Gas prices are on the rise leading us to smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. That said, we still need our space to transport, as the late, great George Carlin described as, “our stuff.” The auto manufacturers from Asia have introduced us to a few of their small boxy cars; however, in my opinion, the winner with the greatest attitude is the 2012 Kia Soul.
Kia launched the Soul in 2009 as a 2010 model. It was the first product from their new design leader, Peter Schreyer. His task was to morph the Kia lineup from dull to a dazzling style. With the Kia Soul he managed to make boxy look so cool and stylish. Kia’s new design theme is now reflected in their entire lineup.
The 2012 Kia Soul has arrived with a mid-cycle refresh with an updated look along with a more powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain. New for 2012: a new six-speed transmission, gasoline direct injection, a new Infinity premium audio system, new projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights that are slightly bulged, a redesigned hood and new front and rear bumpers. Add to that lineup, new and modern LED rear light clusters, and two new exotic exterior paint colors – Canyon and Moss.
New on the 2012 Soul and Soul Sport models is UVO powered by Microsoft®3 in-car hands-free communication and infotainment system. The available premium package includes heated front seats, leather seat trim, automatic climate control, navigation system (in lieu of UVO system), and push-button start for added upscale comforts..
The 2012 Kia Soul is available in three trim levels, base ($13,900), “+” ($16,300) and “!” ($19,600). The Base model comes standard with a 1.6L GDI 4-cylinder engine with a 6-speed manual transmission. The “+” and “!” are equipped with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. An optional six-speed automatic transmission is available on the Base and “+” and standard on the “!”.
The new exterior styling may not be dramatically different from the original; however, has been enhanced to project a stronger stance, with a bit more bling. The roof line angles down, while the belt line angles upward delivering an in-motion feel even when the car sits still. The large rear hatch makes it easy to load and unload into the small cargo area. The major form of the Soul may be square, but this little model has lots of angles and curves. Flat, raised, and rounded wheel wells project out creating a side profile theme that is hip and fun.
The interior is populated with curved angles of décor trim bringing those hip elements inside the Soul. It is simple and functional with an ergonomic layout. The seats were comfortable and had SOUL stitched across each of the backrests. The interior improvements showed of increased attention to detail; fit and finish. One of the trick options that young drivers love is the rotating color front door speaker rims that bounce to the beat of the music or can be adjusted to stay one color. The lights can also be turned completely out when you want to remain anonymous. The rear seats can fold flat with a 60/40 split to increase your overall cargo room.
The most improved feature comes from the engine compartment. There are two choices – 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter four cylinder engines. The 1.6L now has 138 horsepower (a 13% increase over last year), and the 2.0L jumps to 164hp (a 16% increase). Even with the increased horsepower, both engines deliver better fuel economy. Transmissions come in the form of a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. For 2012, Soul and Soul+ models offer an Eco package on the 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter engines with automatic transmissions, which includes ISG technology for improved fuel economy and low-rolling-resistance tires. (ISG is an idle stop-and-go in which the car automatically turns the engine off at stops, and restarts when lifting your foot off the brake preparing to move again).
Room for improvement:
- Plenty of road noise in the cabin
Cool Features:
- Music thumping, lighted speaker rings
- Hip styling
The standard safety equipment for every 2012 Kia Soul models includes: six airbags, active front headrests, LATCH seating system, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a tire pressure monitor.
In Summary – When it comes to the boxy little vehicles of transportation, the 2012 Kia Soul has a hand up in the styling cool factor. It sits at a price point attracting buyers from an array of age groups. The Soul is an entertaining vehicle to get around in. With its improved power and fuel economy I am sure it will continue to be a hit for Kia. The Kia Soul is a funky urban commuter with personality and spunk.
Specifications
2012 Kia Soul+
Base price: $17,300 as driven: $19,845 (including destination)
Engine: 2.0 Liter 4 cylinder
Horsepower: 164 @ 6500
Torque: 148 foot pounds @ 4800
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Drive: Front Wheel-Drive
Seating: 5-passenger
Turning circle: 34.4 feet
Cargo space: 19.3 cubic feet
Curb weight: 2778 pounds
Fuel capacity: 12.7 gallons
EPA mileage: City 26 / Highway 34
Wheel Base: 100.4 inches
Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles bumper to bumper
Also consider: Dodge Caliber, Honda Element, Nissan Cube, Scion xB, and Suzuki SX4
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