2018 Kia Soul Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byJames Riswick
Edmunds Contributor
James Riswick is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.Pros
- Long list of standard and optional features
- Attractive cabin with user-friendly controls
- More passenger space than many small SUVs
- Excellent crash test scores
Cons
- Unimpressive fuel economy
- All-wheel drive isn't available
- Ride quality can be overly harsh with bigger wheels
What's new
- More standard features for 2018
- Part of the second Soul generation introduced for 2014
When it debuted for the 2010 model year, the Kia Soul was difficult to classify. Was it a hatchback, a wagon or something else entirely? In recent years there has been a growing number of so-called subcompact crossover SUVs that provide the elevated seating height and enhanced cargo capacity of larger models but with a lower price tag. Really, they're an awful lot like the Soul in concept. Maybe we can add "trendsetter" to the Soul's list of attributes.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Kia Soul 4dr Wagon (1.6L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.26 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$150/mo
Soul Base
vs
$185/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Yet, the 2018 Kia Soul is more appealing than its newfound competitors in a few ways. It has a roomier interior, with greater cargo and backseat space than the often-cramped competition that deserves the name "subcompact." Its crash scores are exemplary. It's also available with more power than its rivals — and not just the 201-horsepower turbocharged engine found in the range-topping Exclaim (!) trim level. The midgrade engine has a better-than-most 161 horsepower, too. And then there's the Soul's list of comfort, convenience and infotainment items at a price that undercuts those little SUVs considerably. You can get a lot more for your money by opting for the Soul.
Unfortunately, one thing you can't get is all-wheel drive, which is something those subcompact SUVs typically offer. Its fuel economy, regardless of engine, also disappoints. That should be of particular concern if you're looking at the Soul as more of a compact car alternative. On the whole, however, the Soul is an attractive little (insert vehicle type of your choice here) that should be a fashionable yet value-rich addition to your garage.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
A onetime oddball car suddenly finds itself with a wealth of competition $mdash; and manages to be among its newfound segment's best. The 2018 Kia Soul may not offer the all-wheel drive of subcompact SUVs, but it generally provides more space, better performance and more equipment at a lower price.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our evaluation of a 2017 Kia Soul Exclaim (!) (turbo 1.6L inline-4 | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | FWD).
Driving
Most drivers won't need the added power from the Kia Soul Exclaim's turbo engine, but there's no doubt any driver will appreciate it. We were surprised by how entertaining and capable this boxy little car is on a twisting road, which translates to a more confident ride for less than sporty drivers.
Comfort
The Soul rides a little stiffer than other SUVs, but it's far from being a deal-breaker. Even on long drives you're unlikely to feel fatigued.
Interior
There's a lot of plastic throughout the interior, but the panels are nicely grained and feel substantial. Any spots that you regularly touch or rest your elbows on are padded. Really, it's better than most.
Utility
The Soul's boxy shape allows it to make the most of all available space. Cargo capacity is better than in most subcompact SUV competitors, though space aft of the back seat is still only so-so. Interior storage could also be better.
Technology
Kia exceeds expectations when it comes to technology. A lot of features are built into the touchscreen infotainment system (including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), which is easy to reach and operate. Response time is immediate, and the optional audio system delivers a solid punch.
Which Soul does Edmunds recommend?
We like the midgrade Soul Plus. It's a bargain yet comes nicely equipped with just about all the features you'll likely need or enjoy, including an automatic transmission and the 7-inch Uvo infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Its 2.0-liter engine is noticeably more powerful than the base Soul's 1.6-liter engine. Another nice aspect of the Plus is the array of options available. While you could buy a stock Plus for the budget play, just about everything in Kia's upgrade arsenal is available should you want it, including heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats, a Harman Kardon sound system and the latest advanced driver safety aids.
2018 Kia Soul models
The 2018 Kia Soul is available in three trim levels: base, Plus (+) and Exclaim (!). Each comes with a different engine. An automatic transmission is standard on the Plus and Exclaim and optional on the base Soul, which comes with a six-speed manual.