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Road Test

The Kia Soul is a compelling alternative to compact sedans and SUVs. It’s small on the outside but feels roomy inside. Its practical, boxy design gives it a cheerful personality.

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New Models Predicted Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Standard
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Optional
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Optional

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Standard
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Optional
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Optional

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Standard
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Optional
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Optional

Small sedans/hatchbacks Ratings

$20,490 - $24,790
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CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$23,800 - $28,600
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CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$20,500 - $24,500
economy-icon
CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$24,250 - $45,895
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CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction

In Test

$28,950 - $33,150
economy-icon
EPA MPG 49 mpg
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    wagon
Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
Front
Engines Available
  • 2-liter 4 (147 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • CVT
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle
  • Basic 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Drivetrain 10 years/100,000 miles
  • Corrosion 5 years/100,000 miles
  • Roadside Aid 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Maintenance NA
Model History
2020-
Current Generation

The redesigned 2020 Kia Soul possesses a blend of personality and versatility with its familiar boxy shape and cheerful character. The Soul has a continuously variable transmission that contributes to good fuel economy. Handling is quite nimble. But the ride is notably stiff, and engine noise is rather pronounced. Easy access and good visibility continue to be strengths. The EX comes with a power driver's seat, which has more range of adjustments. Controls are easy to use, including the optional 10.25-inch center touch screen. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are standard. Advanced safety and driver assistance features are standard on most trims, but none were available on the base LX trim until the 2023 model year when FCW and AEB with pedestrian detection became standard on all trims. Updates for 2021 include a standard rear seat reminder system for all trim lines.

2014-2019
2014 Redesign Year
While this version of the Soul is a more mature and well-rounded package than its predecessor, the big draw continues to be Kia's long list of available features. Our loaded midtrim + (Plus) version included push-button start, an automatic climate system, a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a backup camera and a touchscreen navigation system. While the base Soul is a great deal if you can live with the less powerful engine, we'd go for the + trim, which gets the larger engine and automatic transmission. The 2016 models include forward-collision and lane-departure warning systems as optional equipment.
2010-2013
2010 Redesign Year
With one of the most efficient shapes on the road, the tall and boxy Kia Soul packs a lot of room and equipment into a small, inexpensive car. It has very easy access, abundant headroom, and a surprisingly spacious rear seat. Expect a noisy interior and a stiff ride, but handling is fairly nimble and secure. While the controls are simple, interior fit and finish are basic. Still, amenities abound and electronic stability control is standard. Large windows allow very good front and side visibility, but thick rear roof pillars create rear blind zones. A six-speed automatic transmission debuted for 2012, which boosted gas mileage from 25 to 26 mpg.