2018 Kia Soul

Overview

There’s no hiding when you’re driving a Kia Soul with its expressive styling. That's what attracts most shoppers to the showroom. But its unexpected refinement and available high-tech features are the real reasons to buy. Its boxy body provides a spacious passenger compartment, and although cargo space could be better, it’s still quite practical and offers plenty of cubbies to stash smaller items throughout the cabin. The Soul is undeniably cool and aptly named. Its playful driving dynamics and powerful optional turbo engine sealed the deal for us—the Soul was named to our 10Best Trucks and SUVs list for 2017.

What's New for 2018?

Only a few changes were made to the Soul for 2018. The base Soul’s Convenience package now gets the latest Kia UVO infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus automatic climate control. Midrange Soul Plus models now get the upgraded UVO system as standard. There's also a Plus Primo package, to be replaced by a Primo Lit package, both of which include a host of comfort, convenience, and active safety features. Finally, a new color joins the palette: Wild Orange.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• Base: $17,095
• Plus: $21,295
  
• Exclaim: $23,795

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Soul’s three powertrain options offer a range of performance, but they’re all nearly equally fuel efficient. The unimpressive base 1.6-liter four-cylinder makes 131 hp and can be paired with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder of the mid-range Plus ("+") model makes 161 horsepower, and it’s matched up to the six-speed automatic. The Exclaim ("!") features the new turbocharged 1.6-liter four and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. With 201 hp on tap, it’s downright quick, and a heavy-throttle start will easily spin the front wheels. The turbocharged engine is the preferred choice: It adds a big dose of fun, and it helps the Soul outrun its rivals by a wide margin. All trims benefit from a refined suspension that soaks up bumps easily yet can play on a curvy back road. The steering is light and agreeable, which makes the Soul an easy daily companion.

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Soul's roomy interior is well equipped, handsome, comfortable, and practical. It's equal parts whimsy and class with a dashboard that features soft-touch plastics with leather-grain detail and a faux-leather cover over the instrument panel. A tachometer and speedometer flank a 4.3-inch digital screen that can be configured to display a variety of information. Rear-seat comfort is almost as good as the front seat; both rows provide plush cushioning and trendy fabrics. The Soul is less accommodating of cargo than larger rivals or those with clever packaging, but it wins the small-item storage award, and its folding rear seats are easy to configure.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Soul boasts a load of appealing tech features, but mostly as optional extras that add up quickly. The base model comes with a 5.0-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and USB and auxiliary ports. Higher trims and extra-cost packages add such features as a 7.0- or 8.0-inch touchscreen, navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Kia UVO infotainment system is simple to operate, intuitive, and decently responsive, which helps justify its extra cost.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

For more information about the Kia Soul’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.