2010.[69]
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
_%25E2%2580%2593_Frontansicht%2c_17._April_2014%2c_D%25C3%25BCsseldorf.jpg) Pre-facelift | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | PS |
| Production | 2013–2019 |
| Model years | 2014–2019 |
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | Byung-Kyu Park[70] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,570 mm (101.2 in) |
| Length | 4,140 mm (163.0 in) |
| Width | 1,800 mm (70.9 in) |
| Height | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,264–1,426 kg (2,787–3,144 lb) |
Unveiled at the 2013New York[72] andFrankfurt auto shows,[73] the second generation Soul is based on Kia's Track'ster concept,[citation needed] and offers an increase in torsional rigidity of 28.7%, wheelbase increased to 2,570 mm (101.2 in), width increased to 1,800 mm (70.9 in) and the same overall height of 1,600 mm (63.0 in). The redesign features a wraparound greenhouse, high-mounted tail lights, large trapezoidal lower air intake and "floating" body color panel set into the liftgate.
The second-generation Kia Soul shares its platform with thesecond generation Kia cee'd hatchback. 66 percent of the chassis utilizes either Ultra High Strength Steel (35 percent) or High Strength Steel (31 percent). The front subframe uses four bushings (the first generation has none) and the shock absorbers on the rear torsion beam axle are now mounted vertically allowing for more suspension travel.
The U.S. model went on sale as 2014 model year vehicle, and early models included a choice of 1.6-literGamma GDi or 2.0-literNu GDi engines, mated to 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions. Trim levels included base, + (Plus), and ! (Exclaim) models.[74]
The European model was set to go on sale in early 2014, with UK launch in Spring 2014. Early models include a choice of 1.6-liter GDi gasoline orCRDi diesel engines (from the previous generation Kia Soul), six-speed manual or automatic transmission, three different roof colors (black, white, and red), a choice of 11 body colors. Korean market models received the same two engines, with the 2.0-liter gasoline engine currently reserved for North American buyers.
.jpg)
The Kia Track'ster concept is a 3-doorconceptsubcompact crossover SUV which presaged the second generation Soul. The vehicle was unveiled at the2012 Chicago Auto Show.[75]
The Kia Track'ster concept was equipped with a custom 19-inch wheels designed by Kia's California design team and HRE, 360 mm (14 in)Brembo vented and cross-drilled front disc brakes with six-piston calipers, 350 mm (13.6 in) rear brake discs with four-piston calipers, angled roof accented with Inferno Orange, lengthened front door with smooth billet push-style handles, carbon fiber lower side valances in Inferno Orange and incorporate functional rear-brake cooling ducts, back hatch incorporates a horizontal Inferno Orange "backpack" panel five inches wider than a production Soul, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS), electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system, and a short-throw six-speed manual transmission.
For model year 2017, the Soul underwent a facelift. Included in the changes are some minor body trim changes, new paint colors, and new headlight options.[76] The biggest change comes at the top trim level, in which the old 2.0-liter Nu engine is replaced by the 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine, which adds 40 hp (30 kW) and 61 N⋅m (45 lb⋅ft) of torque over the outgoing model.[77] The engine is mated to a 7-speeddual-clutch transmission, replacing the 6-speed automatic. The powertrain change resulted in the car being one of the fastest in its class.[78]
In 2018, reports linked a large number of fires to the Soul in the United States.[79][80] The Center for Auto Safety subsequently demanded Kia recall all Soul vehicles from 2010 through 2015 for fire hazard.[81][82] Kia initiated a voluntary recall for fire risk on January 11, 2019, but the Soul was not included in the recall.[83]
_%25E2%2580%2593_Frontansicht%2c_24._Juni_2017%2c_D%25C3%25BCsseldorf.jpg)
_%25E2%2580%2593_Heckansicht%2c_24._Juni_2017%2c_D%25C3%25BCsseldorf.jpg)
The Red Line edition is a limited (2,000 units) version of 2014 Soul Plus with white body color, body kit with red accents, redesigned grille, front and rear fascias, and side skirts; custom 18-inch alloy wheels, 2.0-liter gasoline direct injected (GDI) four-cylinder engine, six-speed automatic transmission, black cloth seats with red stitching, leather steering wheel, black-leather dash hood with red stitching, black carpeted floor mats with red piping, sport pedals; shift knob ring, air vent ring, dash speakers and console tray trim in red.[84]
