The Kia Soul is, let’s face it, a box. But a cute box. Previous incarnations of this crate on wheels where a bit sluggish and somewhat under-powered, however all that has changed for 2012.
With upgraded engines and new transmissions the base model Kia Soul now carries 138 horses under its hood a great improvement from the 122 horses of previous model years. If you make a move to the ! (Exclaim) the horses are increased to 164. This is the model I test drove.
The automatic transmission also helped in the power department increasing from four-speed automatic to six-speed. The new transmission also helps with the gas mileage increasing it from last year’s 24/30 to 26/34.
I think the beauty of the Soul! is its ample interior room. This is one car that can fit four full-sized adults without cramping anything. And because of the tall roofline there is extra headroom so the taller among us won’t feel like they have to duck. And if you have children three fit in the back seat without an argument about who has to sit in the middle.
Of course it has all the blue tooth technology de rigueur these days with optional HD Radio and navigation system. And you’ve just got to love the colored lights around the speakers that pulsate with the music. Also optional is a rearview camera which I feel is a must-have; it just makes life so much simpler. Safety-wise the Soul has the usual safety gear plus a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS.
The Soul is just a fun car, perfect for a family that needs a bit extra room without moving up to a cross-over or SUV. Fuel efficient with plenty of vroom and priced right at $20,350.00 for the top-spec model. What more could you want?
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