2021 Kia Soul

2021 Kia Soul Highlights

The 2021 Kia Soul stands out in the subcompact SUV segment with its distinctive boxy design and versatile interior. This model year brings subtle updates to enhance safety and performance across the lineup.

Key Details

• Subcompact crossover body style
• Two-row, five-passenger body style
• 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
• Front-wheel drive (FWD) only
• Rear occupant alert is standard on all trims
• Improved suspension for X-Line and GT-Line models
• Remote start function added to EX and Turbo trims

Benefits

• Unique styling that stands out from other subcompact SUVs
• Spacious interior with ample headroom and cargo space
• User-friendly technology features
• Competitive pricing within its segment
• Available turbocharged engine for enhanced performance

Related: Kia Soul Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

2021 Kia Soul Overview

Performance

The 2021 Kia Soul offers two engine options:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine:

• 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque
• Available with a six-speed manual transmission (LX trim only) or continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Standard on LX, S, X-Line, GT-Line, and EX trims

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:

• 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
• Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
• Standard on Turbo trim

The base 2.0-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving, while the turbocharged option offers more spirited performance. The Soul's compact dimensions and tight turning radius make it well-suited for urban settings, where its maneuverability shines in tight parking spaces and congested streets.

For 2021, the X-Line and GT-Line trims receive a suspension upgrade to enhance handling and ride quality.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Soul a four-star (out of five) overall safety rating.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2021 Soul a Top Safety Pick, the group’s second-highest designation, when equipped with front crash prevention and upgraded headlights.

Standard safety features across all 2021 Kia Soul trims include:

• Rear occupant alert (new for 2021)
• Dual front advanced airbags
• Dual front seat-mounted side airbags
• Full-length side curtain airbags
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Vehicle stability management (VSM)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Traction control system (TCS)
• Hill-start assist control (HAC)

Higher trims offer additional advanced safety features such as:

• Forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
• Lane-keeping assist
• blind-spot collision warning
• rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist
• driver attention warning

Driving

The 2021 Kia Soul offers a driving experience that balances comfort with a touch of sportiness. Its boxy shape and upright seating position provide excellent visibility, enhancing driver confidence in various situations.

The base 2.0-liter engine, paired with either the six-speed manual or IVT, delivers adequate performance for daily driving. The IVT (Kia's version of a continuously variable transmission) provides smooth power delivery and helps optimize fuel efficiency.

The Turbo trim's 1.6-liter turbocharged engine offers significantly more power for those seeking more performance. This model's seven-speed dual-clutch transmission provides quick shifts, creating a more engaging driving experience.

Interior

The 2021 Kia Soul interior is where its boxy design pays off, offering a spacious and versatile cabin that feels larger than the vehicle's exterior dimensions might suggest. The tall roofline provides ample headroom for front and rear passengers, while the upright seating position offers a commanding view of the road.

2021 Kia Soul interior features include:

• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Available 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support
• Available heated front seats and steering wheel
• Dual-level cargo floor
• Available dual-zone automatic climate control

The Soul's cargo area is notable for its class. It offers 24.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which expands to 62.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The overall interior design is modern and functional, with controls logically laid out and easily accessible to the driver. The available 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is well-integrated into the dashboard, contributing to a clean and contemporary look.

Technology

The 2021 Kia Soul comes well-equipped with modern technology features, including:

• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (standard on LX)
• Available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available wireless smartphone charging
• Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
• Available head-up display (HUD)

New for 2021, the EX and Turbo trims now include a key fob-based remote start function.

Fuel Economy

The 2021 Kia Soul offers competitive fuel economy ratings for its class. According to the EPA, the Soul achieves the following fuel economy estimates:

2.0-liter engine with manual transmission:

• FWD/Manual (mpg): 25 city / 31 highway / 27 combined
• FWD/CVT (mpg): 28 city / 33 highway / 30 combined

1.6-liter turbocharged engine:

• FWD/Automatic (mpg): 27 city / 32 highway / 29 combined

2021 Kia Soul FAQs

Is the 2021 Kia Soul a reliable car?

The 2021 Kia Soul is generally considered a reliable vehicle. J.D. Power gave it a predicted reliability score of 88 out of 100, considered "Great." However, as with any vehicle, long-term reliability can vary based on maintenance, driving habits, and individual manufacturing variations.

What is the engine failure of the 2021 Kia Soul?

Kia recalled almost 150,000 Soul and Seltos vehicles with the 2.0-liter engine from 2020-2021 due to improperly heat-treated piston oil rings. These rings may damage the engine, leading to stalling or oil leaks that increase crash and fire risks. The company will inspect and replace engines if necessary and install software to detect piston ring noise. The recall status for any vehicle can be checked at the NHTSA website.

What should I pay for a 2021 Kia Soul?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2021 Kia Soul costs $10,000 to $23,000, depending on condition, mileage, equipment, and marketplace conditions.

How long will a 2021 Kia Soul last?

A 2021 Kia Soul can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and care. Many owners report their Souls lasting well beyond 150,000 miles with regular maintenance. However, the actual lifespan of any vehicle depends on several factors:

• Maintenance
• Driving conditions
• Climate
• Driving habits

Check Out: Are Kia Souls Good Cars?