The 2021 Kia Soul is available in seven different trims, LX, S, GT-Line, X-Line, EX and Turbo. All models feature a 2.0L 4-cylinder, making 147 horsepower, while the top-of-the-line Turbo uses a 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder rated at 201 horsepower and up to 29mpg. All five 2.0L equipped vehicles come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission with an Intelligent Variable Transmission as an option but opting for a GT-Line Turbo gets you a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission standard. Generally, though, the Soul is pretty miserly with its fuel as it can achieve up to 35 mpg on the highway while still giving you plenty of power to pass.
Even base Kia models are pretty well-equipped and the Soul LX is no exception. Some surprising standard features are available. 16-inch alloy wheels come as standard equipment as does a 7-inch touch screen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, a backup camera and steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls.
Mid-level S models build on the LX by adding Blind-Spot Collision Assist, body-color outside mirrors, Drive Mode Select, Lane Change Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, Remote Keyless Entry, and a standard IVT transmission.
Stepping into a GT-Line trim level adds a 12V power outlet, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual center console USB charging ports, front fog lights, and a leather wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob. The X-Line then takes the GT-Line one step further with exclusive 18-inch wheels, silver adjustable outside mirrors, X-Line body kit, and X-Line roof rails.
The top of the line for non-turbo vehicles is the EX trim level. Opting in for the EX yields a 10-way power adjustable seat, automatic digital temperature control, heated front seats and wing mirrors, a Hot Stamping front grille, LED positioning lights with projectors, a 10.25-inch infotainment system, a wireless charging pad, and navigation with Sirius XM radio.
The top-of-the-line Turbo comes with everything on the EX while jazzing up the interior with heads-up display, heated steering wheel, chrome-tipped exhaust, dynamic interior lighting, a Harman-Kardon sound system with subwoofer, a built-in navigation system, steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, mirror mounted LED turn indicators, and all LED exterior lighting. The Turbo also comes with a full sensor suite, including a blind spot warning system, a lane departure warning system, an emergency autonomous braking system and rear cross-traffic alert.
Clean, Modern Styling
Increased Interior Room
Upscale Equipment Availability
Available Turbocharged Engine
The Kia Soul moves into 2021 with a few minor changes. A rear occupant alert is now standard across all trims, while the GT-Line Turbo trim gets a new name moving into 2021 as the Turbo trim.
The Kia Soul competes in the increasingly popular subcompact crossover class of vehicles amongst competitors such as the Toyota C-HR and the Honda HR-V. More and more, buyers are opting for compact SUVs and hatchback vehicles in place of traditional family sedans. Vehicles like the Kia Soul provide versatility and passenger carrying capacity without paying huge drawbacks in fuel economy, space or comfort. The 2020 Soul starts at around $17,500 with a standard equipment list and drivetrain warranty that warrant it a second, maybe even third look.
