Kia Soul

Introduction

The Korean automobile maker Kia presented Soul, a crossover SUV, in its legacy in the year 2008 at the Paris Motor show. It incorporates qualities of both a minivan and a mini SUV with a compact design. Soul is based on Kia Rio’s platform and is produced in Gwangju, South Korea. Kia Soul has got a fashionable interior with foldable rear seats providing ample of cargo space inside. Kia Soul comes in the category of affordable small cars with a six speed manual transmission. It provides 3 modes of driving such as Comfort, Normal and Sport mode in an easy switch.

Engine, Mileage and Variants

Kia Soul is available in variants powered by a 1.6 litre GDI engine, 1.6 litre MPI engine, 2.0 litre MPI engine and 1.6 litre VGT engine. The most powerful engine among the lot is the 2.0 litre MPI engine which can deliver a maximum power of 154 PS at 6200 rpm along with a peak torque of 191 Nm at 4700 rpm. The average fuel consumption of this engine variant is 7.5 litres per 100 kilometers. The maximum speed attained by the Soul is 188 kmph, accelerating from 0-100 kmph in just 10.4 seconds.

Exteriors

Kia Soul entices its customers by a two-tone color option for its exteriors. The headlights are designed distinctively with LED positioning lights in front and the high-mounted combination lamps at the rear side are cutting edge in shape with modern designed cues that fantasizes from every angle uniquely. The tailgate in Soul is funky in its style with a distinct backpack conveying a wider rear image for an absolute on-road presence. The ORVM has got turning indicators engineered in it giving it a unique look. Soul features an urban styling pack with tinted glass, front and rear fog lights and heated door mirrors which are electrically adjustable.

Interiors

Kia Soul sports lavish interior design with simple fingertip touch high technology embedded in it. The steering wheel is wrapped with leather with an intuitive command in hands of cruise control,audio,Flex steer,Bluetooth and function of trip computer. The center instrument cluster in the front is recessed with high-tech gauges providing a huge variety of vehicle information which is displayed logically in an array. The leather upholstery takes everyone’s heart by its ultimate comfort and softness taking the ambiance to another level. The Auto start/stop button of engine is uniquely placed at the floor console in front right next to the shift lever offering a sporty touch to the driver. The high tech audio system comprises of 4.3 inches touch screen display that incorporates a rear view camera, high-end radio, and MP3 controls with integrated air vents and Aux/USB/iPod connectivity.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous

Safety is a major concern while engineering any vehicle and Soul has taken much care of it. The safety features included in Kia Soul are 15 inches disc brakes that ensures a extremely efficient braking while driving. Passenger, driver, curtain and side airbags have been provided for reducing the force effect during collisions. Hill Assist Control (HAC) is also packed for the convenience of the driver during the uphill drive of this car. Other than these features, Blind spot detection, active front head restraints and automatic lock on doors is also provided for maximum safety of all the passengers.

Verdict

Kia Soul is the vehicle with an ample of cargo space coupled with a large list of high tech features and of-course first rated cabin material. However the sluggish acceleration and not so impressive fuel economy may make you think twice before buying this vehicle.