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2012 Kia Soul First Impressions

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Khatir Soltani
Funky Just Got Better
I found that the last generation was surprisingly adequate for power, and these two new engine options with the slight increase in power are more than enough. These new powertrains give the Soul an injection of sportiness as well as improved fuel economy.

The posted numbers for fuel consumption with the 1.6L engine, city and highway, have improved over last year. Combined with the 6-speed manual, the Soul is rated at 7.4 L/100km in the city and 5.6 on the highway. The Soul ECO, available later on, will boast ratings of 7.0/5.4 L/100km.

Still in trim names of 2u and 4u, consumers can choose from eleven exterior colours. If you were a fan of the Mint Green, Kia now has Olive and Misty Green to choose from. I would have said that I would never like the look of a green car, but the funky Soul seems to suit it. Truth be told, if you are going to get a vehicle as unique as this, you might as well get it in a colour that stands out, too!

2012 Kia Soul interior
The 4u Retro comes with a beige tartan cloth and matching beige dash. (Photo: Kia)

The interior has a few choices as well. Very attractive-looking black with grey cloth is available on the 2u or 4u. The 4u Retro comes with a beige tartan cloth and matching beige dash. My favourite is the 4u Burner that comes with a sexy red and black interior. The luxury trim comes with tasty black on black leather.

Not only does the Soul look good and drive well, it comes with a long list of standard safety equipment; front-seat active headrests, six airbags, ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), TCS (traction Control System) and HAC (Hill-stat Assist Control).

The Soul is happy zipping around corners or cruising on the highway. With its high roofline, the interior has a very roomy feel to it. The seating position is wonderful with a great outward view. Steering is light and the wider track helps it to feel planted when taking a corner. The ride feels a more refined than the outgoing model and the interior is quieter. I would have no problems spending several hours behind the wheel of this Soul.

Starting at $16,595 for the base 1.6 and just over $25,000 for the loaded 2.0L model, the Soul has a lot to offer for a good price. Still one of the most unique-looking vehicles on the road, this funky little urban crossover has a lot to offer a for a lot of different people.
2012 Kia Soul 1.6L
kia soul 2012
2012 Kia Soul 1.6L
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Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada