Kia Soul (2014 – 2018) Review
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Kia Soul (2014 – 2018) Verdict
Practical family car. High quality and attractive cabin. Easy to drive. Practical and reasonably spacious. Steers and handles decently on 17-inch wheels. Outstandingly reliable.
Looks aren't universally popular. Emissions and economy far from best in class. 18-inch wheels wreck the ride.
Find out more about the Kia Soul (2014 – 2018)
While this second generation Kia Soul may look similar to the original model, it’s actually much improved under the skin with significantly better steering, ride and handling. It's also more than just style over substance. Get past the rather quirky and boxy appearance and you'll find a family car that is impressively refined with a very practical and upmarket cabin.
The Soul is easily big enough for a family of five and features good quality materials along with a stylish dashboard layout. Standard equipment levels are generous and all cars get DAB radio and air conditioning. There are plenty of customisation options too, with colour contrasting roof choices and a broad selection of alloy wheel designs.
Thanks to the tall, upright cabin there is a huge amount of headroom even for taller passengers, plus it’s very easy to get in and out of from both the front and back rows of seats. Unfortunately the generous passenger compartment means the boot space suffers a little - but it’s still a reasonable size and more than adequate for everyday use.
There are two engines - a 1.6-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre diesel, the latter of which is available with a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The diesel offers lower running costs thanks to its economy of 58.9mpg and 125g/km CO2 emissions. It also offers a decent amount of torque so it's the best one to go for unless you’re a low mileage driver. That said, it lags behind some key rivals when it comes to economy and emissions – the Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008 and Skoda Yeti are better on this front.
If you are a keen driver, you will also find the Yeti better to drive on a winding road. There is still a lot to like about the Soul, though. It's reasonably well priced, well equipped, impressively built and offers more cabin space than the usual small crossover model.
Reviews for Kia Soul (2014 – 2018)'s top 3 rivals
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Kia Soul (2014 – 2018) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.6 CRDi Automatic to 1.6T GDi Automatic
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 30–54 mpg
Beneath the tall and boxy exterior styling, the Soul is based on the same platform as the Kia Cee’d. That’s good news as it means the Soul is far more competent than its predecessor, with better road holding and improved ride quality.
The engine range is simple, with a choice of two 1.6-litre engines – one petrol and one diesel. The petrol engine produces 132PS and 161Nm of torque, which makes for a 0-62mph sprint time of 11 seconds. That’s a little swifter than the 11.2 seconds of the 128PS diesel engine, but the diesel has more torque at 260Nm, making it more flexible and useable out of town.
Whichever engine you go for, you’ll get a smooth six-speed manual transmission as standard. It’s a very easy gearbox to get along with thanks to a light change action. If you need an automatic transmission then you’ll have to go for the diesel, which is offered with an impressive six-speed dual clutch gearbox.
The Soul is a relaxed car on the road, riding over rippled and rough road surfaces comfortably. There’s not much noise from the suspension most of the time – but larger wheels do have an adverse effect on ride quality, particularly on poor roads with noticeable thumping over cracks and potholes.
The steering settings can be changed between normal, sport and eco modes, but the standard setting is good enough with a nicely weighted and accurate feel. Corners can be taken with confidence, but the car does feel a little out of its comfort zone on a twisting route with lots of sudden direction changes. This is made worse by the seats which although very comfortable, don’t offer much in the way of lateral support.
It’s good news for those who drive in town or on the motorway though, where you don't feel hemmed in by bulky side bolsters. Kia has worked hard to improve refinement over the previous generation Soul and it really shows – there is barely any wind, road or engine noise until you get up to around 70mph, at which point only wind noise becomes noticeable, but unobtrusive.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 CRDi | 47–59 mpg | 10.8–11.8 s | 128–158 g/km |
| 1.6 CRDi Automatic | 47–57 mpg | 10.7–11.8 s | 135–158 g/km |
| 1.6 GDi | 39–44 mpg | 10.6 s | 153–170 g/km |
| 1.6T GDi Automatic | 41 mpg | - | 156 g/km |
| Electric | - | 10.8 s | - |
Real MPG average for the Kia Soul (2014 – 2018)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
83%
Real MPG
30–54 mpg
MPGs submitted
70
Kia Soul (2014 – 2018) interior
- Boot space is 354–994 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of four stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4140 mm |
| Width | 1800–1831 mm |
| Height | 1593–1606 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm |
The upright SUV-styling of the exterior gives the Soul an impressively spacious interior, with easily enough space for a family of five. Headroom and legroom are excellent in both the front and back rows. That does, however, have an effect the amount of rear loadspace, but at 351 litres it’s still a good size, plus it can be expanded to 1367 litres by folding the rear seats.
The load area is a good shape with a very wide opening and an almost flat load deck, plus there's an underfloor storage area for keeping odds and ends. The load lip is quite high which is hard work if you have to lift heavy items in and out. It will also pose problems for dog owners with older or smaller dogs.
