My test vehicle was the mid-to-high-range Soul 4U which boasted the larger 2.0L I-4 engine which produces 142hp, and was coupled to the optional 4-speed automatic transmission. The 4U package also adds some smart looking 18 inch rims, leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel, power tilt & sliding sunroof, sport tuned suspension, and a rather nice premium sound system. Yet even after all that, my test vehicle only came out at $21,195. Above this there’s an available Retro version, and for those real wild and funky individuals, the Soul “Burner” sports model which tops the range at $22,195.

One available feature which I simply have to mention is the illuminated front door speakers which emit a red ringed glow. This can actually be set to work in time with the music, or simply set to pulse like a heartbeat. Yes I know, it’s a gimmick, but it’s a super-cool looking one and the youngsters are going to love it!

All Soul models are based on a front wheel drive platform and my test vehicle’s 2.0L power plant offered ample power for the vehicle, although I have to say that I found it not the sweetest sounding motor, particularly at high revs. I would also possibly suggest going for the manual shifter over the 4-speed automatic which was fitted to my test vehicle as the latter is certainly not the most refined unit that I’ve ever encountered.

Having said that, priced as the Soul is, it would be rather unfair of me to expect ultimate perfection in all aspects of the vehicle. What I will say is that the Soul drives extremely well. The higher-than-most-cars seating position allows for superb visibility through the front screen and apart from the minor blind spots in the two rear corners, it’s a vehicle which allows for fairly decent all round visibility.

The positioning of the wheels at the far corners of the vehicle and the front independent McPherson struts provide above average cornering capabilities, and the ride quality is extremely good for this type of vehicle, especially when considering that rear independent suspension was left off the vehicle to allow for greater interior space.

Safety comes as standard in the Soul as along with a host of airbags (Front impact, Side seat impact, and Side curtain airbags) and all models, apart from the base 1.6L version, feature standard ABS, Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control. 

Fuel numbers are listed as 6.6L/100 Hwy and 8.5L/100 City (2.0L Auto as tested), although I’m sure that the figures for the standard transmission models could shave a little off that.

All in all, the new Soul from Kia is a great package and I can see this vehicle selling very well in Canada. It has the looks, the sticker price is right, and it’s offered with one of the best warranties in the business. What’s not to like??