2014 Kia Soul – Video Review

When the paint color is called Alien 2 and the big option group named ‘The Whole Shabang Package’ it’s readily apparent that automotive whimsy awaits you.  But don’t mistake the fun for frivolity, because the Soul’s second act is some serious business. 

Whether it’s the VW Beetle, a MINI or the Soul, when a vehicle’s appearance is particularly unique a redesign can be extremely challenging.  After all, it needs to retain its instantly recognizable status yet continue to evolve.  And this 2014 Kia Soul is very much true to the original.  As a spotting guide for the new model, look to the killer LED headlight treatment with optional HID low beams or from the rear, these circular, bulbous red lenses in the lower fascia.  Longer and wider with more passenger and cargo room this Soul has grown, but its newfound maturity in other areas is the true headline.  The cabin ratchets up its sophistication immensely, with leather seating, eye-catching black and silver trim, a higher quality fit and finish and Kia’s usual pantry of out-of-its-class amenities.  The biggest Soul surprises: when approaching the vehicle with the fob in your pocket, the power folding mirrors automatically come to life, entering at night the LED cabin lighting is bright enough to wake the neighbors and the pulsating, color changing lighted speaker grilles are still here.  There’s also a toasty, heated steering wheel paired with heated front and rear seats.  Look up and you’ll find a mammoth panoramic sunroof and while that’s opening you can play with the expertly crafted UVO system which is easy to use via button, touchscreen or voice control…are you paying attention Honda?  It also packs in UVO eServices which uses your compatible phone to provide OnStar-like features.  And it’s quieter in here than before so you can easily converse with those in the amply sized rear seats without straining.      

Beyond the added refinement of the Soul’s interior is a vehicle that drives with more purpose, including the best steering feel in any Kia I’ve driven in some time.  Excitable power from the 2.0-liter engine and a suspension tuned for more playtime make the Soul a more enjoyable drive, but also one letting you feel just about everything the road has to say.  Hit a rough stretch of pavement and the Soul really lets you know. This top trim Exclaim model comes standard with this upsized, 164-horsepower direct-injected engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission with an active Eco system for times when you’re slogging through traffic.  And Kia’s selectable steering is here too, though I found simply leaving it in normal provides the most natural feel in all situations.  Gas mileage is rated at 23mpg city/31mpg highway and my week returned 24mpg. 

The base model, also available with a stickshift, has pricing that starts at under $16,000, then there’s the Soul Plus and this fully loaded Soul Exclaim with the Sun & Sound and Whole Shabang Packages, costing $26,195.  With its toy car looks and elevated appeal, the Soul is the perfect solution for those who want a car conveying as much personality as they do.