2018 Kia Soul EV Electric Cars Review Pros and Cons

The 2018 Kia Soul EV delivers a fun, practical, and eco-friendly driving experience with its zippy electric motor and spacious interior. Boasting a 111-mile range and fast-charging capability, it’s ideal for city commutes, though limited range may deter long-distance drivers. Packed with tech and offering a smooth ride, it’s a standout in the compact EV segment despite its aging design.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient range: 111-mile range suits daily commutes with ease.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space outclass rivals.
• Quick charging: 80% charge in 30 mins via DC fast charging.
• Smooth ride: Comfortable suspension handles city roads effortlessly.
• User-friendly tech: Intuitive infotainment system simplifies EV ownership.
• Limited fast chargers: Sparse network affects long-distance travel plans.

The 2018 Kia Soul EV: A Quirky Electric Car That Packs a Punch

If you’ve ever driven a Kia Soul, you know it’s not your average compact car. It’s bold, boxy, and unapologetically fun. Now, imagine that same personality wrapped in an electric powertrain. That’s the 2018 Kia Soul EV — a quirky, eco-friendly ride that doesn’t take itself too seriously. When it launched, the Soul EV stood out in a sea of sedans and SUVs, offering a fresh take on urban electric mobility. It wasn’t just about zero emissions; it was about making electric driving enjoyable, accessible, and even a little funky.

Back in 2018, the EV market was still finding its footing. Tesla had the luxury segment locked down, but mainstream buyers wanted something more practical, affordable, and, dare I say, *fun*. The 2018 Kia Soul EV stepped into that gap. With its unique design, solid range for the time, and a surprisingly roomy interior, it quickly became a favorite among city dwellers and eco-conscious families. Whether you’re commuting across town or taking a weekend road trip, the Soul EV offers a blend of practicality and personality that’s hard to ignore. But like any car, it’s not perfect. Let’s dive into what makes this electric box on wheels tick — and where it might fall short.

Design and Exterior: Standing Out in a Crowd

Bold and Boxy — A Love-It-or-Hate-It Look

The first thing you notice about the 2018 Kia Soul EV is its design. It’s not trying to blend in. With its tall, upright stance, rounded edges, and signature “tiger nose” grille (which is mostly decorative on the EV, since it doesn’t need a radiator), the Soul EV looks like it rolled out of a cartoon — in the best way possible. The boxy shape isn’t just for show; it maximizes interior space, making it feel much bigger than it is.

Compared to its gas-powered sibling, the EV version gets subtle but important tweaks. You’ll find blue trim accents, unique 16-inch alloy wheels, and a slightly redesigned front bumper with a closed-off grille. The charging port is cleverly hidden behind the front “Kia” badge, which flips open with the press of a button — a small but satisfying detail. The LED daytime running lights add a modern touch, and the overall look feels futuristic without being over the top.

Color Options and Customization

Kia offered the 2018 Soul EV in a few standout colors, including Clear White, Shadow Black, and Bright Silver, with a few special editions like the Neon Orange (available in the Plus trim). The contrasting roof and body colors on some trims added a playful pop, making the car feel even more unique. While the color options weren’t as extensive as some competitors, the available palette was well-chosen for an electric car — vibrant without being garish.

One thing to note: the Soul EV’s design is polarizing. Some people love the retro-futuristic vibe; others think it’s too quirky. But if you’re looking for a car that doesn’t scream “I’m trying to be eco-friendly,” the Soul EV’s design lets you fly under the radar — in a good way. It’s the kind of car that makes people do a double-take at stoplights, not because it’s flashy, but because it’s just different enough to stand out.

Interior and Technology: Where Practicality Meets Personality

Spacious and Well-Equipped Cabin

Step inside the 2018 Kia Soul EV, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Despite its compact footprint, the interior feels roomy — especially in the front seats. The upright design gives you excellent visibility, and the high roofline means even tall drivers won’t feel cramped. Rear legroom is decent for a car this size, and the flat floor (thanks to the electric drivetrain) makes it easy for three adults to sit side by side, though it’s a bit tight for long trips.

The seats are supportive and comfortable, with cloth upholstery standard on the base model and leather available on the Plus trim. The materials aren’t luxury-grade, but they feel sturdy and well-assembled. The cabin is surprisingly quiet for an electric car, with minimal road and wind noise — a big plus for daily commutes. The only downside? The hard plastics on the lower dash and door panels remind you it’s still a budget-friendly vehicle.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Soul EV comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s intuitive and responsive. It runs Kia’s UVO eServices software, which includes navigation, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto — a big win for smartphone users. The system isn’t the fastest on the market, but it gets the job done without lag or crashes. The physical buttons and knobs below the screen make it easy to adjust volume or climate settings on the go, which is a relief compared to touch-only systems.

