2017 Kia Soul EV Electric Cars Review Pros and Cons

The 2017 Kia Soul EV stands out in the electric car market with its spacious, tech-forward cabin and a smooth, quiet ride ideal for urban commuting. Though its 93-mile range lags behind newer rivals, the Soul EV impresses with quick charging, user-friendly infotainment, and a fun, boxy design that blends practicality with personality.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: Budget-friendly EV with strong value for money.
• Compact design: Ideal for city driving and tight parking spaces.
• Decent range: 93-mile range suits daily commutes without stress.
• Quick charging: 80% charge in 30 mins with DC fast charging.
• Limited highway range: Less ideal for long-distance road trips.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin for its class, great for passengers.

The 2017 Kia Soul EV: A Quirky Electric Commuter with Heart

Remember when electric cars were all about serious, futuristic designs and a “save the planet” vibe? The 2017 Kia Soul EV is here to remind us that going green doesn’t have to mean sacrificing personality. This little electric box on wheels is like that friend who shows up to the party in a neon tracksuit—unapologetically bold, undeniably fun, and surprisingly practical once you get to know them. As someone who’s spent time behind the wheel of this quirky EV, I can tell you it’s not just a novelty act. It’s a genuinely thoughtful electric car that tries to do things differently.

But let’s be real—2017 was a transitional year for electric vehicles. The Tesla Model S was already turning heads, and the Chevy Bolt was about to launch with a 238-mile range. In that context, the 2017 Kia Soul EV felt like a solid mid-tier option. It wasn’t the fastest, the farthest-reaching, or the most luxurious EV out there, but it carved out a niche for itself. It was the EV for people who wanted to drive something that stood out in a parking lot, didn’t need to cross state lines on a whim, and valued a comfortable, tech-savvy cabin over raw performance. If you’re shopping for a used EV today or just curious about how far the segment has come, the 2017 Kia Soul EV is a fascinating case study in balancing practicality, personality, and progress.

Design and Interior: A Box That Packs a Punch

Exterior: Bold, Boxy, and Unmistakable

The 2017 Kia Soul EV doesn’t try to hide its roots. It’s a direct evolution of the gas-powered Soul, but with a few key tweaks to signal its electric identity. The most obvious change? The blanked-off front grille. Instead of a traditional grille, you get a smooth, aerodynamic panel with a small charging port door on the driver’s side. The headlights are slightly reshaped, and there are subtle “EV” badges on the fenders and tailgate. The overall silhouette remains that of the iconic Soul—boxy, upright, and unapologetically fun. It’s not sleek like a Tesla, but it has a charm that grows on you.

One thing I appreciated: the LED daytime running lights. They’re thin, angular, and give the Soul EV a slightly futuristic face. The 16-inch alloy wheels are unique to the EV model, with a design that’s both aerodynamic and stylish. And yes, the color options include some eye-catching hues like Solar Yellow and Shadow Black. This isn’t a car that blends into the background.

Interior: Practical, Tech-Forward, and Surprisingly Spacious

Inside, the Soul EV feels like a step up from the base Soul. The cabin is well-built, with soft-touch materials on the dash and doors. The centerpiece is the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was pretty advanced for 2017. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (a big deal at the time), and the interface is intuitive. I found myself using the voice command system more than expected—especially for navigation while charging at a public station.

The seats are comfortable for daily commutes, though the driver’s seat could use a bit more lumbar support on longer drives. Rear passengers get decent legroom, and the flat floor makes the middle seat usable. The cargo area is a standout: 18.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 49.5 with them folded. That’s more than a Honda Fit EV and competitive with other compact EVs. I once fit a full-size stroller, a week’s worth of groceries, and a yoga mat back there—no problem.

One small gripe: the climate controls. They’re physical buttons, which I love, but the placement under the touchscreen means you have to look away from the road. A minor quibble, but worth noting.

Unique EV Touches

Kia added some clever EV-specific touches. The gear selector is a rotary dial instead of a traditional shifter, freeing up space in the center console. There’s a dedicated “Eco” mode button, and the instrument cluster includes an energy flow display that shows when you’re charging, regenerating, or using battery power. It’s a nice visual reminder of how your driving style affects efficiency.

Performance and Driving Experience: Not a Speed Demon, But a Smooth Operator

Power and Acceleration

The 2017 Kia Soul EV uses a 109-horsepower electric motor powered by a 27 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. That’s not a lot of horsepower by today’s standards, but it’s enough for city driving. 0-60 mph happens in around 10.5 seconds—slower than a gas-powered Soul, but not painfully so. The real strength is how the power is delivered. Electric motors make all their torque instantly, so the Soul EV feels sprightly off the line. Merging onto the highway is no issue, and passing slower traffic on two-lane roads is doable, though you’ll need to plan ahead.

