2016 Kia Soul - Miami, FL

Is it possible to find a more impressive subcompact car than the 2016 Kia Soul?

Probably not. Sure, the vehicle offers all of the amenities and features that you're used to seeing from these types of rides. The engines deliver excellent efficiency, the exterior is angular and modern, and the vehicle is chock full of technological features.

However, the Soul separates itself from the competition due to the inclusion of features that aren't often seen in subcompact cars. The vehicle's interior is full of comfort features and convenience attributes, making for one of the most enjoyable rides possible. Plus, the engines pump out a surprising amount of power, so customers won't have to compromise performance.

Are you looking for a subcompact that's helping to redefine the segment? Then then 2016 Kia Soul is likely the proper vehicle for you.

Starting At

$15,900

Powerful Engines

The Kia Soul's power specs certainly aren't going to break any records, but the numbers are still respectable, especially when compared to other subcompact cars.

The 1.6-liter Inline 4 engine is the smaller of the two offerings. Featuring a DOHC, 16-valve valve train, drivers can expect the unit to pump out 130 horsepower and 118 pounds-feet of torque. The unit is accompanied by a six-speed manual transmission or the optional electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission (with Overdrive).

Drivers could opt for the 2.0-liter Inline 4 engine (with a DOHC, 16-valve valve train), which produces increased power specs at 164 horsepower and 151 pounds-feet of torque. This engine is accompanied by the six-speed automatic transmission.

Each of the engine offerings is partnered with four-wheel disc brakes with Antilock Braking capabilities. Each of the units is also joined by front-wheel drive capabilities (making it a perfect choice for winter driving) and electric power steering. MacPherson struts make up the front suspension, while a coupled torsion beam axle makes up the rear suspension.

Fuel Efficient

While the solid power specs are appreciated, the Kia Soul is known for its incredible fuel efficiency. Thanks to the dual continuously variable valve timing technology, trips to the gas station will be kept at a minimum.

The 1.6-liter delivers a 24 city/30 highway mile per gallon efficiency. Meanwhile, drivers can expect a 24 city/31 mpg efficiency via the 2.0-liter engine.

Exterior Style

The soulful exterior of the 2016 Kia Soul is accentuated by the effective and eye-catching lights. The High-Intensity Discharge Headlights provide excellent visibility on dark or stormy nights.

If drivers want more sky, sunshine, or stars, they can opt for the panoramic sunroof (with power sunshade). For optimal convenience, drivers can look to add the heated outside mirrors and the Variable Intermittent Windshield Wipers.

Of course, the variety of wheel options is also a major highlight of the exterior. The 16-inch alloy wheels come standard, but drivers can opt for the other offerings, including 18-inch alloy wheels with metallic gray inserts.

Interior Comfort

Drivers require optimal comfort from their vehicles, and the 2016 Kia Soul certainly delivers in that respect. The luxurious and comfy interior will truly make any car buyer content.

The heated and ventilated seats will keep drivers cool during the summer and warm during the winter. This is the perfect accompaniment to the soft-touch upholstery options and "tailored" headrests. Passengers can sink into these chairs and zone out, and the Soul's interior LED mood lighting will help you doze off. Convenience was also a priority of the engineers, as the Push-Button Start technology means the driver doesn't need keys in hand in order to operate the vehicle.

The Soul's interior is also plenty spacious. Drivers and passengers will appreciate the 39.6 inches of front headroom and 39.5 inches of rear head room, 55.5/54.7-inches of shoulder room, 40.9/39.1-inches of leg room, and 53.2/49.3-inches of hip room. Plus, with the rear seat hidden, drivers can utilize the 61.3-cubic-feet of cargo space (without the Luggage Under Tray).

UVO System

The true star of the 2016 Kia Soul is the UVO infotainment system. The technology (which can be accessed via an eight-inch touch-screen) provides a number of useful applications and functions that make for both a more enjoyable and convenient driving experience.

The driver can jam out to their favorite tunes thanks to the Digital Jukebox. Passengers can link up their smartphones to listen to their preferred playlists, or they can connect a flash drive to access endless amounts of music. Meanwhile, if drivers get lost during their journey, Google Maps will help get your Soul back on the proper route.

Best of all, drivers can access vehicle diagnostics through the UVO system. This means you can monitor tire pressure, efficiency, engine performance... all essential information that often goes overlooked. This way, you can better understand when it's time to bring your Soul to a mechanic.

LCD/Camera Display

The technology doesn't stop with the UVO system. Drivers will also appreciate the 4.3-inch thin film transistor LCD display, where they can monitor their vehicle's operations and even play music without taking their eyes off the road.

Drivers will also learn to rely on the rear-camera display. The unit allows an owner to survey everything that's happening around their vehicle, so they'll never be caught off guard by a sudden vehicle.