The Kia Soul. It’s a vehicle that often sparks conversation, and for good reason. Approaching the task of writing this Kia Soul Review has been surprisingly straightforward, mainly because the thought of potentially owning one as a daily driver has been bouncing around in my head for a while. Yes, this boxy little wagon has definitely captured my attention.
What initially draws me to the Kia Soul is its undeniably practical nature wrapped in an unconventional package. It’s a compact car that effortlessly navigates crowded city streets and slips into those notoriously tight parking spots. Yet, despite its small footprint, the interior space is unexpectedly generous, offering a level of versatility that’s genuinely impressive.
However, let’s address the elephant in the room – its polarizing aesthetics. For some, the Soul’s quirky, boxy design is part of its charm. For others, including perhaps my more image-conscious self, it’s an acquired taste, maybe even a bit of a hurdle. There, I’ve said it. The Kia Soul isn’t going to win any beauty contests, but does it win in other crucial areas? Let’s delve into a balanced Kia Soul review to uncover the pros and cons of this distinctive vehicle.
A front three-quarter view of a 2021 Kia Soul in white, showcasing its boxy silhouette and distinctive headlights.
Thinking about my younger self, the one who dreamed of sports cars and high-speed adventures, the idea of a Kia Soul as a daily driver might have seemed… underwhelming. But priorities shift, and practicality and reliability climb higher on the list. Perhaps that inner child would be surprised, but the adult in me is seriously considering the Kia Soul.
A close-up image of the Kia Soul’s front grille and headlight, with a hand giving a thumbs-up to emphasize a positive review.
So, let’s dive deeper into this Kia Soul review and explore all the pros and cons that come with this unique vehicle. For years, the idea of replacing my trusty (and incredibly reliable) Honda Fit with a Soul has lingered. The Fit has been a benchmark of practicality and dependability, but as it approaches the end of its road, the Kia Soul stands out as a worthy successor. Until that day comes, let’s thoroughly examine the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide if the Kia Soul is the right choice for you.
Kia Soul: Weighing the Pros
The Kia Soul boasts a range of compelling advantages that make it a strong contender in its class, particularly for those prioritizing practicality and ease of use in a daily driver.
Excellent Daily Driver Ergonomics
One of the most immediately noticeable pros of the Kia Soul is its upright seating position. This design makes ingress and egress incredibly easy. You don’t have to awkwardly stoop or climb down; instead, you can simply slide into the comfortable seats. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or anyone who appreciates a less strenuous entry and exit from their vehicle on a daily basis.
Superior Visibility
Outward visibility is another significant strength in this Kia Soul review. The boxy shape and large windows contribute to fantastic all-around visibility, minimizing blind spots. This is a crucial safety feature, especially in busy urban environments and when navigating heavy traffic. The expansive view makes driving less stressful and enhances overall driver confidence.
Refreshingly Simple and Unfussy
In a world of increasingly complex and tech-laden vehicles, the Kia Soul stands out for its refreshing simplicity. It’s not trying to be a luxury car, and that’s part of its appeal as a daily driver. You don’t have to worry about every little scratch or ding. Its straightforward nature means you can use it without feeling precious, perfect for the everyday wear and tear of life.
Impressive Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is a major highlight in this Kia Soul review. The Soul sips fuel, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and longer trips. Spending less time and money at the gas pump is a significant advantage, especially with fluctuating fuel prices. The efficient engine delivers commendable mileage without sacrificing adequate performance for everyday driving needs.
Adequate Power for Daily Needs
The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides sufficient power for most driving situations. While it’s not going to win any races, it offers more than enough oomph for merging onto highways and navigating city traffic. It’s a balanced powertrain that prioritizes efficiency and usability over outright speed, perfectly aligning with the Soul’s practical nature.
Surprisingly Spacious Cargo Area
Don’t let the Kia Soul’s compact exterior fool you. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo space is remarkably generous. It can easily accommodate a surprising amount of gear, from groceries and luggage to larger items like bicycles (with front wheels removed). This cargo versatility makes the Soul exceptionally practical for a wide range of lifestyles.
Inconspicuous and Understated Styling
For those who prefer to blend into the background, a Kia Soul in a neutral color is about as inconspicuous as it gets. If you’re not a fan of drawing attention, the Soul’s unassuming presence is a definite plus. It’s a car that prioritizes function over flash, which appeals to many drivers.
