2019 Kia Soul :: Quick Spin

Engine: 2.0 Liter 4 Cylinder

Horsepower and Torque: 147 hp // 132 ft/lbs

MPG: 28 as observed

MSRP: $17,490

Text: Yousef Alvi

This is the original hamstermobile.  You guys remember the ad don’t you?  If not see below:

Unfortunately (or fortunately) that ad has never left the zeitgeist of the motoring public and for that reason it has known as the ‘hamster car’. It’s a shame for two reasons.  One, I think I’m literally the only person that loved the ads and two, the Kia Soul is a fantastic and woefully underrated vehicle.  No other vehicle in its class combines practicality, comfort, style, price and performance in one cohesive package like the Soul. 

For 2019 the Kia Soul sees a major update.  The new front end is a bit ummm squinty but the rear and sides look amazing.  The interior is still a marvel of packaging goodness providing generous amounts of space abound.  Combining decent material quality, comfortable seats, and a wonderful and easy to use infotainment system…the Soul is a winner.

Powering the new Soul is a combination of engines.  From all electric to naturally aspirated to turbo charged goodness.  No matter what powers the new Soul, it’s an efficient hauler and our tester was getting close to 28mpg overall.  

So what do I think of the 2019 Kia Soul?  It’s still one of the best cars in it’s segment.