The Kia Soul EV has carved a unique niche in the electric car market. Its boxy, funky design, surprisingly spacious interior, and impressive efficiency have made it a favorite among those seeking an alternative to the conventional electric car. So, let’s take the Soul EV for a spin and see if it deserves a spot in your garage.
Design: Love it or Leave it, But Never Ignore it
The Soul EV is anything but boring. Its boxy silhouette, accentuated by bold lines and funky color options, makes it instantly recognizable and undeniably polarizing. You’ll either love its quirky charm or find it too outlandish. However, one thing’s for sure: it never blends into the crowd.
Performance: Punchy Powertrain and Impressive Range
Kia offers two powertrain options for the Soul EV:
- Standard Range: This version packs a 136-horsepower electric motor and a 58.2 kWh battery, providing a generous WLTP-rated range of up to 243 miles. Perfect for everyday commutes and weekend adventures.
- Long Range: For those seeking maximum range, the Long Range Soul EV boasts a 204-horsepower motor and a larger 77.4 kWh battery, offering a class-leading WLTP-rated range of up to 280 miles. This makes it a viable option for longer journeys and road trips.
Both versions offer zippy acceleration and a smooth, comfortable driving experience. You won’t be setting any track records, but the Soul EV provides ample power for city driving and highway cruising.
Interior: Spacious and Practical with Quirky Touches
Step inside the Soul EV, and you’re greeted by a surprisingly spacious and comfortable cabin. The boxy exterior translates to ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The cargo space is impressive as well, offering 416 liters with the rear seats up and 1,339 liters with them folded down. The interior materials are decent, while the design remains true to the car’s quirky character, with interesting patterns and color accents.
Technology: Simple but Functional
The Soul EV doesn’t bombard you with cutting-edge tech gadgets. Instead, it focuses on providing the essentials with a user-friendly interface. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system handles most vehicle functions and offers smartphone connectivity and navigation. While not the most sophisticated system, it’s intuitive and does the job. The Soul EV also comes equipped with a suite of driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Kia Soul EV Rivals: Quirky Contenders and Mainstream Options
The Soul EV faces competition from both quirky rivals and mainstream electric SUVs:
- Hyundai Kona Electric: Shares a platform with the Soul EV and offers similar performance and range, but in a more conventional SUV body style.
- Nissan Leaf: A well-established electric car with a longer range than the standard Soul EV but less spacious interior.
- Peugeot e-2008: Offers a stylish alternative with good range and tech features, but at a slightly higher price point.
Kia Soul EV Price:
- UK: Starting at £34,995 (after government grant)
- Europe: Starting at €36,000 (before government incentives)
Verdict: A Funky and Spacious Electric Ride for the Unconventional Soul
The Kia Soul EV isn’t for everyone. Its boxy design might not appeal to everyone, and its technology might feel slightly dated compared to some rivals. However, if you’re looking for a spacious, efficient, and affordable electric car with a unique personality, the Soul EV is a compelling choice. Its impressive range, comfortable interior, and quirky charm make it a standout option for those who want to stand out from the crowd.
Additional Points to Consider:
- The Soul EV comes with a generous 7-year/100,000-mile warranty.
- DC fast charging allows for a 10% to 80% charge in just 45 minutes.
- The Soul EV offers multiple driver-selectable regenerative braking modes for increased efficiency.
