The Kia Soul is a compact crossover produced by the South Korean automaker Kia. Originally inspired by the 2004 Soul Concept, the vehicle stands out with its distinctive boxy design, characterized by sharp lines and bold contours. Although often referred to as a minivan, the Soul shares its platform with the Kia Rio and Hyundai i20, positioning it more accurately within the compact crossover segment.
The unique styling of the Kia Soul was influenced by the tastes of American youth, particularly those drawn to the quirky design of the Scion xB. Its resemblance to Japanese kei cars further enhances its appeal. Thanks to a successful marketing campaign, the Soul quickly gained popularity in the United States before making its way to European markets.
While the exterior design is unconventional, the mechanical components are familiar, borrowed from other Kia models. The Soul is available with two 1.6-litre engines: a petrol version producing 124 hp and a diesel variant delivering 128 hp, the latter featuring Common Rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger (VTG). In 2011, the model received a facelift that included technical upgrades. The petrol engine was enhanced with GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) technology, boosting output to 140 hp. Additionally, the transmission was updated with a six-speed gearbox, and the interior saw improvements in material quality and color options.
The standard tyre size for the Kia Soul is 195/65 R15. Optional tyre sizes include 205/55 R16 and 225/45 R18, offering drivers more flexibility in performance and style.