The all-new 2020 Kia Soul retains its iconic boxy shape, but gains a new platform, newly sculpted lines and headlights and taillights, and new interior technologies. The styling is familiar yet modern and can be further individualized with unique trim levels that span from sporty to rugged and outdoorsy.
What's New for 2020
The Kia Soul is all-new for 2020. Now in its third generation, the small crossover is only slightly longer and retains its formula of funky practicality. The trim naming structure is completely different, and there are even new trims to entice the urban adventurer to explore or the driving enthusiast to hit the imaginary apex through an intersection.
Choosing your Kia Soul
The five-passenger Soul retains its four-cylinder engine and front-wheel-drive layout that's efficient on the road and in regard to interior space. Increased use of advanced high strength steel and optimized crash structure have Kia expecting top safety testing marks.
The updated chassis also allows for better fine-tuning of the ride quality with the Soul targeting a new level of refinement. A new GT-Line Turbo gains sport tuned suspension, larger brakes, and a more powerful engine.
Most of the lineup is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's rated at 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The Soul routes power solely to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission and earns an EPA-estimated 27 miles per gallon city, 33 mpg highway, and 30 combined. The six-speed manual transmission, which is standard on the base model, is slightly less efficient at 25/31/27 mpg (city/highway/combined).
The top-tier GT-Line Turbo trim includes a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that's mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The engine’s power curves peak at 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, while fuel economy checks in at 27/32/29 mpg.
There are six trim levels for the Soul:
Among the six trims in the 2020 Kia Soul lineup, the S strikes us as having the best balance between styling, features, and cost. Equipped with a near-full suite of active safety tech, the Soul S also enjoys a level of connectivity to make any drive a bit more enjoyable.