By Autoreviewman
The funky looking Kia Soul hatchback has been wildly successful in Canada, shifting some 90,000 units since its introduction in 2009. The unique, tall, boxy profile, steep vertical rear and sharp side profile still look good, years after its introduction. Kia have very carefully updated, refined and improved the original clever design, but still retained its original endearing, cheeky character, and versatile interior. The Soul continues to offer superb value for money.
The 2019 Kia Soul is available in a range of trim levels: base, LX, EX and EX+. Premium, EX Tech, and SX Turbo. The Soul Turbo as tested is powered by: a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (201 hp, 195 lb-ft), teamed with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission: larger wheels, upgraded exterior trim upgraded gauges and interior trim, a mix of cloth and leather seat upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and keyless ignition. In terms of safety: Lane departure and blind-spot warning systems, are available on higher models bundled with adaptive cruise control and a forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking system.
You sit taller in the Soul than in a car, and gain great road visibility. The large windows, high roof, and optional panoramic sunroof also enhances the sense of light and space. I like the dash with its easy to use primary controls that are logically placed. Kia ‘s optional Uvo3 touchscreen interface, not only looks good, it responds to command quickly, and is easy to use, with access to features such as; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The rear seats are especially roomy, with the easy exit/ingress, and plenty of head- and legroom for taller passengers. The trunk offers 532 litres of cargo volume with rear seats up and 1,402 litres with split-folding rear seat folded down. A low rear loading sill and the light easy to lift rear hatch, are advantages.
On the road, the turbo engine makes big difference to the Kia Soul’s performance. Off the line acceleration is quick, the turbo spools up quickly with little lag, adding some spice to the Soul’s perkiness. The steering feels good and is well weighted,
The turbo delivers 9.1/7/7 city/highway (L/100km) fuel economy. Much to recommend in the Kia Soul. Arrives very well equipped. Even the full loaded higher trim models don’t break $$27.000. So its bargain no matter which model you buy. Fantastic value for money, and comes highly recommended.
2019 Kia Soul Base priced from $20,095 – $26,095
Kia SX Turbo Price as tested: $26,095
More info at www.kia.ca
