Explore the 2023 Kia Soul: Features, Variants, and Pricing

The 2023 Kia Soul stands out as a leading choice among compact crossovers. It boasts a bold, unique style, reliable performance, and a spacious interior. Offering two engine choices and a comfortable ride, the Soul is spacious enough for passengers and cargo, thanks to its distinctive boxy shape. Here's a comprehensive overview of the latest Kia Soul, including key features and pricing details.

About Kia

Kia Corporation, based in South Korea, is a global automaker that has grown rapidly, surpassing many competitors to become the country's second-largest automaker by 2019 with over 2.8 million vehicles sold. It now operates under the Hyundai Motor Group umbrella.

2023 Kia Soul Highlights

Powertrain and Ride Quality

The 2023 Soul features a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission and front-wheel drive. While not sporty, it offers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience with adequate handling for everyday use. Many drivers appreciate its personality and practicality.

Interior Design and Comfort

Its upright design provides a roomy cabin ideal for longer trips, with ample space for both passengers and cargo. The interior features vibrant textured door panels and customizable color schemes. Optional upgrades include heated seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, wireless charging, a head-up display, push-button start, and keyless entry for enhanced convenience.

Safety Features

The base LX trim includes essential driver-assistance systems, with higher trims offering advanced options such as forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot detection, and automatic high beams. For detailed crash test results, consult agencies like NHTSA and IIHS.

Connectivity Options

Most trims except the LX come equipped with a 10.3-inch touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LX features an 8-inch screen. Higher trims also provide SiriusXM radio, navigation, wireless charging, and a premium six-speaker audio system for an elevated experience.

Variant Lineup

The 2023 Kia Soul trims are:

• Soul LX – Includes USB ports, remote entry, cloth seats, and 16-inch steel wheels.
• Soul S – Adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and two USB ports.
• Soul GT-Line – Features 18-inch alloy wheels, a sporty steering wheel, and distinct GT-Line bumpers.
• Soul EX – Comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, a sunroof, heated front seats, and upgraded interior options.

Pricing Details

Pricing remains consistent with previous years: LX begins at $19,790; S at $22,290; GT-Line at $23,390; and the top-tier EX at $24,090. Many competitors cost significantly more, especially in safety features and premium options, which Kia offers at a competitive price. Higher trims provide additional benefits often absent in similarly priced SUVs, making the Soul a compelling choice despite fewer standard safety features.