On the plus side, compared to the old Soul the interior is a much more upmarket and inviting place, with a stylish layout and good quality materials, including a generous helping of soft-touch plastic on the door tops and dashboard.
Kia has added some unique touches too, like tweeter speakers integrated within the air vents. The interior colours are designed to complement the exterior finish, so you’ll get a brown dashboard if you pick the coffee-brown exterior paintwork. You also get illuminated speaker surrounds if you go for a model with the excellent Infinity audio system.
Standard equipment is good with all models getting DAB radio and air conditioning. Moving up to mid-spec models adds some nice extras like alloy wheels, an impressive Infinity audio system and navigation. Options include advanced technologies like lane keep assist and automatic parking, along with a huge panoramic sunroof that makes the cabin feel even more open and airy.
Standard equipment from launch (April 2014):
Start models come with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth upholstery, electric windows, DAB radio and air conditioning.
Connect trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity and a reversing camera.
Connect Plus is as Connect trim, but with the addition of satellite navigation and an Infinity audio system.
Mixx models come with 18-inch alloy wheels, two-tone paintwork and a styling pack.
Maxx models gain leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, push button start and keyless entry.
Kia Soul (2014 – 2018) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4140 mm |
| Width | 1800–1831 mm |
| Height | 1593–1606 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1275–1920 kg |
| Boot Space | 354–994 L |
| Warranty | 7 years / 100000 miles |
| Servicing | 10000–20000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £12,805–£30,495 |
| Insurance Groups | 9–18 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–H |
| Official MPG | 38.7–58.8 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 4 |
On sale until November 2019
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 2 5dr | £18,955 | 58.8 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 2 DCT 5dr | £20,455 | 56.5 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 3 5dr | £21,355 | 58.8 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 3 DCT 5dr | £22,855 | 56.5 mpg | - |
| 1.6 GDI 130bhp 1 5dr | £14,725 | 43.5 mpg | - |
| 1.6 GDI 130bhp 2 5dr | £17,480 | 43.5 mpg | - |
| 1.6 T-GDi 201bhp Sport DCT 5dr | £23,980 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| EV 81.4KW Electric Motor Auto 5dr | £30,495 | - | - |
On sale until July 2017
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| EV 81.4KW Electric Motor Auto 5dr | £29,995 | - | 10.8 s |
On sale until April 2017
On sale until October 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Connect 1.6 CRDi 126 5dr | £16,600 | 56.5 mpg | 10.8 s |
| Connect 1.6 CRDi 126 Auto5dr | £18,100 | 47.1 mpg | 11.8 s |
| Connect Plus 1.6 CRDi 126 5dr | £17,700 | 56.5 mpg | 10.8 s |
| Connect Plus 1.6 CRDi 126 Auto 5dr | £19,200 | 47.1 mpg | 11.8 s |
| Maxx 1.6 CRDi 126 5dr | £21,750 | 56.5 mpg | 10.8 s |
| Maxx 1.6 CRDi 126 Auto 5dr | £23,250 | 47.1 mpg | 11.8 s |
| Maxx 1.6 GDI 130 5dr | £20,150 | 38.7 mpg | 10.6 s |
| Mixx 1.6 CRDi 126 5dr | £19,950 | 56.5 mpg | 10.8 s |
| Mixx 1.6 CRDi 126 Auto 5dr | £21,450 | 47.1 mpg | 11.8 s |
| Mixx 1.6 GDI 130 5dr | £18,350 | 38.7 mpg | 10.6 s |
Model History
- September 2013: New Kia Soul unveiled
- April 2014: Kia Soul launched
- June 2014: Soul EV revealed
- September 2014: Soul Mixx and Maxx launched
- November 2014: Soul EV arrived in UK
- March 2015
- April 2016: Kia Soul Urban launched
- December 2018
- September 2019
September 2013
New Kia Soul unveiled
The biggest technical change for the 2014 Soul is the adoption of an all-new platform, based on that of the latest KIA cee'd. The result is greatly improved ride and handling compared with the outgoing model, as well as more mature and refined on-road behaviour.
The second-generation Soul will also be the best in its class for refinement, a result of the car's upgraded suspension, 29 per cent stiffer bodyshell and comprehensive soundproofing. Interior noise levels are reduced by approximately three decibels.
Subtly larger dimensions also mean the new model offers buyers a more practical proposition, with a longer wheelbase and wider track contributing to greater cabin space and cargo capacity. Leg, head and shoulder room are increased for all passengers, while the cargo area is increased by 4 per cent to 354 litres (plus additional underfloor storage) with the rear seats upright.
Environmental performance for the new model is also improved. Buyers will be able to choose between the latest versions of KIA's 1.6-litre GDi petrol and CRDi diesel engines, as well as six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Both engines are carried over from the outgoing model, and feature improved efficiency with lower emissions.
Promising a more rewarding ownership experience, the 2014 Soul will be available in Europe with a range of new premium features (depending on model), including: front LED daytime running lights and rear LED ‘halo' lights, xenon headlights, keyless entry and push-button engine start, automatic climate control, cruise control, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, panoramic glass sunroof and heated and electrically folding exterior mirrors.
