The Kia Soul has established itself as one of the most recognizable vehicles in the compact car market. Known for its boxy design and quirky personality, the Kia Soul offers a unique blend of practicality, affordability, and versatility. Originally launched in 2009, the Soul has undergone several updates, but it remains a popular choice among buyers looking for a spacious and stylish subcompact SUV. Its distinct shape allows for a roomy interior, and it provides features that cater to various lifestyles, from city driving to light outdoor adventures.
While the Kia Soul offers numerous benefits, including a distinctive design, affordability, and practicality, it also has some drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. From concerns about ride quality and performance to questions regarding safety ratings and handling, the Soul, like any car, is not without its limitations.
This article will explore the pros and cons of the Kia Soul, providing an in-depth analysis of its strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re considering purchasing a new or used Kia Soul, this guide will help you better understand the vehicle and decide if it’s the right fit for your driving needs.
Pros Of The Kia Soul
1. Unique And Distinctive Design
The Kia Soul’s standout feature is its unmistakable boxy design. This shape not only sets it apart from other subcompact crossovers but also serves a functional purpose. The high roofline and angular edges provide ample headroom and a spacious cabin feel. The wide stance offers a stable driving experience, and the quirky aesthetic appeals to drivers looking for a vehicle with personality. Unlike many cookie-cutter vehicles, the Soul has a youthful, fun vibe that resonates with a broad demographic, especially those looking for a car that reflects individuality.
2. Spacious Interior Despite Compact Size
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Kia Soul is its ability to maximize interior space despite its compact footprint. The upright design creates a surprisingly roomy cabin, with generous headroom and legroom for passengers in both the front and rear seats. Unlike other subcompact cars that can feel cramped in the back, the Soul ensures that even tall passengers can sit comfortably. The rear cargo space is also sizable for its class, with a wide hatch opening and the ability to fold down the rear seats, making it practical for daily errands and longer trips.
3. Affordable Price Point
Affordability is one of the Kia Soul’s key strengths. Positioned as an economical option within the subcompact SUV market, the Soul provides excellent value for the price. Even at the base trim level, buyers get a decent array of standard features that include technology, comfort, and safety elements. Its price point makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers, including first-time car owners, budget-conscious individuals, and families looking for a secondary vehicle without breaking the bank.
4. Impressive Standard Features At All Levels
Unlike some competitors that offer only basic features at lower trims, the Kia Soul packs a wealth of standard technology and comfort features across its lineup. Even the entry-level models come with a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a rearview camera. Higher trims include premium touches like a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and additional safety tech. This level of inclusivity in features gives the Soul a competitive edge in terms of value for money.
5. Fuel Efficiency That Saves On Costs
In today’s world of fluctuating fuel prices, the Kia Soul offers relief with its solid fuel efficiency. The base 2.0-liter engine delivers excellent gas mileage for both city and highway driving, making it an economical choice for commuters and road trippers alike. While the turbocharged engine in higher trims sacrifices a bit of fuel economy for performance, it still offers respectable efficiency, especially when compared to larger SUVs or more powerful crossovers.
6. User-Friendly Infotainment And Technology
The Kia Soul is equipped with one of the best-in-class infotainment systems. The user interface is intuitive, responsive, and easy to navigate, which adds to the vehicle’s overall appeal. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trims makes it easy for drivers to connect their smartphones for navigation, hands-free calls, and entertainment. The large touchscreen, well-placed buttons, and voice controls make it a tech-savvy car without overwhelming less tech-inclined drivers.
7. Agile Handling In Tight Spaces
For urban dwellers or those who frequently navigate tight parking spaces, the Kia Soul’s compact dimensions and nimble handling are significant advantages. The Soul is easy to maneuver, making it a breeze to park in small spots, squeeze through city traffic, and navigate narrow streets. The responsive steering and light chassis enhance the car’s agility, making it a good option for those who value convenience in their daily commute.
8. Long Warranty Coverage
One of Kia’s standout features is its generous warranty program, and the Soul benefits from this as well. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is among the best in the industry, offering long-term peace of mind to buyers. Additionally, the 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty covers many other components, ensuring that owners have ample coverage should something go wrong. This extended warranty helps boost confidence in the vehicle’s long-term reliability.
9. Flexible Cargo And Storage Solutions
For a compact vehicle, the Kia Soul offers impressive cargo flexibility. The rear seats fold flat, creating a substantial amount of storage space for larger items, and the wide hatch opening allows for easy loading and unloading. There are also under-floor storage compartments and versatile configurations for dividing cargo, making it a practical vehicle for both grocery runs and road trips. Its cargo capabilities are further enhanced by a low liftover height, which simplifies the loading process.
10. Fun And Youthful Character
The Kia Soul exudes a youthful and energetic vibe, which is reflected in its customizable options, vibrant exterior color choices, and funky interior designs. The Soul’s appeal isn’t just functional—it’s also about having a car that fits an adventurous, dynamic lifestyle. From its energetic driving dynamics to its modern aesthetics, the Soul’s fun factor makes it an attractive option for younger drivers or anyone seeking a vehicle with a little more personality than the average crossover.
