Kia Soul

Overview: Is the Kia Soul a Good Car?

The Kia Soul, a distinctive and practical subcompact SUV, has been a Kia fan favorite since its introduction for the 2010 model year. With its boxy design, spacious interior, and affordable pricing, the Soul has consistently offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a versatile and efficient vehicle. On the used car front, the Kia Soul competes with the Nissan Cube and Scion xB, vehicles that are no longer in production.

This overview covers the three generations of the Kia Soul:

• Kia Soul first generation: 2010–2013
• Kia Soul second generation: 2014–2019
• Kia Soul third generation: 2020–present

Throughout these generations, the Soul has evolved to offer more features, improved performance, and enhanced style while maintaining its core appeal. An all-electric Kia Soul EV was sold for several years, but that’s a unique model covered separately.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Kia Soul cars for sale.

Find a used Kia Soul near me.

Related: Here Are The Kia Soul Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Kia Soul offers:

• Subcompact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Efficient powertrain options, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines
• Front-wheel drive
• Available advanced driver assistance and safety features (depending on the generation and trim)

Trims

Kia Soul trim levels have varied across generations but typically include the base LX, S, EX, and GT-Line. Some generations have also offered the X-Line and EX Designer Collection trims. Higher trims provide additional features, more powerful engines, and distinct styling elements.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Kia Soul's cabin is designed around comfort and versatility. Its tall roof and wide stance provide generous headroom and legroom for passengers, while the boxy shape allows for a surprisingly spacious cargo area. The current generation offers 24.2 cubic feet behind the second row, which expands to 62.1 cubic feet when the back seats are folded. Over the years, the Soul has provided a range of amenities, such as heated front seats, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. The infotainment system has evolved to include larger touchscreens, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available navigation.

Review: How Long Do Kia Souls Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

How It Drives

Thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering, the Kia Soul delivers a comfortable and confident driving experience. The available engines, ranging from efficient naturally aspirated units to peppy turbocharged options, provide adequate power for daily driving. While the Soul may not be the most engaging vehicle in its class, its compact dimensions and easy maneuverability make it well-suited for parking garages and city streets.

Safety

The Kia Soul has generally performed well in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) assessments, earning 4-star and 5-star overall crash test ratings across multiple generations.

Reviews

Kia Soul reviews on Kelley Blue Book are consistently positive, with average ratings ranging from 4.2 to 4.5 out of 5 across the three generations. Owners praise the Soul’s reliability, quality, value, and comfort.

Learn More: Kia Soul Transmission Problems

Kia Soul FAQs

Is the Kia Soul a good car?

Yes, the Kia Soul is a good car for buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and stylish subcompact SUV. Its unique design, spacious interior, and affordable pricing make it an attractive choice in its segment.

Why are Kia Souls so popular?

Kia Souls are popular due to their practicality, affordability, and distinctive style. The Soul's boxy design allows for a spacious interior and ample cargo room, while its efficient powertrains and competitive pricing make it an excellent value proposition.

Is Kia discontinuing the Kia Soul?

No, Kia is not discontinuing the Kia Soul. The Soul remains a vital part of Kia's lineup and continues to be a popular choice among buyers in the subcompact SUV segment.

Is the Kia Soul AWD?

No. The Kia Soul has always been a front-wheel-drive-only vehicle.

What is the Kia Soul price?

A new Kia Soul starts at around $20,000. According to CoPilot’s marketplace information, a used Kia Soul sells for $2,000 to $27,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Does the Kia Soul last long?

With proper care, a Kia Soul can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles. The longevity of any vehicle depends on driving habits, climate, and following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.

Check out a used Kia Soul for sale.