Kia Soul II 1.6 GDI (132 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

8 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 4.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 is a hatchback with a box proportion and tall roof, which are designed to maximize its interior space. Despite its SUV-like styling, the Soul was never available with all-wheel drive, instead it is exclusively a front-wheel drive vehicle.
The Soul first appeared in 2006 in the form of a concept model displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The production model made its debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2008. During its introduction, Kia stated that the Soul is aimed at the North American market, and targeted towards buyers in the 18 to 35-year old range....(Read more on Wikipedia)

II Overview:

Kia Soul (II). With 161 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.6 l/100km). Weighing only 1245 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11.7 s). The top speed reaches 180 km/h. A vehicle that combines characteristics of SUVs and hatchbacks for versatility. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2014
Adult Occupant 84%
Stars 4
Expert Note:
The Kia Soul II achieved a respectable 4-star Euro NCAP rating in 2014, demonstrating solid adult and child occupant protection for its class.

1.6 GDI (132 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

The automatic transmission further blunts the GDI's performance, making it feel sluggish, especially when loaded or attempting quick overtakes.

Fuel Economy

Highest fuel consumption among the ICE options at 7.6 l/100 km, making it less economical for regular use compared to other trims.

Best Use Case: City driving for those who prioritize automatic convenience above all else, and where performance and economy are secondary concerns.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Distinctive and unique styling stands out from competitors
  • • Spacious and practical interior for its compact size
  • • Available all-electric (EV) model offers zero-emission driving
  • • Good standard features and value for money
  • • Comfortable ride quality for urban environments

Cons:

  • • Not the most engaging or dynamic driving experience
  • • 1.6 GDI engines can feel underpowered and noisy when pushed
  • • Limited boot space with the rear seats in use
  • • Some interior plastics can feel hard to the touch
  • • Rear torsion beam suspension can be less refined than multi-link setups

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I: 2009 - 2014).

General:
Brand:Kia
Model:Soul
Generation:II
Modification (Engine):1.6 GDI (132 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:2014
End of production:2016
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Crossover
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:132 Hp @ 6300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:83 Hp/l [35mm more]
Torque:161 Nm @ 4850 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:G4FD More details about the engine G4FD
Engine displacement:1591
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 oil capacity:3.6 l
Coolant:5.1 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.6 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:11.7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:11.7 sec
Maximum speed:180 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.4 kg/Hp, 106 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.7 kg/Nm, 129.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:11.1 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1245
Max. weight:1850
Max load:605
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:878 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:238 l
Fuel tank capacity:54 l
Size:
Length:4140 mm mm [35mm more]
Width:1800 mm mm [15mm more]
Height:1618 mm mm [43mm less]
Wheelbase:2570 mm mm [20mm more]
Ride height (ground clearance):143 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.6 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size205/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18
Wheel rims size16; 17; 18

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Kia Soul?