If you choose the Kia Soul Plus, you’ll discover that its fuel efficiency rating is comparable to that of the standard trim. However, its 2.0L four-cylinder engine, which generates 161 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, goes above and beyond in providing drivers with a greater performance. 1.6L four-cylinder engine; Kia Soul base.
In This Article...
What distinguishes a Kia Soul from a Kia Soul Plus?
The base Soul engine achieves the best fuel economy in the lineup when paired with the automatic transmission, clocking in at 26 city/31 highway mpg. With a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 161 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, the Kia Soul+ has more power to offer.
What Kia Soul models are available?
Six trim levels are available for the 2022 Kia Soul: LX, S, GT-Line, X-Line, EX, and Turbo. We advise upgrading to the S trim. The S trim offers an abundance of safety features in addition to the base LX’s strong list of infotainment and comfort options.
What Kia Soul model is the most expensive?
One of Kia’s best-selling cars on the market is the Soul. The versatility and value the 2021 Kia Soul offers set it apart from its rivals. Which trim level of the 2019 Kia Soul is best for you will depend on your needs and preferences. We shall examine the Kia Soul’s trim levels in this article.
There are 6 different trim levels for the Kia Soul. You should investigate the many options before making a purchase decision because each trim level has something special to offer.
Kia Soul LX
MSRP starting at: $17,590 The LX trim is the Kia Soul’s entry-level model. While “basic trim” typically denotes a lack of technology, the Soul is an exception. The LX comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Additionally, you will receive the 2.0L DOHC In-line 4-cylinder engine that is standard on all grades other than the Turbo. With an MSRP well around $20,000, the Kia Soul LX offers exceptional value all things considered.
Kia Soul S
MSRP beginning at $20,690 The Kia Soul S follows. With this trim level, you also receive alloy wheels and side mirrors that match the body color. Additionally, you will receive a few items that are only available as upgrades on the LX trim, such as remote keyless entry, select drive modes, and controls positioned on the steering wheel. In addition, you’ll have Power Front Seating in place of Manual Front Seats and Premium Tricot Cloth Seats.
Kia Soul GT-Line
MSRP starting at: $21,790 The GT-Line trim is the following tier of options. Additionally, this trim receives exterior improvements like a front grille with a hot stamping design and a distinctive GT-Line exterior appearance. Power sunroof and 18 Alloy Wheels are additional standard features on the GT-Line. Additionally, the front console has USB charging outlets, and the cargo area has a 12-volt charger.
Kia Soul X-Line
MSRP starting at: $21,790 The X-Line trim level comes next. The Kia Soul X-Line receives a customized exterior package that includes a special body kit, roof rails, unique alloy wheels, and silver exterior power mirrors. In addition to being cosmetic packages, the GT-Line and X-Line trim levels each offer additional optional enhancements not included in lesser trim levels.
Kia Soul EX
MSRP starting at: $23,350 The Kia Soul EX trim has the lowest engine and is the highest level trim. The power sunroof, alloy wheels, premium tires, and other goodies are all included in this trim. You’ll get the unique 10.25 Color Touch Screen with Navigation, SiriusXM, and HD Radio on the inside. The technological features available on this trim include Smart Key Push-Button Start/Stop, Wireless Phone Charger, and Additional USB Ports. The EX offers amazing luxury at a cost of just $23,350.
Kia Soul Turbo
MSRP starting at $27,650 The Kia Soul Turbo is the top trim level. The 1.6L DOHC 4-Cylinder Turbocharged engine is the biggest improvement. This releases an improvement. The base engine choice has 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque as opposed to 201 hp and 195 lb-ft. The GT-Line aesthetic package and enhancements like LED lighting are included with the Turbo trim. The 10.25 Premium Touchscreen and the high-end Harman Kardon Audio System are also within. Other high-end additions include remote start, heated seats and steering wheel, and synthetic leather seat trim.
Is the Kia Soul being phased out by Kia?