I remember one morning, I was in a hurry to get to a meeting. I floored it from a stoplight, and the Soul EV responded with a quiet, linear surge. No engine roar, no gear shifts—just smooth, silent acceleration. It’s a different kind of fun, more Zen than adrenaline. If you’re used to gas cars, it takes some getting used to, but I grew to appreciate the calmness.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Soul EV rides on the same platform as the gas model, but with a few tweaks. The battery pack sits low in the chassis, which lowers the center of gravity and improves stability. The steering is light and precise—perfect for parking lots and tight city streets. On the highway, it’s stable, though crosswinds can make it feel a bit light. The ride is on the firm side, but not harsh. Potholes and speed bumps are absorbed well, though you’ll feel them more than in a softer-riding sedan.

One thing to note: the Soul EV has a slightly higher ride height than the gas model. That means you sit up a bit higher, which gives you a better view of the road. It also makes getting in and out easier, especially for older drivers or those with mobility issues.

Regenerative Braking: The Art of Coasting

The Soul EV has three levels of regenerative braking, controlled by steering wheel paddles. Level 1 is minimal—like coasting in a gas car. Level 2 is moderate, and Level 3 is strong, almost allowing one-pedal driving in stop-and-go traffic. I quickly learned to use Level 2 as my default. It gave me enough regen to slow the car without being jerky, and it helped extend my range.

Here’s a tip: if you’re driving in hilly areas, use Level 3 on descents. The regen will slow you down naturally, and you’ll recharge the battery slightly. I once drove through the hills of San Diego and gained about 2% battery on a long downhill stretch—a small win, but it felt satisfying.

Range and Charging: Real-World Expectations

EPA Range: 93 Miles, But It Varies

The EPA rates the 2017 Kia Soul EV at 93 miles of range. That sounds modest today, but in 2017, it was competitive with the Nissan Leaf (107 miles) and ahead of the Fiat 500e (84 miles). In real-world use, I averaged about 80-85 miles in mixed driving—city, highway, and some hills. On a cool, flat commute with minimal AC, I once hit 90 miles. But in winter, with the heat on full blast, I saw as low as 60 miles.

The key takeaway? The Soul EV is best suited for drivers with short to medium commutes. If your daily drive is under 30 miles, you’ll likely charge every few days. But if you’re doing 50+ miles a day, you’ll need to plan your charging stops carefully. I had a friend who used the Soul EV as a second car for school drop-offs and errands. It worked great. But for someone with a 40-mile round-trip commute, it was a stretch.

Charging Options: Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging

The Soul EV comes with a portable Level 1 charger (120V), which adds about 2-3 miles of range per hour. That’s fine for overnight charging at home, but not practical for daily use. Most owners will want to install a Level 2 charger (240V), which adds about 25 miles per hour. I had a 30-amp charger installed at my house for around $600. With it, I could go from 20% to 100% in about 4 hours.

The Soul EV also supports DC fast charging via a CHAdeMO port. With a 50 kW charger, you can get to 80% in about 33 minutes. That’s a game-changer for road trips. I once drove from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (about 95 miles) and charged at a public fast charger in Oxnard. It took 40 minutes, and I was back on the road with 70 miles of range. Not Tesla Supercharger speed, but not bad for 2017.

Charging Tips for Soul EV Owners

• Precondition the battery in cold weather: If you’re charging overnight in winter, use the Kia app to start the climate control while the car is plugged in. This warms the battery, which improves charging efficiency and range.
• Use public chargers strategically: Apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint can help you find nearby chargers. I always checked the station’s reliability before driving there.
• Don’t rely on Level 1: It’s better than nothing, but it’s not enough for daily use. Invest in a Level 2 charger if you can.

Tech and Features: Smart, but Not Overwhelming

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 8-inch touchscreen is the heart of the Soul EV’s tech suite. It’s responsive, with sharp graphics and a clean layout. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were still relatively new in 2017, but Kia included them as standard—a big plus. I used CarPlay for music, maps, and messaging, and it worked flawlessly. The system also has a built-in navigation system, which I found useful when my phone’s signal was spotty.

The audio system is a 6-speaker setup with a subwoofer. It’s not a premium sound system, but it’s clear and well-balanced. I streamed music via Bluetooth and was happy with the quality. One neat feature: the audio system automatically adjusts volume based on speed, so you don’t have to fiddle with the dial on the highway.

Safety and Driver Aids

The Soul EV comes with a solid list of safety features. Standard items include:

• Rearview camera
• Parking sensors
• Lane departure warning
• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking

I particularly liked the forward collision system. It gave me a visual and audible warning when I got too close to a car in heavy traffic. The automatic braking was smooth, not jerky, and it gave me peace of mind. The lane departure warning was a bit sensitive—it would chime if I drifted over a dashed line, even when I was checking my blind spot. I ended up turning it off.

Kia UVO EV Services

The Soul EV includes Kia’s UVO EV telematics system, which lets you control and monitor the car via a smartphone app. Features include:

• Remote start and climate control
• Charging status and scheduling
• Vehicle location
• Energy usage reports

I used the remote climate control feature often. On hot days, I’d start the AC while the car was still plugged in, so the cabin would be cool when I got in. It also helped extend range, since the AC draws power from the charger, not the battery. The energy usage reports were helpful for tracking efficiency over time.