Easy Maintenance and Servicing
The Kia Soul’s relatively simple engineering translates to ease of maintenance and servicing. Parts are readily available, and most mechanics are familiar with working on this type of vehicle. This accessibility to service can translate to lower maintenance costs and less downtime, adding to the overall practicality and appeal of the Soul as a reliable daily driver.
A driver’s perspective from inside a Kia Soul, highlighting the expansive windshield and clear visibility of the road and surroundings.
The interior of the Kia Soul, while perhaps not luxurious, is designed with functionality in mind. And as shown above, the excellent visibility from within the Soul is a major plus, particularly in busy traffic conditions.
A fuel gauge showing a full tank in a Kia Soul, emphasizing its excellent gas mileage and fuel efficiency.
The Kia Soul’s fuel efficiency is truly commendable. Its ability to go further on less fuel is a significant advantage for budget-conscious drivers.
An open hood showcasing the engine compartment of a Kia Soul, illustrating the accessible and straightforward engine design.
Under the hood, the Kia Soul features a dependable and easy-to-service engine, contributing to its reputation for reliability and low maintenance.
Kia Soul: Acknowledging the Cons
Despite its numerous advantages, this Kia Soul review wouldn’t be complete without addressing the downsides. Like any vehicle, the Soul has its drawbacks, some of which might be deal-breakers for certain buyers.
Budget-Oriented Interior Feel
One of the most common criticisms of the Kia Soul is the perceived cheapness of the interior materials. While this is somewhat expected in a vehicle in this price range, the interior can feel a bit basic and less refined compared to some competitors. While functionality is prioritized, the aesthetic and tactile quality of the interior plastics and trim can leave something to be desired. The Kia Forte, for example, demonstrates that Kia can achieve a more upscale interior feel even in affordable models, raising expectations for the Soul.
Subpar Stock Audio System
For audiophiles, the standard audio system in the Kia Soul can be disappointing. Many reviewers and owners find the sound quality to be lackluster, even inferior to audio systems in older, comparable vehicles. If a high-quality sound system is a priority, upgrading the audio setup might be necessary.
Dated Infotainment Technology
The infotainment system in the Kia Soul has often been described as lagging behind the competition. Bluetooth connectivity can be inconsistent, and the screen size and display quality may appear smaller and less vibrant compared to newer systems in rival vehicles. While functional, the infotainment system doesn’t offer the cutting-edge technology and seamless user experience found in some other cars.
Lack of Lumbar Support in Front Seats
Comfort on longer drives can be compromised by the front seats’ lack of lumbar support. Some drivers, particularly those with back issues, may find the seats uncomfortable, even on relatively short journeys. This deficiency in lumbar support is a notable drawback for those who prioritize driving comfort.
Limited Secure Storage
The Kia Soul lacks lockable storage compartments, which can be a concern for security-conscious owners. The tinted rear windows offer some privacy, but they don’t provide the same level of security as a lockable glove compartment or center console. For those who regularly carry valuables, this lack of secure storage is a point to consider.
Potentially Problematic Dark Window Tint at Night
While the deep window tint in the rear provides daytime privacy, it can become a visibility issue at night. Drivers who already have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions might find the dark tint exacerbates the problem, especially when reversing or navigating poorly lit areas.
Polarizing Exterior Styling
The Kia Soul’s distinctive boxy design, while loved by some, is undeniably polarizing. For those who prefer more conventional or traditionally stylish vehicles, the Soul’s unconventional looks can be a major turn-off. Its box-on-wheels aesthetic isn’t universally appealing and can be a significant factor for buyers concerned about vehicle appearance.
Narrow Windows Can Impede Visibility for Taller Drivers
While overall visibility is good, the narrow side windows can pose a problem for taller drivers. Even drivers of average height may find themselves needing to duck their heads to see traffic signals at certain angles. This design quirk can be an annoyance and potentially compromise visibility in specific situations for taller individuals.
A rear view of a 2021 Kia Soul, focusing on its unique vertical taillight design that extends upwards along the rear window.
The taillights are often cited as a particularly unusual design element of the Kia Soul, contributing to its overall polarizing aesthetic.
