2015 Kia Soul Electric Car Reviews What You Need to Know

The 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car delivers a practical, fun-to-drive EV experience with a surprisingly spacious interior and peppy acceleration for city commuting. Boasting a 93-mile range and a user-friendly infotainment system, it stands out in its class for value and reliability, though fast-charging limitations may deter long-distance drivers. Ideal for eco-conscious urbanites, the Soul EV proves that efficiency doesn’t have to sacrifice style or comfort.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient range: Delivers 93 miles per charge, ideal for city driving.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in 30 mins with DC fast charging.
• Spacious interior: Ample room for passengers and cargo despite compact size.
• Low maintenance: Fewer moving parts reduce long-term ownership costs.
• Tech features: Standard touchscreen, navigation, and smartphone integration.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive cost with federal tax incentives available.

Introduction: The Electric Revolution Meets the Boxy Soul

Remember the first time you saw a Kia Soul? That quirky, boxy design stood out like a neon sign in a sea of sedans. Fast forward to 2015, and Kia did something unexpected—they electrified it. The 2015 Kia Soul electric car wasn’t just a gimmick; it was Kia’s bold step into the future of urban mobility. As someone who’s spent years reviewing cars, I’ll admit, I was skeptical. Could a car with such a playful personality handle the serious business of being electric?

But after test-driving the 2015 Kia Soul EV, I realized it wasn’t trying to be a Tesla or a Nissan Leaf. It was carving its own lane—literally and figuratively. With its unique design, surprisingly peppy acceleration, and a price tag that didn’t break the bank, the Soul EV was more than just a novelty. It was a statement: electric cars don’t have to be boring. Whether you’re a city dweller tired of gas prices or a first-time EV buyer looking for something approachable, the 2015 Kia Soul electric car reviews reveal a vehicle that’s as practical as it is fun. Let’s dive in and see if it’s the right fit for you.

Design and Interior: Quirky, Practical, and Surprisingly Roomy

Exterior: The Soul’s Signature Look, Now Electric

The 2015 Kia Soul EV kept the iconic boxy silhouette that made the gas-powered Soul a hit. But Kia added subtle touches to signal its electric nature. The front grille is sealed (no need for airflow with an electric motor), and there’s a unique “floating roof” design with a two-tone paint option. The charging port is cleverly hidden behind the Kia logo, which flips open—a neat party trick that never gets old.

One thing I loved? The LED daytime running lights. They give the Soul EV a futuristic vibe without being over the top. And while the design won’t appeal to everyone (some still call it “the toaster”), it’s undeniably distinctive. If you’re tired of cookie-cutter EVs, the Soul stands out in a good way.

Interior: Space, Comfort, and Tech

Inside, the Soul EV feels more premium than its price tag suggests. The cabin is surprisingly spacious, with enough head and legroom for four adults. The rear seats fold flat, giving you 49.5 cubic feet of cargo space—perfect for weekend getaways or hauling groceries. But what really impressed me was the attention to detail. The blue ambient lighting (a nod to its electric nature) and the leather-wrapped steering wheel felt luxurious.

The tech is where the Soul EV shines. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes navigation, Bluetooth, and Kia’s UVO EV services, which let you monitor battery status, pre-heat or cool the cabin remotely, and even locate charging stations. The only gripe? The touchscreen can be a bit laggy, especially in colder weather. A quick tip: pair your phone via Bluetooth to minimize screen use.

Pro tip: If you’re buying used, check the condition of the heated seats and steering wheel. They’re a godsend in winter, but replacements can be pricey.

Performance and Driving Experience: Zippy, Quiet, and City-Friendly

Power and Acceleration

With an 81.4 kWh battery pack and a 109-horsepower electric motor, the 2015 Soul EV isn’t a speed demon. But it doesn’t need to be. The instant torque from the electric motor means it feels zippy in stop-and-go traffic. I remember merging onto a busy highway—the Soul EV got up to speed smoothly, with no lag. It’s no sports car, but for city driving, it’s more than adequate.

The real standout is the driving experience. Electric cars are known for being quiet, and the Soul EV takes it to another level. With no engine noise, you hear every little sound—the hum of the motor, the tires on the road, even the wind. It’s oddly soothing. The suspension is tuned for comfort, so potholes and rough roads are absorbed nicely. Just don’t expect a sporty ride; the Soul EV is all about ease and efficiency.

Regenerative Braking: A Learning Curve

The Soul EV has a one-pedal driving mode thanks to regenerative braking. When you lift off the accelerator, the car slows down significantly, capturing energy to recharge the battery. At first, it feels weird—like you’re riding a bike with a handbrake. But once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. I found myself using the brake pedal less than 20% of the time in city driving.

One quirk: the regenerative braking is adjustable via steering-wheel paddles. I kept mine on the highest setting (great for energy recovery) but switched to low when driving on highways to avoid jerky deceleration. It’s a small detail, but it shows Kia thought about real-world usability.

Range and Charging: Real-World Expectations

EPA Range vs. Reality

The EPA rated the 2015 Soul EV at 93 miles on a full charge. Sounds good, right? But real-world range depends on driving habits, weather, and terrain. In my testing, I averaged 80-85 miles in mixed city/highway driving. In winter (with the heater cranked up), that dropped to 65-70 miles. If you’re planning long road trips, the Soul EV isn’t ideal. But for daily commutes under 50 miles, it’s perfect.

Here’s a practical example: I drove from downtown to the suburbs (about 25 miles round-trip) with the AC on. The battery dropped by 30%. That’s a solid buffer for unexpected errands or detours.

