Used 2016 Kia Soul Consumer Reviews
Used Soul for sale
This little car is amazing
Andre, 01/15/2016
2016 Kia Soul ! 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
22 of 22 people found this review helpful
I was looking for a Honda CR-Vibrations but decided to get the Kia Soul. No regrets. - The best infotainment in the market. - 10 way power - very comfortable - heated and cooled front seats. Heated rear seats. - Cooled glovebox - Panoramic moonroof. Spectacular! - Best warranty 10 years - Great design. Unique. - Smooth ride - Easy to get in and out
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Fun car and a great value!
Tim Parker, 11/25/2015
updated 06/01/2021
2016 Kia Soul + 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
35 of 36 people found this review helpful
I shopped for a Soul a year ago and ended up buying a Honda Civic instead. No knock on the Civic, but it just wasn't the right car for me, and I found myself still looking. I came back around to the Soul. Kia had special financing, and the dealer was offering a better deal than I could find a year ago, so I took the plunge and bought the 2016 Soul+ with the Audio/Nav package. Wow! I'm so glad I bought it! I love the extra driving height and extra headroom. There's more room in the back seat. There's more cargo room. It's fun to drive. Acceleration is good with the 2.0 liter engine. Handling is good. Pro reviewers talk about "numb" steering but I don't notice it. It drives and handles fine. That said, it's not a sports car so don't buy this if that's what you want. It has lots of creature comforts like a great audio system that thumps you in the chest if you want it to, but can be tamed if desired. The nav system works well. I didn't think I wanted it, but now that I have it I use it often. I like the climate control system. I have it set and never need to touch it. It keeps the cabin comfortable no matter what the outside temp is. It has a large touch screen that is easy to use and pretty intuitive. You can check Kia's site for a full breakdown of features. For me the important thing is the features it has all work together to create a fun and comfortable driving experience. I've only had it a month so I can't comment on long term durability, but so far there's not a squeak, not a rattle, everything works flawlessly, and the materials and workmanship are first rate, especially for a vehicle in this price range. A+ for the Soul! Update May, 2018: After 2 1/2 years this Soul+ still looks and runs like new. No squeaks or rattles, the interior and exterior still look like new (except for a scrape on rear bumper from a hit & run in a parking lot - not even a note - very classy) and it starts and runs perfectly. The build quality is outstanding! I highly recommend the Soul+ to anyone who's looking. I'll update again in a couple more years! Update May 2021: I sold the Soul in November 2020. At the time it still ran like new. The only reason I sold it was to get a larger vehicle. In retrospect I kinda miss that fun Soul! If you decide to buy one my only advice would be to check out recalls for that particular vehicle. I see in the news that there are some issues that may affect some Souls so it's worth looking into. I never had any issues with mine.
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2016 Kia Soul for sale near you
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Versatility, practicality and value
Bucki, 02/29/2016
updated 08/30/2017
2016 Kia Soul 4dr Wagon (1.6L 4cyl 6A)
32 of 33 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2016 KIA Soul Base automatic. I paid $14.5k before taxes and registration. At this price point the Soul represents an excellent value and I would recommend it. Strong points: Versatility, practicality and excellent warranty. The wagon/hatchback layout is much more versatile than a traditional sedan, at a significantly lower price than a comparably-sized SUV/crossover. KIA’s 5y/60k miles bumper-to-bumper and 10y/100k miles powertrain warranty offers excellent protection for budget-minded buyers. Weak points: Lackluster performance and comfort. Performance from the stock 1.6L engine is adequate but the Soul is definitely not a fast vehicle. Very smooth transmission with relatively low gearing helps to maintain car dynamics, but at the expense of fuel economy and engine noise. Comfort is good for short drives, but long road trips are tiresome. And don’t mistake the Soul for a “real” SUV/crossover – if you want higher ground clearance, AWD or even minimal towing capability, look elsewhere. Performance: The Base 1.6L engine delivers adequate power for city driving and reasonable highway performance, but the Soul isn’t fast. The transmission gearing keeps the engine relatively revved-up (compared to other modern cars), helping to improve driving dynamics, but at the expense of fuel economy and increased cabin