2017 Kia Soul | Consumer Guide Auto

2017 Kia Soul Exclaim

Pros: Impressive room for four adults, despite the small overall size; generous levels of standard equipment; lots of “with-it” available features; classy-for-the-class interior materials

Cons: Gas-engine drivetrains are a bit unpolished at times; significant engine noise in some driving situations

CG Says: Kia Soul gains a new turbocharged engine for 2017. A 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder replaces a 164-hp 2.0-liter engine in the topline Soul Exclaim. Exclaim gains standard keyless access and starting, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. All Souls have revised front and rear styling. Rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot alert are newly available. Soul is a subcompact wagon with seating for five. Soul offers three gas engines and is also available as the all-electric Soul EV. The base engine is a 130-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder that is paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The midrange Plus is powered by a 164-hp 2.0-liter four that is mated to a 6-speed automatic. The Exclaim has a 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with a 7-speed automated-manual transmission. Meanwhile, the all-electric Soul EV is powered by a 109-hp electric motor. Navigation, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, heated/ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats are available. The Soul’s tall, boxy body proportions mean that it packs a surprising amount of passenger and cargo room in a small overall package. In optioned-up form, the Soul also packs a surprising number of comfort and convenience features and a convincingly upscale feel for its class. The expressive, funky-box styling might turn off some shoppers, but the Soul’s handling is a bit more nimble that its looks might suggest. The ride quality is quite pleasant for a subcompact as well. The competitively priced Soul is a very compelling mix of personality and practicality.

The Facts

Class	Subcompact Car
Body Style(s)	4-door wagon
Passenger Count	5
Drive Wheels	front-wheel drive
Manufacturer	Kia
Nation of Manufacture	South Korea
Base Prices	Base: $15,990 Plus (+): $19,650 Exclaim (!): $22,650 Soul EV-e (CA only): $32,250 Soul EV: $33,950 Soul EV +: $35,950