In 2013, Kia started testing prototype versions of a Soul electric vehicle based on the second-generation Soul. In November 2013, Kia announced they would be producing the Soul EV and it would go on sale in 2014. Powered by a 27 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, the Soul EV has a target range of over 190 km (120 mi) and fast charging capability of 100 kW DC via aCHAdeMO connection.[85] Its motor is rated at 109 bhp (81 kW; 111 PS) and 285 N⋅m (210 lb⋅ft) of torque.[86]
The vehicle was first showcased at theChicago Auto Show in February 2014[87] where Kia announced the Soul EV will be offered in California, Oregon, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. Kia is targeting regions with the largest EV markets and infrastructure, and plans to offer the Soul EV in other markets in the near future.[88]
Kia demonstrated their upcoming "Drive Wise" sub-brand at the2016 Consumer Electronics Show with a Soul EV modified with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology.[89]
| Model | Years | Transmission | Power@rpm | Torque@rpm | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) (Official) | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | ||||||
| 1.6 Gamma II MPi | 2013–2019 | 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic | 91 kW (124 PS; 122 hp) @ 6,300 rpm | 156 N⋅m (115 lb⋅ft; 15.9 kg⋅m) @ 4,200 rpm | ||
| 1.6 Gamma II GDi | 97 kW (132 PS; 130 hp) @ 6,300 rpm | 161 N⋅m (119 lb⋅ft; 16.4 kg⋅m) @ 4,850 rpm | 11.0s (Manual) | 185 km/h (115 mph) (Manual) | ||
| 1.6 Gamma II T-GDi | 2016–2019 | 7-speed dual clutch | 150 kW (204 PS; 201 hp) @ 6,000 rpm | 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft; 26.5 kg⋅m) @ 1,500-4,500 rpm | 7.8s | 196 km/h (122 mph) |
| 2.0 Nu MPi | 2013–2019 | 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic | 113 kW (153 PS; 151 hp) @ 6,000 rpm | 186 N⋅m (137 lb⋅ft; 19 kg⋅m) @ 4,800 rpm | ||
| 2.0 Nu GDi | 122 kW (166 PS; 164 hp) @ 6,500 rpm | 201 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft; 20.5 kg⋅m) @ 4,800 rpm | ||||
| Diesel | ||||||
| 1.6 U II CRDi | 2013–2014 | 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic | 94 kW (128 PS; 126 hp) @ 4,000 rpm | 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft; 26.5 kg⋅m) @ 1,900–2,750 rpm | 11.2s (Manual) 12.2s (Automatic) | 180 km/h (112 mph) (Manual) 177 km/h (110 mph) (Automatic) |
| 2014–2019 | 6-speed manual 7-speed dual clutch | 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp) @ 4,000 rpm | 300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft; 30.6 kg⋅m) @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | 11.2s (Manual) 11.1s (DCT) | 180 km/h (112 mph) (Manual) 182 km/h (113 mph) (DCT) | |
| Moderate overlap frontal offset | Good |
| Small overlap frontal offset: Driver side – 2015–2019 | Good |
| Small overlap frontal offset: Driver side – 2015–2019 | Acceptable |
| Side impact | Good |
| Roof strength | Good |
Euro NCAP test results for a LHD, 5-door hatchback variant on a 2014 registration:
| Test | Points | % |
|---|---|---|
| Overall: |  | |
| Adult occupant: | 28.6 | 75% |
| Child occupant: | 40.7 | 82% |
| Pedestrian: | 21.3 | 59% |
| Safety assist: | 7.3 | 56% |
Kia Motors once again teamed up with David&Goliath to promote the Soul using anthropomorphic hamster characters. The most recent commercial was for the Turbo model, featuring theMotörhead song "Ace of Spades".[91]
The Soul won the 2014Red Dot Award for Passenger Car Design[92] and theiF Design Award for Discipline: Product in 2014 and Discipline: Communication in 2016.[93][94]
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
_X-Line_IMG_8182.jpg) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | SK3 |
| Production | 2019–present |
| Model years | 2020–present |
| Assembly | South Korea:Gwangju (Gwangju Plant) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm (102.4 in) |
| Length | 4,195 mm (165.2 in) |
| Width | 1,800 mm (70.9 in) |
| Height | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,270–1,375 kg (2,800–3,031 lb) |
Kia unveiled the third generation Soul andSoul EV (e-Soul in some markets) at the2018 LA Auto Show. Unlike earlier models, it has thin lights as headlights, with the large grille remaining.[96] An X-Line trim became optional.[97]
Initial models in the US include two engine options, aturbocharged 1.6-liter engine or a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine.[98] It will be both a gasoline model and an electric vehicle, with a strengthened chassis for crash safety.[99] The Soul now shares a platform with theHyundai Kona.[98]
The 2020 Soul and Soul EV were slated for release in North America in the second quarter of 2019.[100] In the US, Kia postponed the launch of theSoul EV to 2021.
The Soul EV is the only version of this generation sold in Europe.[101] It is now called e-Soul in most European markets, except for the UK.[102] Distinguished with the name "Soul Booster,"[99] the 2020 Soul shares a 64-kWh battery pack and powertrain with the Niro.[103]
In 2021, Kia discontinued the Soul in South Korea, due to poor sales and competition from the similarly sizedSeltos.[104] In the same year, the Soul started featuring the new Kia logo.
