Kia Soul (09 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 05 January 2010
The Kia Soul is a practical small car. It's not much longer or wider than a Vauxhall Corsa, but it's usefully spacious and stands out for people who'd rather choose something more distinctive than a run-of-the-mill small hatchback. There is a choice of a petrol or diesel engine and sitting above the normal trim levels, the Soul launched with three different limited editions: Samba, Shaker and Burner - reflecting its youthful image. Plenty of rear passenger space, a decent boot plus a well put together interior make the Soul a great small family car, while a smooth ride and light steering make it ideal for town and city driving. In January 2010 the standard warranty on new models was upped from three years to seven years, making it even better value.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Buying new

Kia expects to sell about 3,000 Souls in a full year, which means there will be little pressure for sales staff to register them. Expect no more than a very modest discount on a Soul, or instead favourable terms with one of the option or accessories pack. The car still represents good value though, helped by the impressive seven-year warranty which is unrivalled by any other manufacturer.

Buy a new Kia Soul and save 18% on selected models

4 out of 5

Buying used

With the exception of steel wheels on the entry-level Soul 1, all models are well equipped and should be desirable, although the Samba, Shaker and Burner models with their individual themes will not have the broad appeal of a Soul 2.

  • Boot/Load Space Kia Soul (09 on)
  • Interior Kia Soul (09 on)

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See 129 used Kia Souls for sale, starting at £5,977

3.5 out of 5

Selling

Soul 2 models will be easiest to sell, and the diesel is a more pleasant engine than the revvy 1.6 petrol. All cars come with a long warranty which can be transferred to subsequent owners - a great selling point. Originally the Soul came with a five-year warranty, but in January 2010 this was replaced by an even better seven-year scheme.