The Kia Soul gets a makeover for the 2023 model year that features a redesigned lineup and an angrier mug. For 2023, Kia has reduced the number of Soul models available, removing the X-Line and Turbo trims.
What exactly is the Kia Plus bundle?
While the majority of people are only familiar with the Kia Soul through its lengthy history of contentious advertising campaigns that feature popular songs and computer-generated hamsters, there is actually a fairly good automobile under all the hype.
It is a very roomy and comfortable compact hatchback with great seats, attractive inside dcor, and a contemporary set of infotainment and technological capabilities for the driver and passengers. Even more shockingly, even with many features selected, the price of the full package is far less than the average for the sector.
After we explain the distinctions between each trim level and the equipment included in each extra package, you should have no issue choosing the choice that is perfect for you, despite the fact that the customizability options do require some work to sort out.
Compare the 2018 Soul base vs + (Plus) Trims. What is the difference?
The Kia Soul base model is just referred to as the Soul or the Soul base and does not have any particular name. A 130 horsepower, entry-level 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is standard on the Soul. It is adequate for ordinary driving, but it lacks excitement and will struggle once you start packing the spacious inside with people and cargo.
It has a typical manual transmission, Bluetooth, air conditioning, power windows and locks, a USB connector, and an audio system with satellite radio.
For this model, the only other optional package is a six-speed automatic transmission, which is an optional feature. A 7-inch touchscreen with the UVO infotainment system, voice recognition, and support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included with the Base Convenience Package. Additionally, it includes an automatic digital climate control system, automatic headlights, and a rearview camera. The kit is not available for the base Soul model with a manual transmission.
Although the Soul’s mid-range trim level is officially called Plus, people outside of Kia typically refer to it as Plus. The Plus has a newer, 2 liter engine that increases the car’s displacement and output to 161 horsepower. This engine, which only available with a six-speed automatic transmission, seems much more at ease on broad roads or when the car is fully loaded.
It has the same economy as the smaller engine, which is an interesting finding. In addition to the Base Convenience Package’s features and 17-inch alloy wheels, the Soul Plus also receives better interior and exterior trim than the Base model. This is all in addition to the mechanical upgrades.
Additionally, it provides a lot more packaging options. The steering wheel and shift knob are covered in leather as part of the Designer Collection Package, which also improves the wheels to 18 inches. Several Designer Collection hues that aren’t accessible without the package are also made available.
The audio package improves the infotainment and audio systems. This package replaces the 7-inch touchscreen with an 8-inch one and adds more USB connections, a navigation system, push-button start with keyless entry, and Harman/Kardon audio. Along with the additional leatherette and satin inside trim pieces, the steering wheel and shift knob, as well as additional ambient lighting, are also included.
The Primo Lit option also includes a power sunroof, a heated steering wheel, auto-leveling HID headlights, LED external lighting, heated seats in the front and back rows, leather upholstery, power front row adjustments, and a number of active safety measures. These include smart cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automated braking, and blind spot recognition with rear cross traffic alert. This upgrade makes the Soul into a highly upmarket vehicle and is dependent on the Audio Package.
As we’ve already mentioned, Kia’s Soul trim levels follow a pretty unusual strategy. The Plus covers the most of the rest of the product line, while the base model is roughly comparable to the entry-level models of other comparable cars. It is a pretty entry-level vehicle on its own, despite having an updated engine, but the Audio Package moved it into the mid-range, and the Primo Lit package elevates it to a luxury model.
The standard Plus or the Plus with the Audio Package will likely be the best option for the majority of consumers, with the exception of those on a tight budget who will appreciate the base model’s low price. In either arrangement, it is still slightly less expensive than similar competitors, feels considerably nicer to drive, and has a much more premium interior.
Despite being one of the more costly vehicles in the market with leather and high-end equipment like heated rear seats, the Primo Lit package may be a bit much for most consumers. Nonetheless, it is still one of the least expensive cars in the segment.
Compare the 2018 Kia Soul + (Plus) vs ! (Exclaim) Trim Levels. What is the difference?
