Kia Soul review: The best used small SUV

The 2022 model year saw sales of the Kia Soul up nearly 20% year-over-year. Updates for 2022 include a bold new Kia badge design, more standard features across more trim grades (including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless charging and automatic climate control), and dual USB charging ports. 

The 2022 Kia Soul was also recognized by Car and Driver with an Editors Choice award, and an 81/100 score from J.D. Power and Associates places the 2022 Kia Soul firmly among the highest-performing models based on owner reports and expert evaluations.

Model year 2023 brought a refresh to the Soul, adding enhanced looks to its front and rear fascias, bolder colour options and enhanced safety technology, with features like Blind Spot Collision Avoidance (BCA) and Rear Cross Collision Avoidance (RCCA) becoming standard on more Kia Soul trim grades.

The Kia Soul engine: What’s really inside this used car?

Efficient four-cylinder engines are found between the Soul’s front wheels, including high-performing turbocharged options. An electric version is available, too. Though you won’t find any models equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD), the Soul delivers strongly on what most Canadian shoppers want: a roomy and flexible vehicle that’s easy on fuel and ready for any adventure. Pet owners take note: the low cargo floor height makes canine jump-in a cinch.

In 2017, a new 1.6-litre turbo engine joined the lineup, with 201 horsepower. Though most used models will have an automatic or dual-clutch transmission, be sure to search for a used Kia Soul with manual gearbox if you like to row your own gears. Manual five- or six-speed transmissions were available, commonly on more basic units.

By the way, top trim grades included the SX and SX Luxury, while the LX and EX were more basic units.

Kia Soul issues to know about

While excellence permeates many aspects of the Soul experience, there is room for improvement.

Aside from the CVT transmission, which is better than in many similar cars, the Soul could benefit from snappier responses, and I wouldn’t miss the slurring sensation with shifting gears. AWD is still not available, despite high buyer demand for that feature. Sending power to all four wheels would make what is already a hugely practical vehicle even more so.

While some earlier units suffered from engine and transmission problems, a recent used Kia Soul with plenty of remaining warranty coverage should see new drivers backed up with space, flexibility, expressive style and an appealing asking price for a well-equipped and versatile runabout. If you’re thinking of buying an earlier or higher-mileage unit, budgeting for extended warranty coverage may be a smart idea, especially if the service history of the vehicle is unknown.