KIA SOUL

The KIA SOUL has been around for about six years now and while it hasn't set the world on fire in sales, it is still a very practical option for someone looking for a small hatch/suv.
Its upright boxy lines have been refined in the latest version and it's quite pleasing to the eye, if a little quirky for some. It's actually a lot bigger than you'd expect.
When first released there were numerous decorative decal options and interior trim tweaks intended for the younger buyer. That's gone now, with KIA targeting older drivers who will appreciate the lower hip level access.

There was also a diesel version, but that's also gone.. the two litre four cylinder petrol motor becoming the only motive force.

Incredibly (considering its price) and most welcome,the SOUL has not one, but two gas struts supporting the bonnet, shaming many more expensive makes that still use an old "el cheapo" manual support rod.
Hooray for common sense.

The front wheel drive only,SOUL is a much underrated vehicle. It's roomy, well built, quiet and peppy. It's built on the Cerato platform, and that's a good thing. (see the KIA Cerato review elsewhere in this blog.)
The SOUL rides smoothly over most road imperfections and handles corners with an eagerness that belies its upright shape. 
Around town  the SOUL is eerily quiet, and that refinement is also evident at highway speeds.There's no wind whistle from the outside mirrors nor any intrusive tyre roar. KIA has done a great job reducing NVH in the SOUL. 

Quality, soft touch surfaces in the cabin and aesthetically pleasing dashboard layout are worlds away from the cheap and cheerful perception some might have about the KIA range.
Standard kit includes a reversing camera, cruise, Bluetooth connection, adjustable steering feel and a reasonably good sound system... but there's no sat nav option, nor keyless option..
The central touch screen for audio and camera is quite small, but effective nonetheless.
The engine produces 113 kw and 191 nm torque, and that's good for a 0 to 100 k sprint in about 10 seconds. More than enough to keep pace with everyone else. Fuel economy is also good.. averaging around 8 litres per 100 kilometres.
This car had the six speed automatic gearbox, and it delivered smooth and positive shifts
There are no steering wheel paddles.. manual selection is made with the console lever.
The headlights are a bit dim for my liking. They'll get you by, but could be brighter.
At the rear however, the tail lights are gigantic.

No one will miss spotting you at night when approaching from behind.
Storage spaces abound in the doors of the SOUL, as well as a large and useful glovebox.
The luggage area is also large, and beneath the floor is a divider for loose odds and ends.
Visibility is excellent thanks to the large glasshouse and the SOUL's upright stance.The doors shut with a quality thunk.
There are power windows all round, but the only auto of the four, is the "down" button for the driver.
After driving the SOUL for a week it sort of grew on me and I came to appreciate its slight quirkiness and practicality. Try one for yourself.. I think you will begin to feel the same. The KIA SOUL auto sells for around 25K.
If you want something a bit different from the run of the mill, the SOUL could become your soulmate.
Peter Sellen