2022 Kia Soul GT-Line

Pros: Great passenger and cargo for size; peppy performance with turbocharged engine; easy-to-use control layout

Cons: Many desirable safety and comfort features are only available on top models; turbo’s dual-clutch automatic transmission is sometimes clunky; all-wheel drive not available

CG Says: For 2022, the Kia Soul’s S, X-Line and GT-Line trims get new standard features, including a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with navigation and dual-zone climate control. The base LX has a new Technology Package available, but loses the manual-transmission option. The 2022 Kia Soul straddles the line between a subcompact car and subcompact SUV—it has a tall, upright body build and crossover-SUV proportions, but it doesn’t offer all-wheel drive.

The Soul’s base engine is a 147-hp 2.0-liter four and the sportier option is a 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four. The base 2.0-liter is paired with a CVT automatic transmission, while the turbo 1.6 is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Soul lineup consists of LX, S, X-Line, EX, GT-Line, and GT-Line Turbo models. The X-Line has a more SUV-like flavor with body cladding, roof rails and other accents designed to give a more rugged look. The GT-Line is the sportier Soul and the GT-Line Turbo is the only model with the turbo engine. Available safety features include forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, blind-spot alert, driver-attention monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and high-beam assist. Other available features include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, wireless device charging, and a head-up instrument display. The Soul’s boxy shape means that it has excellent passenger and cargo room for a subcompact. A comfortable ride with capable handling, and a long list of welcome available features are other strong points. The base engine provides more than adequate performance, while the turbo engine’s performance is satisfyingly sprightly—but the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission often feels balky in everyday driving. Many desirable comfort and safety features are restricted to the top models, but any Soul offers good value for the money.

The Facts
Class Subcompact SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Kia
Nation of Manufacture South Korea
Base Prices LX: $20,365
S: $22,665
X-Line: $23,765
EX: $24,665
GT-Line 2.0L: $23,765
Turbo 1.6T: $28,965

Base Engine
2.0-liter 4-cylinder (LX, S, X-Line, EX, GT-Line 2.0L)
Horsepower
147
Std. Transmission
CVT
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
28-29
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
33-35

Optional Engine
turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo 1.6T)
Horsepower
201
Std. Transmission
7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
27
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
32

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