The Kia Soul Exclaim, which has a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and a rapid 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, is the most potent variant. It has 201 horsepower. Push button start, 18-inch wheels, and premium interior trim are all included as standard features. This variant also comes with a 7-inch touchscreen with UVO.
Although this model has 1 more mile per gallon and more horsepower than the Plus, it also has a smaller range of extra packages. The heated and powered seats, enhanced Harman/Kardon audio system from the Plus, heated and powered seats, blind spot monitors, HID and LED exterior lighting, and an 8-inch touchscreen are all included in the model’s technology package.
However, it is devoid of the Plus’ optional smart cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning features. Additionally offered separately as part of the Sunroof package, which needs the Technology Package, is the moonroof.
It’s challenging to compare the Plus with the Exclaim side by side. In comparison to the Plus, the Exclaim has more functions as standard, but when fully equipped and at a somewhat greater cost, it actually has less features altogether. A significantly more responsive powertrain and marginally greater fuel economy make up for these drawbacks.
In the end, the Plus will likely be the better option if you are not very interested in having a more powerful vehicle and find that the amenities available have a greater impact on how much you enjoy driving. The same is true if you require cutting-edge active safety measures. The leather interior would only be an exception if it were your sole significant point of interest. The base Exclaim model without any supplemental packages offers the best value in the situation.
When pushing the Soul to its limits, the Exclaim’s additional 41 horsepower does make a noticeable difference for drivers looking for a little bit more performance.
Which Trim Level to Choose?
The 2018 Kia Soul lineup nearly feels like it consists of three different vehicles due to the numerous options offered on each trim level and the three engines that are available. The standard Soul is a small hatchback with a few highly desired connectivity options as an optional upgrade.
When the Primo Lit package is added, the Soul Plus transitions from a nicer entry-level car to a model that is almost luxurious. Last but not least, the Soul Exclaim fulfills the function of a hot hatch with its added power and improved design, albeit at the expense of a few options. Budget-conscious drivers will inevitably favor the base model, while those who prioritize comfort will favor the Plus, and those who are passionate about performance will tend to favor the Exclaim.
Choosing a Kia Soul that fits your lifestyle is simpler than it looks thanks to the diversity on offer!
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
What issues are there with Kia Souls?
The Kia Soul dominated the market for more than ten years with its boxy appearance, which people either love or detest, good safety ratings, and a long list of standard amenities. Today, the Soul is among Kia’s best-selling vehicles and is still a serious competitor in the subcompact crossover SUV market.
Despite being a reliable small SUV, there have been several problems, complaints, and recalls across a number of model years. There are some Kia Soul years to stay away from when purchasing used.
The worst Kia Soul years to steer clear of due to reliability difficulties are listed below, along with the safest years for used purchasing.
Which Kia Soul Years to Avoid?
If at all possible, stay away from buying a secondhand Kia Soul from one of the following model years:
- Kia Soul 2012
- Kia Soul (2013)
- Kia Soul (2014)
- Kia Soul 2015
- Kia Soul 2016
Kia Soul
The 2012 Kia Soul should be avoided at all costs, according to the people from Car Reports, who cite 470 NHTSA complaints. Body integrity issues and flawed safety features were its principal shortcomings.
Clunking noises when turning are this Soul year’s most prevalent problem. Owners have mentioned hearing a clunking or popping sound when rotating the steering wheel. Additionally, some owners have heard loud rattles when driving on roads or hitting small bumps. Owners are perplexed that there hasn’t been a recall because this body integrity issue is so prevalent.
The 2012 Soul’s unlatched hood while driving is another potential issue. Although this is a rare problem, it poses a serious safety risk, particularly on roads or freeways.
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Kia Soul
Several owners of the 2013 Soul have suffered engine failure, which has been known to occur at roughly 85,000 miles or more. Some users reported hearing a banging sound emanating from the engine, while others just experienced an engine failure. The expected fix for this issue is to replace the engine, which will set you back a whooping $5,000.