noise. Even with 4 adults the Soul does not feel underpowered at normal highway speeds and typical interstate inclines, but acceleration is only adequate, at best. Fuel economy isn’t what one would expect from a vehicle of this size. The 6-speed automatic transmission is very smooth and usually picks the right gears for the driving conditions, helping to make the most of the little engine. But it also keeps the rpm’s relatively high (close to 3,000 at interstate speeds), resulting in more engine noise. Comfort: The Soul offers a lot of space for the money and there is enough room for 4 fully grown adults to ride in relative comfort. Sitting position is very good with generous leg, head and elbow room, both in the front and the rear. However, the seats are not all that comfortable for long rides. Front seats offer good lateral support, but lumbar support is nonexistent, and there are a few “hard spots” in the seatbacks making prolonged rides somewhat tiring. Rear seats are very flat bench-like, and the seatback angle does not help to adopt a relaxed position for a long ride. Access is excellent thanks to the low floor, tall roof and large doors. The ride is stiff but adequate for the size and class of vehicle, and not overwhelmingly harsh. Cabin sound level is good during city driving and adequate at highway speeds. Both engine and road noise are kept down to reasonable levels. Quality and fit-and-finish: Interior materials are good for vehicle class and price. All panels fit nicely and everything seems solid and well made. There are no squeaks or rattles when driving over uneven road surfaces, and in general the vehicle feels very solid. Cargo space and versatility: The wagon/hatchback layout offers a lot of versatility. The cargo space is adequate and the trunk layout is very clever. There is a cargo organizer tray under the trunk floor, allowing to keep valuable out-of-sight and organized, at the expense of some cargo space above. This tray can be removed, and the trunk floor can be lowered increasing the cargo space by about 30% to accommodate large suitcases. And of course the back seats can be folded, providing plenty of space for large objects. Equipment: As all KIAs, the Soul comes well equipped even in the most basic trim, with a good audio system that includes satellite radio, Bluetooth and voice commands. Pairing-up a phone is quick and easy, and voice commands work generally well. The basic A/C-heater performance is adequate and it is not as noisy as in other economy vehicles. Privacy glass is a nice detail that helps to keep your stuff out-of-sight and the interior cool. Soul comes without a spare tire, but you can buy a tire-jack kit for under $200. Safety: Passive safety is very good with a 5-star rating from NHTSA and Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The Base model lacks some of the modern active safety features such as lane departure, blind spot monitoring or front collision warning/avoidance, but for the price it is a very safe choice. Visibility is very good all-around. Controls are simple, intuitive and very ergonomic. Handling and steering are adequate considering that the Soul is pretty high. Braking is adequate with good pedal feel. Headlights are average with good low-beams. High beams have good reach but provide little illumination to the road surface. Final verdict: For less than $15k the Soul is a strong value and an excellent choice for anybody who wants a versatile, practical vehicle on a budget. KIA’s excellent warranty provides extra protection that otherwise is only available through a pricey extended warranty.
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My "Soul" mate!
Janice, 01/25/2016
2016 Kia Soul 4dr Wagon (1.6L 4cyl 6M)
17 of 17 people found this review helpful
I was tired of the low seating of sports cars and sedans. Driving my Soul feels like a small SUV, solid, smooth, quiet, roomy, no blind spots. Love it!
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I'd never even considered a Kia Soul !
Alec Little, 03/21/2016
2016 Kia Soul ! 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
25 of 26 people found this review helpful
I bought my Kia Soul ! about a month ago. My wife has always driven larger SUVs and I've driven a 4-door Pickup truck for the past 10-years. I fully expected the Soul to have sluggish pickup and I expected to be bounced around like in any lightweight economy vehicle. Let me tell you, this car is comfortable, it has plenty of pep (2.0L) and is fun to drive. I'm particularly pleased with the quality of the materials and workmanship in the car. Plus this Soul! has more electronics than I have ever had in my previous luxury vehicles. I was so impressed that I purchased the extended bumper-to-bumper warranty which I have never done before. I had driven my pickup for 10-years and if my impressions prove correct, I'll be driving this just as long.
