What Is the 2015 Kia Soul?
The 2015 Kia Soul is a compact front-wheel-drive hatchback with seating for five. It's offered in three trims: Base, Plus and Exclaim. There's also an electric Kia Soul EV, which is covered separately. Competitors include the Scion xB, Mini Countryman and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport – vehicles that similarly seem like they might be SUVs but also might not be.
What's New on the 2015 Kia Soul?
The optional UVO eService communication system adds geo fencing, speed alert, curfew alert and a driving score function.
How Does the 2015 Kia Soul Compare to Other Compact Hatchbacks?
The Kia Soul was redesigned in 2014, adding higher-quality finishes to the cabin and overall broader appeal. Compared with the Fiat 500L, Mini Countryman and Scion xB, it offers more cargo space. Its affordable entry price makes it a solid option for younger drivers searching for a functional yet funky car.
What Features in the 2015 Kia Soul Are Most Important?
Under the hood of the 2015 Soul you'll find a 130-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual transmission. Driver-adjustable power-steering assistance and front-wheel drive are also standard. Performance options include a 164-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Standard features include 16-inch wheels with covers, body-colored mirror housings and door handles, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, a 60/40-split folding backseat, stereo with USB port and MP3 jack, air conditioning and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. Available features include 16-, 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof, xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights, LED taillights, fog lights, a cargo cover, heated front and rear seats, ventilated front seats, automatic air conditioning, cruise control, illuminated speakers, push-button start, a heated steering wheel, Infinity premium stereo and a navigation system with an 8-inch touchscreen.
As required in all new vehicles from this year, the 2015 Kia Soul comes standard with front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system. Other standard safety features include front-seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. A backup camera is optional.
Should I Buy the 2015 Kia Soul?
Cabin quality is impressive for the money, and you can choose from a variety of available upscale features like a panoramic moonroof and a heated steering wheel. All-wheel drive isn't offered at all, which could deter drivers living in harsher climates. Style-wise, the Soul is as boxy as ever with smoothed edges here and there, but the body-colored liftgate panel looks out of place. And while its cargo space outshines some competitors, it's still on the modest side.
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