A First Look at the 2023 Kia Soul

The 2023 Kia Soul is a very affordable CUV crossover boasting extensive standard safety technologies that one would not normally expect on a vehicle in its price range. The CUV has driving characteristics that are very close to those of a sedan while offering a lot more functionality.

Overview

The 2023 Soul has always been boxy and adorable. The 2023 Soul still keeps the fun appearance with slight changes that seem to grow larger as you get closer to the CUV. Highlights include the design of the headlights, a newly fashioned bumper, upgraded tail lights, and a shapely fascia. Larger 17-inch and 18-inch wheels are standard on the EX and GT-Line, respectively, and give the CUV a taller ride height.

Model Options

The 2023 Soul is initially available in four models. There are rumors of the release of an additional GT-Line Tech floating around, but nothing official has been announced. The four modes are the LX, S, GT-Line with its appearance package, and the EX, which comes with all the interior comfort, luxury, and tech you could want.

Engine and Drivetrain

All 2023 Soul models are powered by a DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder that generates 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The 2.0-liter is paired with an intelligent variable transmission (IVT) that drives the front wheels. The IVT gives better driver feedback by mimicking the sensation of gear changes, and Drive Mode Select changes the way the engine, IVT, and air conditioning system work together to optimize driving style.

Extreme Mileage

The LX, the S, and the GT-Line offer an incredible 28 mpg around town and 33 mpg when cruising along at the optimal speed on the highway. The top-tier EX models offer slightly higher mileage at 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Passengers and Cargo

The shape of the 2023 makes it particularly easy to park and handle in the tight spaces of urban areas. When you get inside, it’s amazing that the CUV offers 120.9 cubic feet of passenger space and a total of 62.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seat folded down. Rear passengers have 38.8 inches of legroom and 54.7 inches of shoulder room. The 2023 Soul seats a maximum of five passengers.

Technology and Safety

All models of the 2023 Soul come with a standard suite of advanced collision-avoidance technologies. Over 20 driver-assistance technologies are featured on all models. Available driver aids for the 2023 Soul LX include rear cross-traffic collision mitigation, lane-change assist, and navigation-based smart-cruise control. Driver and passenger safety technology and equipment are almost the same across all models of the 2023 Soul.

Kia has packed a lot into every model of the 2023 Soul. With only a few thousand dollars separating each model, the GT-Line and the EX models are hard to resist. Get in touch with Crain Kia of Sherwood today to arrange your introduction to the 2023 Soul.

Posted in Sherwood Kia Dealer | No Comments »