2012 Kia Soul


AUSTIN, Texas — Three years ago Kia introduced an iconic little hatchback called the Soul that has now become the segment-leading compact crossover. For 2012 Soul has been refreshed and enhanced with new technologies, increased horsepower and if it’s possible, a more fun-to-drive demeanor. True to its funky ways Soul comes in three trim levels: Soul Base; Soul +; and Soul !.
 
For 2012 it offers a choice of four-cylinder engines. Base is a 1.6L GDI mated to a six-speed manual transmission that produces 138 horsepower (a 13% boost over the previous model) and 123 pound-feet of torque. 
 
Optional is a 2.0L I-4 that develops 164 horsepower (a 16% increase) and 148 pound-feet of torque. The 2.0L is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. 
 
Later in the 2012 model year Soul will be the first in its segment to offer Idle Stop and Go (ISG), a fuel-saving technology that turns off the engine when the vehicle is not in motion (like stop lights or in heavy traffic). The engine restarts automatically when the driver releases the brake pedal. Usually one had to have a hybrid to experience those same characteristics.
 
Available right away for the 2012 model year is an Eco Package (on both engines when equipped with automatic transmissions) that includes ISG technology and low-rolling-resistance tires for improved fuel economy. Be forewarned there’s a noticeable decrease in power when driving in Eco mode.
 
Whereas most vehicles in this segment let the driver and passengers know where every single bump in the road is the 2012 Soul offers up a smooth and relatively quiet ride. It’s perfectly suited for zipping around twisty roads and the lack of head-toss is much appreciated by those bothered by such movements. Depending on trim level and packaging it sits on 15”, 16” or 18” tires and wheels.
 
Externally, the 2012 Soul offers subtle changes like new projector headlamps with front LED accent lights, a redesigned hood and new front and rear bumpers. New LED rear light clusters enhance the design. The wide array of colors has something for everybody.
 
For a “cute little four-wheeled ‘box’” it definitely has some big-time interior space. Like most four-door vehicles with a rear seat the Soul has seating for five. Unlike most “seating for five” vehicles, Soul really does seat five. Front seat room is very good and rear seat passengers are treated to above-average room comfortable enough for short trips.
 
The instrument cluster is well-laid out but the digital readout of trip mileage and other information is barely legible because of its red color. The sooner manufacturers realize that red is one of the more difficult colors to read on an instrument panel during daylight the better off their customers are going to be. HVAC controls are user-friendly and conveniently placed on the center stack. The center console could use an arm rest.
 
There’s an available navigation system with one of the sharpest screen display available. At times, however, the voice output seems to step all over itself, particularly when it encounters a complex name. Often it takes several repeats from the “map voice” button to understand it. Audiophiles will love the all-new 350-watt seven-speaker Infinity audio system that’s available on the Soul + models and standard on the Soul !.
 
Fuel economy is as good as one would expect with a vehicle in this segment. Mileage for the 1.6L comes in at 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway. With the 2.0L the figures goes to 26/34. Throw in the Eco Package and it jumps to 29/36 for the 1.6L and 27/35 for the 2.0.
 
MSRP for the 2012 Kia Soul Base with a manual transmission is $13,900; going up to $19,600 for the Soul ! with an automatic transmission. There are a number of stand-alone options and packages for buyers to customize their vehicles. 
 
— Al Vinikour