Cons Of The Kia Soul
1. Lack Of All-Wheel Drive
A significant drawback of the Kia Soul is the absence of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option. This limits the Soul’s appeal for drivers living in areas with harsh winters or those who require better traction for off-road driving. Front-wheel-drive, the standard setup in the Soul, performs well on dry roads, but in snow, rain, or mud, it may struggle compared to competitors offering AWD. Many rivals in the subcompact SUV segment come with AWD, which can be a dealbreaker for buyers prioritizing all-weather capability.
2. Noisy Cabin At Higher Speeds
While the Soul offers a smooth and comfortable ride at lower speeds, the cabin can become noticeably noisy at highway speeds. Road noise and wind noise penetrate the interior more than in some competing vehicles, which may detract from the overall driving experience on long trips. This issue is especially apparent on rough roads, where the lack of sound insulation becomes more noticeable. For those who frequently drive on highways, this could be a point of frustration.
3. Base Engine Lacks Punch
The 2.0-liter engine found in the base Kia Soul models is sufficient for daily driving but lacks the power needed for more aggressive acceleration or overtaking on highways. With 147 horsepower, it can feel sluggish, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers or cargo. Drivers seeking a more spirited driving experience may find this engine underwhelming, particularly when compared to the turbocharged engines offered by some competitors.
4. Ride Quality Over Rough Roads Can Be Stiff
While the Soul handles well in most urban environments, its suspension can feel stiff over rough or uneven roads. The ride quality may not be as cushioned as some drivers expect, leading to a less comfortable experience on pothole-ridden streets or gravel paths. This stiffer suspension setup makes the vehicle feel more like a traditional hatchback than a cushy SUV, which may not suit all buyers.
5. Performance Lags Behind Sportier Rivals
Drivers looking for a sportier, more dynamic ride may be disappointed by the Soul’s performance. While it is agile in the city, the steering lacks precision, and the car doesn’t have the same sporty feel as some of its competitors. For those who enjoy spirited driving or want a more engaging experience behind the wheel, the Soul’s performance may feel lacking compared to sportier crossovers or hatchbacks.
6. Limited Towing Capability
The Kia Soul is not designed for towing, and it lacks the towing capacity that some buyers may need. While it excels at city driving and light road trips, it is not equipped to handle the demands of towing trailers or larger loads. This could be a limitation for drivers looking for a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of outdoor activities involving boats, campers, or cargo trailers.
7. Off-Road Limitations
Due to its low ground clearance and lack of AWD, the Kia Soul is not well-suited for off-road adventures. While it performs admirably on paved roads and light trails, it struggles when faced with rougher terrain, making it a less desirable option for those who enjoy outdoor activities like camping or off-roading. Competing models with better off-road capabilities may be more appealing to adventure enthusiasts.
8. Higher Trims Are Expensive For The Class
While the Kia Soul starts at an affordable price, the cost can rise significantly when opting for higher trims with more advanced features. Fully loaded models with turbocharged engines, premium audio systems, and advanced safety technologies can push the price into a range that competes with more upscale vehicles. For buyers on a strict budget, this higher price point may detract from the Soul’s overall value proposition.
9. Interior Materials Are Lower Quality In Base Trims
Although the Kia Soul offers an attractive and spacious interior, the quality of materials in the base trims leaves something to be desired. Hard plastics and less premium finishes are prevalent in lower-end models, which can detract from the overall feel of the cabin. While the higher trims offer more upscale touches, the base models may not meet the expectations of buyers seeking a more refined interior.
10. Resale Value Depreciation
The Kia Soul, like many other compact cars, tends to depreciate faster than some of its competitors. While it offers great value upfront, its long-term resale value may not hold up as well, particularly when compared to brands with stronger resale reputations. This depreciation could impact buyers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicle after a few years, leading to a lower return on investment.
Conclusion
The Kia Soul is a unique and versatile vehicle that stands out in the subcompact SUV market. With its spacious interior, excellent standard features, affordability, and distinctive design, it appeals to a wide range of drivers. Its user-friendly technology and fuel efficiency make it a practical choice for city driving, while its fun, youthful appeal attracts those looking for a vehicle with personality.
However, the Kia Soul is not without its drawbacks. The lack of all-wheel drive, underpowered base engine, and noisier cabin at higher speeds are factors that potential buyers should consider. Additionally, while it offers great value at lower trims, the price can rise significantly with higher-end models, and its off-road capabilities are limited.
Overall, the pros and cons of the Kia Soul highlight a well-rounded vehicle with a distinctive character. Whether it’s the right car for you depends on your specific needs, driving habits, and preferences. For those seeking a spacious, affordable, and stylish vehicle for everyday use, the Kia Soul offers a compelling option.