An interior shot of a Kia Soul, showcasing the dashboard and center console design, highlighting the use of plastic materials and functional layout.
The interior styling, while functional, can feel dated to some, with noticeable use of plastic materials typical of budget-conscious vehicles.
Compelling Reasons to Consider Buying a Kia Soul
Despite the noted cons, the Kia Soul presents some very strong arguments in its favor, making it a compelling choice for a significant segment of car buyers. For many, the pros significantly outweigh the cons.
1. Unmatched Practicality in its Class
The Kia Soul excels in practicality, arguably making it one of the most practical vehicles in its segment. Drawing a parallel to the incredibly practical Honda Fit, the Soul mirrors and perhaps even surpasses that level of usability. Its ease of entry and exit, combined with a deceptively spacious interior, makes it exceptionally user-friendly for daily life. The excellent fuel economy, all-around visibility, and understated presence further enhance its practical appeal. It’s a vehicle designed for real-world usability and convenience.
An image of the Kia Soul’s open rear hatch, displaying the generous cargo space and practical loading area.
The ample cargo space in the Kia Soul’s rear hatch area is a testament to its practical design, offering surprising versatility for its compact size.
2. Kia’s Reputation for Reliability
Kia has made significant strides in vehicle reliability, shaking off outdated perceptions of past shortcomings. Modern Kias, including the Soul, are known for their dependability and robust build quality. Choosing a Kia Soul as a daily driver means choosing a vehicle you can rely on, day in and day out, without constant worry about breakdowns or mechanical issues. This reliability is a crucial factor for peace of mind and long-term ownership satisfaction.
A Kia Soul driving on a scenic road, suggesting its reliability and suitability for various driving conditions.
The Kia Soul’s reliability inspires confidence, making it a vehicle you can trust for everyday commutes and spontaneous adventures alike.
Reasons Why the Kia Soul Might Not Be Your Best Choice
Despite its strong points, there are valid reasons why the Kia Soul might not be the ideal vehicle for everyone. These drawbacks, while not universally applicable, are worth considering depending on individual preferences and priorities.
1. Aesthetics Can Be a Major Hurdle
Let’s be frank: the Kia Soul’s styling is not for everyone. While subjective, its boxy and arguably less conventionally attractive design can be a significant deterrent. It lacks a certain masculine or sporty appeal, and its road presence is minimal. For those who prioritize vehicle aesthetics and image, the Soul’s looks might be too much of a compromise, regardless of its practical merits. Be prepared for potential jokes or raised eyebrows, especially from those who favor more traditional vehicle styles.
A side profile of a 2021 Kia Soul, highlighting its boxy shape and unique window line, which contribute to its distinctive but polarizing design.
From certain angles, the Kia Soul can appear more palatable, but its overall boxy silhouette remains a defining and potentially divisive design feature.
2. Questionable Long-Term Build Quality
While Kia reliability is generally strong, concerns about long-term build quality, particularly regarding interior trim and materials, do surface in Kia Soul reviews. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some Souls may develop rattles and squeaks in the interior as mileage accumulates. While mechanical reliability might be solid, the longevity of interior components could be a concern. This is typical of budget-friendly cars, but it’s a factor to consider for those planning to keep their vehicle for many years.
A rear-end view of a Kia Soul parked on the side of a road, subtly hinting at potential build quality concerns with a slightly humorous caption.
While the Kia Soul is dependable, potential long-term build quality issues, such as interior rattles, are worth considering, particularly for those sensitive to cabin noise.
Final Verdict: Is the Kia Soul Right for You?
In conclusion of this Kia Soul review, the Soul presents a compelling package for those prioritizing practicality, reliability, and value. Its strengths in usability, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness are undeniable. However, potential buyers need to weigh these advantages against its less inspiring interior, polarizing styling, and potential long-term build quality concerns.
Ultimately, the Kia Soul is an excellent choice for those who value function over form and seek a dependable and versatile daily driver without breaking the bank. If you can look past its unconventional aesthetics and are willing to accept a budget-oriented interior, the Kia Soul offers a uniquely practical and surprisingly rewarding ownership experience. It’s a car that grows on you with its everyday competence and no-nonsense approach to transportation.