Charging Options and Times

The Soul EV comes with a standard Level 1 charger (120V), which is painfully slow—it takes 24 hours for a full charge. Most owners upgrade to a Level 2 charger (240V), which cuts that time to 4-5 hours. If you have a garage or dedicated parking spot, installing a Level 2 charger is a no-brainer. I did it for $600 (including installation) and never looked back.

For public charging, the Soul EV supports DC fast charging (CHADEMO standard). A 30-minute fast charge can give you 80% battery, which is handy for longer trips. But fast-charging stations were rare in 2015, so plan your stops carefully. Apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint are lifesavers for finding nearby stations.

Tip: Always keep a Level 1 charger in your trunk for emergencies. I once got stranded at a friend’s house with a dead battery—the Level 1 charger got me enough juice to reach a nearby station.

Cost of Ownership: Savings, Maintenance, and Incentives

Upfront Price and Tax Credits

The 2015 Soul EV started at around $33,700, but the federal tax credit of $7,500 brought it down to $26,200. Some states (like California) added extra incentives, making it even more affordable. Compared to the gas-powered Soul ($15,000-$20,000), it’s a big jump. But when you factor in lower fuel and maintenance costs, the math starts to make sense.

Fuel and Maintenance Savings

Let’s do the math: The average gas car gets 25 MPG. At $3.50/gallon, driving 15,000 miles a year costs $2,100 in gas. The Soul EV? At $0.12/kWh, it’s about $550/year in electricity. That’s a $1,550 annual savings. Over five years, you save $7,750—almost enough to cover the price difference.

Maintenance is another win. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust system. The Soul EV requires tire rotations, brake fluid changes, and cabin air filter replacements—simple and cheap. Kia also included a 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, which gives peace of mind.

Here’s a quick breakdown of estimated annual costs:

Expense	2015 Kia Soul EV	Gas-Powered Soul
Fuel/Electricity	$550	$2,100
Maintenance	$200	$500
Total	$750	$2,600

Insurance and Depreciation

Insurance for the Soul EV is slightly higher than the gas version (about 10-15% more) due to its advanced tech and battery costs. But depreciation is the real wildcard. In 2015, EV depreciation was steep—some models lost 50% of their value in three years. The Soul EV held up better (around 35-40% depreciation), but it’s still a consideration if you plan to sell later.

Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind for EV Buyers

Crash Test Ratings and Features

The 2015 Soul EV didn’t undergo a separate crash test from the gas-powered Soul, which earned a 4-star NHTSA overall rating. It comes with standard safety features like ABS, traction control, and six airbags. The optional Advanced Technology Package adds a backup camera, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring—worth the upgrade if you’re buying used.

One standout feature is the “EV mode” display, which shows real-time energy flow. It’s not just for show; it helps you drive more efficiently. For example, you can see if the AC is draining too much battery or if regenerative braking is working optimally.

Reliability and Common Issues

The Soul EV has a solid reliability record, but it’s not flawless. Common issues reported by owners include:

• 12V battery drain: The auxiliary battery (which powers lights and electronics) can die unexpectedly. A quick fix is to keep a portable jumper in your trunk.
• Infotainment glitches: The touchscreen occasionally freezes. A software update from Kia dealers usually resolves this.
• Charging port wear: Frequent use can loosen the charging port. Check for a snug fit when buying used.

The good news? Most issues are covered under the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. And Kia’s customer service is generally praised for being responsive.

Conclusion: Is the 2015 Kia Soul EV Right for You?

The 2015 Kia Soul electric car reviews paint a clear picture: this is a fun, practical, and surprisingly capable EV for urban drivers. It won’t win any races, and its range won’t suit road-trippers. But if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable way to go electric without sacrificing personality, the Soul EV delivers.

Who’s it for? City commuters, eco-conscious families, and first-time EV buyers who want something approachable. Who’s it not for? Anyone needing long-range capability or towing power. The Soul EV is a niche car, but it fills that niche perfectly.

My final take? The 2015 Soul EV is proof that electric cars don’t have to be boring. It’s quirky, efficient, and—dare I say—joyful to drive. If you find a well-maintained used model (check the battery health first!), it could be one of the best deals in the EV world. Just don’t expect it to be a Tesla. And that’s the point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car?

The 2015 Kia Soul EV offers an EPA-estimated range of 93 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes and city driving. Real-world range may vary based on driving habits and weather conditions.

How long does it take to charge the 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car?

Using a Level 2 (240V) charger, the 2015 Kia Soul EV takes about 4-5 hours for a full charge. A standard 120V outlet takes significantly longer, up to 24 hours, which is less practical for regular use.

Are 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car reviews positive about its performance?

Yes, most 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car reviews praise its zippy acceleration, smooth ride, and quiet cabin. However, some note its limited range compared to newer EV models.

What are the downsides of the 2015 Kia Soul EV?

The main drawbacks include its modest 93-mile range and slower DC fast-charging capability (only up to 100 miles in 33 minutes). Rear-seat space and cargo capacity are also reduced due to the battery pack.

Is the 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car reliable?

Based on owner reports and 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car reviews, the EV has proven reliable with minimal mechanical issues. Its battery degradation is on par with industry standards for its age.

What safety features does the 2015 Kia Soul EV include?

The 2015 Kia Soul Electric Car comes with standard safety features like stability control, airbags, and a rearview camera. Optional features include parking sensors and a navigation system with EV-specific routing.