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Kia Soul'ster Pickup concept at NAIAS

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Khatir Soltani
Kia's urban 'crossover', the Soul, is being eagerly anticipated by shoppers after an affordable, stylish and practical machine with both street smart looks and flexibility. Set for a European launch in early 2009, the Soul will start sales overseas with diesel power and a selection of customization and personalization options including a moonroof, fog lamps and an audio system upgrade.

Kia Soul

Owners can also add in a Bluetooth phone system, alloy wheels, leather trim and metal interior accents. There's even a Soul Sport model that bolts on a tuned suspension and various body upgrades, too. Very competitive quality and pricing is promised.

Though the Soul is set for sale in North America a bit later this year, Kia has just shown a spin-off concept at the North American International Auto Show. Their highly rumored Soul 'pickup' variant, the Soul'ster, isn't just a model repackage, either. Kia says that it shows the flexibility and versatility of the original Soul design.

Soul will do battle with the Nissan Cube and Scion xB when it goes on sale.

Kia Soul'ster

photo:Philippe Champoux
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