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Fun little Hampster Car!
Christine Stuart, 03/21/2016
updated 09/24/2019
2016 Kia Soul + 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
15 of 15 people found this review helpful
This car for the money is a great little car. I wish it had a little better handling and braking but overall for the price we really like the Soul. We had a MINI COOPER that was taking us to the poor house in repairs, and we wanted something a little bigger. The Navi system is one of the best love the picture that shows the EXIT . The seats are very comfortable and the leather is really nice love that smell when you get in.
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Letting my Soul Shine
Sharyn, 12/30/2015
2016 Kia Soul + 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
I have been driving my Soul for almost 2 weeks. My husband & I both love it! It handles well & has been easy to maneuver on our busy highways North of Boston. I have had no problem with speed while pulling out & merging with traffic. The driver's side seat electronic seat adjustments have helped me with my visibility as I am on the shorter side. Also, the space under the driver's seat is perfect to stash my bag while driving. The heated/ventilated seats in the front are fabulous & recently sat in the heated comfortable backseat. I have not experienced driving in snow as of yet, but have driven in rain & at night. The ride has been smooth on all occasions. The ECO button gave me a nice 29mpg for my highway driving.
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2016 Kia Soul +
Dr Dimento, 12/10/2017
updated 11/20/2023
2016 Kia Soul + 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
The second best car I’ve ever owned, the first being my former 2010 Kia Soul +. The car gets 36-37+ mpg on the open road, around 34-35 combined when a lot is city. The car is a great value, loads up like a pick up truck, and great for trips and shopping. This newest engine version is amazing and has unbelievable passing power and yet such great fuel economy. I run only Mobil 1 oil and to get this milage always a Kia oil filter which provides me with at least 10-12% better fuel economy than anyone I know using oil from crude. Thank you Kia for not butchering up the Kia Soul and continuing to keep the car in the spirit of economy, value, performance, ride, room, convenience, and reliable with 100,000 mile warranty (unless you use other than a Kia oil filter). Thumbs Up!! UPDATE JUNE 2020 - Have been driving the car in a routine delivery application around town and getting 31.2 to 33.7 mpg. The only negative is the ride is a little stiff on horrible city streets but it is manageable in exchange for the pluses I get from the car. UPDATE DECEMBER 2021 - with well over 100,000 miles (~118,000) the car still has the same getty-up-go as new, still maintains 31 to 34 mpg average per tank, gets between 28 to 31 mpg while delivering 10-22 orders a day in town, with average delivers of about 3 miles, and just getting ready to install my 3rd set of tires, yes the original tire make that the car came with, although this latest set cost $100 more than the last set at $240. Expecting to run this car to about 200,000 before making a decision what to do henceforth. 125K mile review update. The car continues to be an amazing vehicle. Still solid as a rock, on it's 3rd set of tires since new. Still getting over 30 mpg even while driving over 100 to 200 miles a day when working locally within the county. Definitely looking for 200K plus miles outta this vehicle and Still changing the oil at ~5K miles using 100% Mobil 1 full synthetic 5-20W as Kia manual and oil cap read, plus continuing to use only Kia brand oil filters that I buy from the local Kia dealer in quantities of 4 to 8 at a time. The car has had three deer strike 138K mile Review 11/2022. The car is still running amazing. Averaging between 34 and 36 mpg combined driving. Have not replaced shocks yet, although I'm guessing it's probably time. The have had all new parts on the front fenders, hood, and lower grill plus a headlight from a deer strike. At this very moment awaiting parts to replace the lower grill both sides from bagging my limit in two weeks; one week a buck and the next week a doe, only this time avoided headlights, hood, and fenders . . only wrecked up the vinyl lower wrap around. Yes! We are planning to either get the new Hyundi sport pick up or another Honda Ridgeline, about a 2018 and keep this Soul to 200K miles. :-) UPDATE 2023 the Soul now has 144,238 miles and averaging 34 to 37 mpg and running great. It’s 1/3 way through the third set of original brand and make of tires, and no wobble, play, or malfunction if the steering or engine stutter. UPDATE November 2023 - the car now has 151,367 miles, still maintaining the same amazing fuel economy for a full sized vehicle and not using any oil. On the 3rd set of tires and maybe about ready for a 4th set in the next several months. ,
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"ITS A SLEEPER"
Johnny, 03/10/2016
2016 Kia Soul ! 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
21 of 22 people found this review helpful
I looked and test drove tons of vehicles and the fact that I finally settled on my 2016 Kia Soul Exclaim w/ premium package amazes me. I wouldn't think originally that it would be the one. First the fact their isn't many on the road enabled me to get a good price unlike a Honda. Secondly it has a classic 6 speed automatic and NO CVT, I have the upgraded 2.0 which in this class is hard to get something thats not underpowered like the Subaru cross trek. The 2.0 has more then adequate power, my first drive on the highway I was sandwiched between a semi and a lane that was merging so I punched it and was very satisfied with the passing power. The vehicle is very easy to maneuver and drive, the back up camera is very helpful. I have the 8" touchscreen infotainment and it's very responsive the navigation is on a SD card but is excellent with lane guidance. The leather seats are nice and comfortable I will say the passenger seat sits kinda low but I don't care I'm not the passenger. I also have the upgraded infinity stereo and it sounds good but could be better maybe I need to play around with settings. One of my favorite features is the panoramic sunroof with power sunshade it really brightens up the inside of vehicle. In closing I'm very happy with my Kia Soul and really believe for the money it's a sleeper vehicle.
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4 or 5 depending on expectations
bryan kauffman, 03/30/2016
updated 04/04/2017
2016 Kia Soul + 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
19 of 20 people found this review helpful
Was looking for something that could hold a family of three, one still rocking a car seat, and be enjoyable when I rode alone to and from work (plus I love the aesthetics). Got a topped out version of the plus model after considering the Exclaim. The features I wanted while shaving off about $1500/$2000 off the price, though I think if I wanted the additional features the Exclaim is certainly worth looking at. Driving Impression: Engine - meh. Just okay with the 2.0 liter. But, I am fine with that. If they come out with the much discussed turbo model, I think that will sell briskly and make it the alternative to the VW GTI. Doesnt struggle to keep up in traffic or pass. Just doesnt blow your hair back. Braking seems solid. Wind noise is less than I expected considering the shape. Ride feels composed on the highway. Visibility is spectacular. Body roll around corners is average. Interior - Got the leather with ventilated/heated seats, a huge touch screen display with navigation (no service to buy to use it either.....bonus!) Back seat easily fits my kid's carseat with plenty of room for an adult passenger in front of it. Would probably be tight if he was still in an infant seat, but I think it would still be a fit. Lots of soft touch materials. Odometer display is a bit lackluster. Back seats are comfy for an adult of average height. Nice bonus that the outboard seats are also heated. USB port and 2 120v adapters up front too. Storage - Plenty of cup holders, a nice little cubby space for change and a glasses holder. Armrest storage feels a little insubstantial and doesnt come with any useful trays or anything. Wish you could adjust it a bit so it could be an arm rest. Glove box is cavernous. The rear storage cover is great and can be adjusted or removed if needed. Storage behind the rear seats is adequate and honestly larger than anticipated considering the size of the vehicle (enough for a cart full of groceries) Storage under the floor cover is a wonderful surprise and actually holds quite a bit. r Overall: I would probably give it a 4.25 star review if possible. I think, dollar for dollar, it checks all the boxes and then some with room for only minor improvements. I am thrilled with it and actually am looking a lot more forward to my commute. My one annoyance is the constant pairing of the cell phone (just about every time you start the car it wants to update contact lists and asks if you want to keep your phone as primary. Also, gas mileage is a bit subpar.
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