Pros and Cons: The Good, the Not-So-Good, and the Quirky

The Pros: Why the Soul EV Shines

• Distinctive design: It stands out in a sea of bland EVs. The boxy shape is practical and fun.
• Comfortable interior: High-quality materials, good visibility, and plenty of cargo space.
• Smooth, quiet ride: The electric motor makes city driving a breeze.
• DC fast charging: A rarity in its price range in 2017. It opens up road trip possibilities.
• Standard tech features: CarPlay, Android Auto, and a solid safety suite at no extra cost.
• Regenerative braking: The paddle system is intuitive and effective.

The Cons: Where It Falls Short

• Limited range: 93 miles is tight for highway-heavy commutes or cold weather.
• Slow acceleration: Not a dealbreaker for city driving, but it feels underpowered on the highway.
• Firm ride: It handles well, but the ride can be bouncy on rough roads.
• No heated steering wheel: A strange omission for a car that’s often used in cold climates.
• CHAdeMO fast charging: It’s functional, but the network is smaller than CCS or Tesla.
• Rear seat headroom: Tall passengers might feel cramped.

Who Should Consider the 2017 Kia Soul EV?

The Soul EV is ideal for:

• Urban and suburban commuters with short to medium drives
• Families who want a second car for errands and school runs
• Eco-conscious drivers who value personality over range
• Tech-savvy buyers who want a well-equipped EV at a reasonable price

It’s less suited for:

• Long-distance commuters or frequent road trippers
• Drivers who prioritize acceleration or luxury
• Those who live in areas with sparse fast charging

Data Snapshot: 2017 Kia Soul EV at a Glance

Feature	Specification
Electric Motor	109 horsepower, 210 lb-ft torque
Battery	27 kWh lithium-ion
EPA Range	93 miles
Charging (Level 2)	4 hours (20-100%)
DC Fast Charging	33 minutes (0-80%)
Seating Capacity	5
Cargo Space	18.8 / 49.5 cubic feet
MSRP (2017)	$32,250 (before incentives)
0-60 mph	10.5 seconds
Top Speed	90 mph

Final Thoughts: A Quirky, Capable EV with a Heart of Gold

The 2017 Kia Soul EV isn’t the most powerful, the farthest-reaching, or the most luxurious electric car. But it’s one of the most characterful. It’s a car that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its charm. In a world where EVs are often judged by their range and tech specs, the Soul EV reminds us that personality matters.

After spending time with it, I came to appreciate its strengths: the practical cabin, the smooth ride, the fast charging capability, and the way it turns heads in a parking lot. It’s not perfect—the range is limiting, the ride is firm, and it’s not a speed demon—but it’s honest about what it is: a fun, efficient, and thoughtfully designed EV for real-world drivers.

If you’re in the market for a used EV, the 2017 Kia Soul EV is worth a look. It’s a great option for city dwellers, eco-conscious families, or anyone who wants to go electric without sacrificing style. And if you’re just curious about how far EVs have come, the Soul EV is a fascinating snapshot of where the segment was in 2017—and a reminder that progress doesn’t always mean going bigger or faster. Sometimes, it means going smarter, more fun, and more human.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2017 Kia Soul EV electric cars?

The 2017 Kia Soul EV offers an EPA-estimated range of 93 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for city commutes and short road trips. This range is competitive for its class, though it falls short compared to newer EV models.

How long does it take to charge the 2017 Kia Soul EV?

Using a Level 2 (240V) charger, the 2017 Kia Soul EV takes about 4–5 hours for a full charge. With a standard 120V outlet, charging can take up to 24 hours, so upgrading to a Level 2 charger is recommended for convenience.

Are there any common reliability issues with the 2017 Kia Soul EV?

The 2017 Kia Soul EV is generally reliable, with few reported mechanical issues. Some owners note minor software glitches in the infotainment system, but overall, it maintains strong reliability ratings for an early-generation electric car.

What are the standout features of the 2017 Kia Soul EV electric cars?

The 2017 Kia Soul EV includes standout features like heated and cooled front seats, a 7-inch touchscreen with navigation, and regenerative braking. Its boxy design also provides ample interior space, a rare perk in compact EVs.

Is the 2017 Kia Soul EV eligible for federal tax credits?

Yes, the 2017 Kia Soul EV originally qualified for a $7,500 federal tax credit when purchased new. However, eligibility depends on your tax liability, and the credit may no longer apply if buying used.

How does the 2017 Kia Soul EV compare to other electric cars in its price range?

The 2017 Kia Soul EV stands out with its spacious cabin, user-friendly tech, and strong warranty. While its range is modest compared to rivals like the Nissan Leaf, its practicality and comfort make it a solid value in the used EV market.