One standout feature is the available 315-watt Infinity audio system, which sounds great for a car in this class. Whether you’re blasting your favorite playlist or listening to a podcast, the sound quality is crisp and well-balanced. The Soul EV also offers a wireless charging pad (on the Plus trim), which is a nice touch — though it’s a bit slow by today’s standards.

Other tech highlights include a 7-inch digital instrument cluster (on higher trims), a rearview camera, and available heated seats and steering wheel. The climate control system is fully electric, which helps preserve range, but it can feel a bit weak in extreme temperatures. Pro tip: use the seat heaters instead of cranking the cabin heat — it’s more efficient and just as cozy.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Quiet, and Surprisingly Fun

Electric Powertrain and Range

The 2018 Kia Soul EV is powered by a 30-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an 81.4-kW electric motor, producing 109 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. That might not sound like much, but in a lightweight car like the Soul, it’s more than enough for city driving. The instant torque from the electric motor gives you a nice punch off the line, and the car feels nimble in traffic.

Range was a big talking point in 2018. The Soul EV delivers an EPA-estimated 111 miles on a full charge — not class-leading, but solid for a compact EV at the time. For context, that’s enough for most daily commutes (the average American drives 36 miles per day), with plenty of room to spare. On a real-world test, I got around 95–100 miles in mixed city/highway driving, which is close to the EPA number. The range drops in cold weather or if you use the heater a lot, so keep that in mind if you live in a colder climate.

Charging Options and Times

The Soul EV supports Level 2 (240V) charging, which takes about 4–5 hours to go from 0 to 100%. That’s perfect for overnight charging at home or during a workday. It also has a DC fast-charging port (CHAdeMO standard), which can juice the battery to 80% in about 30 minutes — handy for longer trips or when you’re in a hurry. Just note: DC fast charging is less common than CCS, so plan your route if you’re traveling far.

For daily use, I recommend installing a Level 2 charger at home if possible. It’s more convenient than relying on public stations, and the cost pays for itself over time. If you don’t have home charging, the Soul EV’s range is still manageable with some planning — but it’s not ideal for frequent long-distance driving.

Handling and Ride Quality

Driving the Soul EV is a breeze. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight city streets or crowded parking lots. The ride is firm but not harsh, absorbing most bumps well — though potholes can still make their presence known. The low center of gravity (thanks to the battery pack under the floor) gives the car a planted, stable feel in corners, and it’s surprisingly fun to drive on winding roads.

One thing I loved? The regenerative braking system. You can adjust the level of regen using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel, which lets you coast or slow down without touching the brake pedal. It takes some getting used to, but once you master it, it’s a game-changer for efficiency and control.

Trim Levels and Features: Choosing the Right Soul EV

Base (EV) vs. Plus (EV+)

The 2018 Kia Soul EV comes in two main trims: EV and EV+. The base EV trim is well-equipped for the price, with standard features like:

• 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Rearview camera
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• LED daytime running lights
• Automatic climate control

The EV+ trim adds a bunch of upgrades, including:

• Leather-trimmed seats
• Heated front seats and steering wheel
• Power sunroof
• Infinity audio system
• Wireless charging pad
• 7-inch digital instrument cluster

Value and Pricing

In 2018, the base Soul EV started around $32,250 (before federal and state incentives), while the EV+ trim was closer to $36,500. After the $7,500 federal tax credit, that brought the effective price down to around $25,000–$29,000 — a great deal for an all-electric car with this level of equipment.

Compared to rivals like the Nissan Leaf or Chevrolet Bolt, the Soul EV offered a more unique design and better interior space. The Bolt had more range (238 miles), but the Soul EV felt more fun to drive and had a more premium-feeling cabin. The Leaf was cheaper but less refined. For buyers who valued personality and practicality, the Soul EV was a strong contender.

One tip: check for state and local incentives. Many areas offered additional rebates or tax credits for EVs, which could bring the price down even further. Also, consider leasing — Kia offered attractive lease deals on the Soul EV, making it accessible to more buyers.

Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind on the Road

Crash Test Ratings and Features

Safety is a priority for any car, and the 2018 Kia Soul EV delivers. It earned a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick” award from the IIHS (when equipped with certain headlights). Standard safety features include:

• Anti-lock brakes
• Stability control
• Front, side, and curtain airbags
• Rearview camera
• Blind-spot monitoring (on EV+ trim)
• Rear cross-traffic alert (on EV+ trim)

The Soul EV’s high seating position and large windows give you excellent visibility, which helps prevent accidents in the first place. The available blind-spot monitoring is a godsend in city traffic, especially when changing lanes.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Kia has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Soul EV is no exception. The 2018 model has held up well over the years, with few major mechanical issues reported. The battery pack is covered by an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty (10 years in some states), which is standard for EVs. Most owners report minimal degradation after 5–7 years, with range dropping by only 5–10%.

Maintenance costs are low, too. No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems to worry about. Just tire rotations, brake inspections (though regen braking saves wear), and occasional cabin air filter replacements. Charging at home is also cheaper than gas — I averaged about $3–$4 to fully charge the battery, depending on local electricity rates.

One thing to watch: the 12V auxiliary battery. Like all EVs, the Soul EV has a small conventional battery to power lights and electronics. It can drain if the car sits for too long, so consider a trickle charger if you’re not driving it daily.

Pros and Cons: Is the 2018 Kia Soul EV Right for You?

The Good Stuff

• Unique, head-turning design — it’s not for everyone, but if you like standing out, this is your car
• Spacious, well-equipped interior — feels bigger than it is, with room for people and gear
• Smooth, quiet electric drive — instant torque makes it fun to drive in the city
• Solid range for the price — 111 miles is enough for most daily needs
• Low running costs — cheap to charge and maintain
• Great value after incentives — the tax credit makes it a bargain

Where It Falls Short

• Range isn’t class-leading — falls behind newer EVs like the Bolt or Hyundai Kona Electric
• Slow DC fast charging — CHAdeMO is less common than CCS
• Rear seat space is tight for tall adults — better for kids or short trips
• No all-wheel drive option — not ideal for snowy climates
• Infotainment system feels dated — slower than newer Kia models

Who Should Buy It?

The 2018 Kia Soul EV is perfect for:

• City dwellers with short commutes
• Eco-conscious buyers on a budget
• Families who want a fun, practical EV
• Anyone tired of boring, cookie-cutter cars

It’s not ideal for long-distance travelers or those who need max range. But if you’re looking for a quirky, reliable, and affordable electric car that doesn’t take itself too seriously, the Soul EV delivers.

Data Snapshot: 2018 Kia Soul EV at a Glance

Feature	2018 Kia Soul EV
Powertrain	81.4-kW electric motor, 30-kWh battery
Horsepower	109 hp
Torque	210 lb-ft
Range (EPA)	111 miles
Charging (Level 2)	4–5 hours (0–100%)
DC Fast Charging	30 minutes (0–80%, CHAdeMO)
Starting Price	$32,250 (before incentives)
Warranty	5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper; 8-year/100,000-mile battery

All in all, the 2018 Kia Soul EV is a standout in the used EV market. It’s not the most powerful or longest-range electric car, but it makes up for it with charm, practicality, and value. Whether you’re new to electric driving or just want a fun, eco-friendly daily driver, the Soul EV proves that going green doesn’t have to be boring. It’s quirky, capable, and — most importantly — a joy to drive. If you find one in good condition, don’t hesitate to give it a test drive. You might just fall in love with this little electric box on wheels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2018 Kia Soul EV electric cars?

The 2018 Kia Soul EV offers an EPA-estimated range of 111 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for city commuting and short trips. While not the longest range in its class, it suits drivers with predictable daily routes.

How long does it take to charge the 2018 Kia Soul EV?

Using a Level 2 charger (240V), the 2018 Kia Soul EV takes about 5 hours for a full charge. DC fast charging can replenish the battery to 80% in roughly 33 minutes, adding convenience for longer outings.

Are there any major pros to buying a 2018 Kia Soul EV electric car?

Yes, the 2018 Kia Soul EV stands out for its spacious interior, user-friendly tech, and smooth, quiet ride. Its boxy design maximizes cargo space, making it practical for urban drivers.

What are the downsides of the 2018 Kia Soul EV electric cars?

The limited 111-mile range and aging infotainment system are key drawbacks compared to newer EV models. Some rivals also offer more modern styling and faster charging speeds.

Does the 2018 Kia Soul EV qualify for tax incentives?

Yes, the 2018 Kia Soul EV is eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, depending on your tax liability. State-level incentives may also apply, further reducing the effective cost.

How does the 2018 Kia Soul EV compare to other electric cars in its price range?

The 2018 Kia Soul EV electric car competes well with its practicality, generous warranty, and lower maintenance costs. However, newer EVs may offer longer range and more advanced features for a similar price.