April 2014
Kia Soul launched
Went on sale in the UK at price from £12,600 to £19,000 for the main range and from £18,150 to £21,550 for the high spec Mixx and Maxx versions.
June 2014
Soul EV revealed
Featuring a high-capacity 192-cell 27 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, 212 km of the Soul EV's drive range is now certified for Europe. The Soul EV also employs regenerative braking to capture and recycle into the battery the kinetic energy generated while the car is coasting and braking.
Power comes from an 110PS electric motor, producing a generous and instantly available 285Nm of torque, driving the front wheels via a single speed constant ratio gear reduction unit.
Acceleration to 60 mph takes 11 seconds, while top speed is 90mph. The battery pack is mounted beneath the cabin, ensuring a low centre of gravity and contributing to the car's accomplished ride, handling and refinement.
Charging is accomplished by plugging the Soul EV into any standard household electricity supply. Recharging times are up to five hours for a fully depleted battery using a 6.6 kW AC slow charger. An 80 per cent charge can be achieved in as little as 25 minutes with a 100 kW charger (if available) or 33 minutes using a 50 kW DC charger.
September 2014
Soul Mixx and Maxx launched
Come with Infinity Premium sound system, urban styling pack and 18-inch wheels come as standard. The Soul Mixx is priced from £18,150 and the Soul Maxx from £19,950.
KIA Soul Mixx has 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 tyres, contrasting colour roof and door mirror pods, high-gloss black bumpers, chrome exterior door handles, LED rear combination lamps, rear privacy and solar glass, cooled glovebox, heated front seats, luggage floor undertray. It is also fitted with the urban styling pack consisting of front, side and rear skirts and a wheel-arch garnish.
KIA Soul Maxx has 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 tyres, leather upholstery, TFT supervision cluster, panoramic sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, smart-entry key and an engine starter button.
November 2014
Soul EV arrived in UK
Priced at £24,995 (assuming Government grant of £5,000). Class-leading range of up to 132 miles. Class-leading energy density of 200 Wh/kg. Innovations that extend the distance the car can travel on a charge. Same seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty.
The charging ports are hidden behind a panel in the blanked off grille. Owners have the option of recharging the batteries from a standard domestic socket, via the KIA-branded wallbox supplied as standard with the Soul EV or at a public fast charger, or through a public rapid charger. Using a UK 230-volt domestic power supply, the Soul EV can be fully recharged in 10 to 13 hours. With the wallbox or at a public fast-charge point, the time is reduced to around five hours. The Soul EV is supplied with a customised red adapter cable stored in a KIA-branded pouch for this form of charging. Alternatively, through a public rapid charger, the batteries can be topped up to 80 per cent of capacity - the maximum permissible with this type of system - in 33 minutes.
March 2015
Kia Soul EV gained Red Dot Award for outstanding design.
April 2016
Kia Soul Urban launched
Starting with two 6-speed manual gearbox versions, one with the 1.6 GDi petrol and the other Kia’s popular 1.6 CRDi diesel engine. An automatic version of the diesel version is also available when twinned with Kia’s new 7-speed auto DCT gearbox.
The exterior styling of the ‘Urban’ features a striking ‘SUV pack’ alongside black high gloss bumpers and rear and side sills, teamed with chrome inserts which adds to the vehicle’s dynamic and premium character. Also added to this trim are electric folding door mirrors with integrated LED indicators, LED rear combination and high level brake lights alongside front daytime running lights and privacy glass. Adding to the convenience of the vehicle, rear parking sensors come as standard on the ‘Urban’ range.
The Soul ‘Urban’ is available in a choice of one solid and three metallic paint exterior colours. Clear White (solid), Caribbean Blue, Inferno Red and Quartz Black. All models ride on the 17” alloy wheels seen on the Connect and Connect Plus models. In addition the Soul ‘Urban’ can be noticed by its unique ‘Urban’ badging neatly positioned on the usual boot literature, in chromed letters.
On the inside the Soul ‘Urban’ features attractive black woven seats with yellow trim alongside generous use of soft touch materials and black high gloss trim giving a contemporary feel. Also included is an AM/FM radio with DAB radio, Bluetooth, USB port and auxiliary socket.
| Variants | CO 2 | OTR Price |
| 1.6 GDi 130bhp 6-speed manual | 153 | £15,500 |
| 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 6-speed manual | 128 | £17,095 |
| 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 7-speed DCT | 135 | £18,595 |
December 2018
3rd generation KIA Soul revealed at Loas Angeles Auto Show. Announcement that in the UK the 3rd gen KIA Soul will be EV only.
September 2019
KIA Soul awarded Best Multimedia Quality in its award segment in the J.D. Power 2019 Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study. The announcement follows KIA’s award as the highest ranked mass market brand in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study for the fifth consecutive year, with the Soul recognized among the top 10 vehicles in the industry.