The 6-speed manual was discontinued in the United States for the 2022 model year. Previously, it was only offered on the base LX model. Also in the same year, the only exterior change was to the rear wiper.[105]
For the 2023 model year, Kia updated the Soul, giving it revised headlights, taillights, front bumper, and rear fascia, along with new two-tone color combinations and new wheel designs. Along with the facelift, Kia discontinued the rugged-looking X-Line trim.[106] Additionally, theturbo version was discontinued in the US, making the 2.0-literNu MPi naturally aspirated engine withCVT transmission the only available powertrain.[107]
The electric model was discontinued in late 2023.[108][109]
| Model | Years | Type/code | Transmission | Power | Torque | Acceleration 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) (official) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | ||||||
| 1.6 Gamma II MPi | 2019–present | 1,591 cc (97.1 cu in) I4 | 6-speed manual | 90 kW (122 PS; 120 hp) @ 6,300 rpm | 150 N⋅m (111 lb⋅ft; 15.3 kg⋅m) @ 4,850 rpm | 11.2s |
| 6-speed automatic | 12.0s | |||||
| 1.6 Gamma II T-GDi | 1,591 cc (97.1 cu in) Turbo I4 | 7-speed DCT | 150 kW (204 PS; 201 hp) @ 6,000 rpm | 265 N⋅m (195 lb⋅ft; 27 kg⋅m) @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | 7.8s | |
| 2.0 Nu MPi | 1,999 cc (122.0 cu in) I4 | 6-speed manual | 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp) @ 6,200 rpm | 180 N⋅m (133 lb⋅ft; 18.4 kg⋅m) @ 4,500 rpm | ||
| 6-speed automatic | 10.2s | |||||
| CVT | ||||||
| Electric | ||||||
| Electric | 2019–present | e-Soul | 1-speed direct drive | 150 kW (204 PS; 201 hp) @ 3,800–8,000 rpm | 395 N⋅m (291 lb⋅ft; 40.3 kg⋅m) @ 0–3,600 rpm | |
Kia Motors collaborated withK-pop singerHyolyn to promote the Soul.[110] In addition, Kia collaborated with the groupItzy to introduce theSoul Booster cars in the music video of the group debut single "Dalla Dalla".[111] In collaboration withJYP Entertainment, Kia Motors' strategy was to create a growth story through various collaboration activities with the K-pop group, which included aSoul Booster Day with ITZY customer event, to spread the K-pop culture.[112][113]
| Moderate overlap frontal offset | Good |
| Small overlap frontal offset: Driver side | Good |
| Small overlap frontal offset: Driver side | Good |
| Side impact | Good |
| Roof strength | Good |
U.S. News & World Report ranked the Kia Soul at No. 1 (tied with theMazda CX-30 andHyundai Kona) on its list of Best Subcompact SUVs for 2022, giving it a score of 8.4 out of 10.[114]
As of 2015, Kia has produced over a million units of the Soul.[115] In the United States, over 100,000 units have been sold each year from 2011 to 2018, becoming the best-selling subcompact car ahead of theNissan Versa.
| Calendar year | United States[116] | Canada[117] | Mexico[118] | Europe[i][119][120] | South Korea[120] | Global |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 31,621 | 8,489 | 20,169 | 21,239 | ||
| 2010 | 67,110 | 9,857 | 15,286 | 22,200 | ||
| 2011 | 102,267 | 11,651 | 11,489 | 16,792 | ||
| 2012 | 115,778 | 7,560 | 5,532 | 6,661 | ||
| 2013 | 118,079 | 7,618 | 3,202 | 1,345 | ||
| 2014 | 145,316 | 9,944[121] | 10,261 | 4,373 | ||
| 2015 | 147,133 | 13,335[122] | 16,326 | 3,925 | 203,518[123] | |
| 2016 | 145,768 | 12,672 | 4,715 | 13,599 | 2,359 | 195,802[124] |
| 2017 | 115,712 | 11,691 | 8,161 | 12,437 | 3,009 | |
| 2018 | 104,709 | 11,029 | 9,132[125] | 11,214 | 2,406 | |
| 2019 | 98,033 | 11,868 | 10,226[126] | 5,122 | 5,564 | |
| 2020 | 71,862 | 8,144 | 5,236[127] | 8,038 | 1,264 | |
| 2021 | 75,126 | 7,344 | 4,560[128] | 8,144 | 165 | |
| 2022 | 57,820 | 4,030[129] | 4,822 | |||
| 2023 | 61,263 | 2,619[130] | 1,887 | |||
| 2024 | 52,397 | 1,132 | 1,056 |
The Soul has been criticized for a plasticky interior and a harsh ride on less-than-perfect surfaces.
Media related toKia Soul at Wikimedia CommonsAn affiliate ofHyundai Motor Company | |||||||||||
| Parent | |||||||||||
| Subsidiaries and divisions | |||||||||||
| Current models |
| ||||||||||
| Future models | |||||||||||
| Discontinued models | |||||||||||
| Concepts and prototypes |
| ||||||||||
| Platforms | |||||||||||
| Others | |||||||||||
