Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Kia Soul II (facelift 2016) 2.0 GDI (161 Hp) Automatic
Overall Rating
Kia Soul:
The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Kia from 2008 to 2025. Often described and marketed as a crossover since its introduction, the Soul was a hatchback with a boxy proportion and tall roof, maximizing interior space. Despite its SUV-like styling, the Soul was exclusively available with front-wheel drive.
Kia presented the Soul in 2006 as a concept model at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and presented the production model at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. During its introduction, Kia said the Soul was aimed at the North American market and targeted at buyers in the 18-35 year-old range....(Read more on Wikipedia)
II (facelift 2016) Overview:
Kia Soul (II (facelift 2016)). With 203 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.4 l/100km). With a weight of 1437 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A vehicle that combines characteristics of SUVs and hatchbacks for versatility. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
2.0 GDI (161 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Provides smooth, linear power delivery suitable for most driving conditions. Lacks the punch of the T-GDI but is perfectly capable.
Fuel Economy
The least efficient petrol option, especially with the automatic transmission. Best for those prioritizing simplicity over fuel savings.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Distinctive and quirky styling stands out.
- • Spacious interior for its compact footprint.
- • Variety of efficient and powerful engine options, including an EV.
- • Good value for money with generous standard features.
- • Comfortable ride quality for daily commuting.
Cons:
- • Limited trunk space compared to some rivals.
- • Some interior plastics feel hard.
- • Rear visibility can be compromised by thick C-pillars.
- • Higher-end models can get pricey.
- • EV range might be insufficient for longer trips by modern standards.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(II (facelift 2016): 2016 - 2019).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Kia |
| Model: | Soul |
| Generation: | II (facelift 2016) |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.0 GDI (161 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 2017 |
| End of production: | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Crossover |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 161 Hp @ 6200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 80.5 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 203 Nm @ 4700 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 1999 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Compression ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 9.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.7 l/100 km |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.1 kg/Nm, 141.3 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1437 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 878 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 238 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 54 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4140 mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1800 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1613 mm [5mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2570 mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2100 mm |
| Front track: | 1560-1567 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1572-1580 mm |
| Front overhang: | 840 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 730 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 150 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 10.6 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
Behind the wheel of the Kia Soul. How does it handle on the road?