A few owners reported that their Soul’s engine had started to make a ticking noise, which is less serious. The ticking noise, which may be anywhere from mildly bothersome to frighteningly loud, compels owners to visit their nearby Kia dealership. With an average repair cost of $4,100, we cannot recommend the Soul model year.
Kia Soul
The 2014 Kia Soul is the greatest loser in terms of complaints. The 2014 Soul is unquestionably one of the worst Kia Soul years to stay away from, receiving more than 900 complaints. Similar to the 2013 Kia Soul, the 2014 model similarly receives a pitiful 1 out of 5 stars from Consumer Reports.
One of the 2014 Soul’s most serious problems, according to a number of Consumer Reports owners, is engine failure. This issue appears to be connected to the oil pump in the Soul, which results in higher-than-normal oil consumption by the engine. One owner said that the car began requiring a quart of oil every 300 miles.
The 2014 Soul has a terrible comeback of the engine’s annoying ticking/knocking noise. The initial diagnosis by technicians is that this occurs at about 105k miles and is caused by low oil. However, the owners who are meticulous and keep up with their oil changes are the ones who complain the most.
Kia Soul
The 2015 Kia Soul is another vehicle you ought to stay away from, with more than 700 NHTSA complaints and four recalls to its name. The 2015 model of the Soul has numerous engine problems, just like the other problematic Souls on our list.
Engine failure is the issue that needs to be addressed first. Around 80k miles is the typical mileage at which this problem appears. Many customers have noted that the engine initially made knocking or ticking noises or began to burn more oil. The Soul’s engine finally just stopped working. You will be responsible for paying the estimated $4,620 cost of the engine rebuild or replacement if this occurs.
Excessive oil use is another area of concern. It seems that the engine guzzles oil like it’s nobody’s business when it’s not breaking down.
Check out our list of the top 10 most dependable used sedans available if you’re ready to start looking for a used automobile and reliability is important to you.
Kia Soul
The number one issue with the 2016 Soul, as measured by the severity scale, is a blown engine. According to several accounts, the 2016 Soul’s engine is prone to blowing up, particularly after 90k miles. This is not only dangerous, but an engine replacement will cost you almost $7,000 as well.
Additionally, Kia Soul owners complained that their car simply won’t start. Although there are indications that there may be a battery issue, most concerns are unrelated to this.
Common Kia Soul Problems
Although the Kia Soul is extremely reliable in every way, there are a few persistent issues that impact cars from a few years ago. Here are a few examples:
- spike in cruise control There are rumors that some Soul models have a surgey cruise control technology. Owners reported that when the SUV was in cruise control mode, it would suddenly accelerate and then slow down to a crawl. As of the time of writing, Kia has not yet addressed this potentially deadly problem.
- a ticking clock
- Although it’s not the most typical of Soul models, 2013 Soul owners find it extremely annoying. Hearing loud knocking or ticking noises emanating from the engine is not enjoyable. The Kia Soul has yet another problem with its engine.
- spinning while clicking
- The 2012 Soul’s clunking sounds when turning were a problem for owners. This is unquestionably a body integrity issue that Kia overlooked.
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Kia Soul
One of the most dependable Kia Soul generations was the second one ever produced. A adaptable, reasonably priced, and all-around useful compact SUV is the 2011 Soul. Car Complaints awarded the 2011 Soul a “Pretty Good” Seal of Approval for dependability, stating that it is “pleasant to drive, roomy, and trustworthy.”
Kia Soul
The 2018 Soul features a huge luggage area, a roomy interior, a nimble turbocharged engine, and top-notch reliability ratings. In fact, the 2018 Soul received a fantastic Quality & Reliability score from J.D. Power of 84 out of 100.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul made a victorious comeback the following year with its 2019 year model. The 2019 Kia Soul received praise for its smooth ride, great utility, and respectable fuel efficiency. You may put your reliability concerns to rest because the 2019 Kia Soul received a reliability rating of 4 out of 5.
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