Several concept cars have been introduced under the Kia Soul name since 2006, but this is the first Soul to be available on the US market. All-new for the 2010 model year, the Kia Soul is a subcompact hatchback wagon, built on an updated version of the Kia Rio platform. It offers many opportunities for customization, including unusual fashion colors and design details.
The 2010 Kia Soul is available in four trim levels. The base trim includes 15-inch wheels, air conditioning, power windows and locks, 4-speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player and satellite radio, and rear drum brakes. The Soul ''+'' trim features 4-wheel disc brakes and 16-inch wheels, and adds keyless entry, Bluetooth connectivity, height-adjustable driver's seat, and an upgraded stereo. A sunroof, fog lights, and further upgrades to the sound system are optional on the + trim, and standard on the Soul ''!'' trim. The Soul ! also steps up to 18-inch wheels and two-tone upholstery. The Soul Sport model provides a sportier suspension and noticeable detailing inside and out, including red and black upholstery.
The 2010 Kia Soul is available in an assortment of conspicuous colors, including the Denim Soul edition, which employs the + trim and features distinctive paint and wheels.
As a base power plant, the 2010 Kia Soul employs a 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. The +, !, and Sport trims are equipped with a 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter, inline 4-cylinder engine, with a 4-speed automatic transmission available as an alternative to the manual gearbox.
Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, front side air bags, and curtain side air bags. In government crash tests, the NHTSA gave the 2010 Kia Soul five stars (out of five) for driver and passenger protection in front-impact tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2010 Kia Soul ''Acceptable'' ratings in frontal-offset and side-impact tests, and ''Good'' for rearâimpact protection.
Depending on trim level, starting MSRPs for the 2010 Kia Soul ranged from $13,300 to $17,900.
