• Pros

• A practical alternative to a small SUV. Versatile, with good passenger space for a small vehicle, and decent cargo room with the rear seats folded.
• Good, upright driving position.
• This is a vastly more refined Kia Soul than the previous iteration.
• While the old one felt like a tin can, this redesigned Soul has far more solidity. Upgraded materials and sound insulation make this a vehicle you can easily live with.
• The ride was on the stiff side, but handling was predictable and fairly refined for a small car.
• Use of space is very good, with the squared-off hatchback providing maximum cargo room for its size.
• Easy to get in and out of. It’s just the right height for many people.
• It can be had with all the bells and whistles you’d want. Our loaded test car came with very comfortable, heated and cooled leather seats.
• Surprisingly quiet and stable on the highway.
• Very good visibility front and side. Big screen back-up camera is a nice touch.
• Available, huge sunroof.

• Cons

• Decent, but not great mileage. EPA rated at 26 overall.
• No all-wheel-drive option, for those who need it.
• Backup camera (pretty much required due to large rear pillars) is an extra cost option.
• Because of the short length of the Soul, cargo space in the rear is quite limited unless you fold down a rear seat or two.
• LED disco “party lights” around the stereo speakers are a very high-school, tacky touch (fortunately, can be turned off). We wonder if this car will be like the old, boxy Scion xB: Designed to be cool and appeal to young buyers, but ends up attracting older buyers despite its looks, for its practicality.
• Polarizing looks. Some people love it. Some people wouldn’t be caught dead in it. We find it kind of ugly. But then again, we’re kind of ugly and people still talk to us. For those who like the looks, or can get past the looks, there’s a lot to like here.

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