2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car Review Performance and Features

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric delivers an impressive blend of efficiency and practicality with its 243-mile range and 147-hp electric motor. Spacious interior, rapid charging capability, and a suite of driver-assist features make it a standout in the compact EV segment, offering great value for eco-conscious drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: 243-mile EPA range beats many rivals.
• Quick acceleration: 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds for city agility.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin with 18.8 cu-ft cargo space.
• Regenerative braking: Adjustable system enhances efficiency and control.
• Infotainment upgrade: 10.25-inch touchscreen with Android Auto/CarPlay.
• Strong warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile battery coverage for peace of mind.

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric: A Quirky EV That’s More Than Just a Box on Wheels

Remember when electric cars were either luxury toys for the wealthy or tiny, underpowered city runabouts? The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric (or Soul EV as it’s often called) arrived at a pivotal time—when EVs were starting to break free from those stereotypes. As someone who’s driven everything from a Tesla Model 3 to a Nissan Leaf, I was curious: could a box-shaped, fun-loving Kia really hold its own in the growing EV market?

The short answer? Yes, but with some important caveats. The 2019 Soul EV isn’t trying to out-Tesla Tesla. Instead, it’s a practical, affordable, and surprisingly fun electric car that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s the EV equivalent of your favorite pair of worn-in sneakers: not flashy, but reliable, comfortable, and always ready for adventure. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer, a city dweller tired of gas station visits, or just someone who appreciates quirky design, the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric has something to offer. Let’s dive into what makes this little electric box special—and where it might leave you wanting more.

Performance: How Does the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Drive?

Power and Acceleration: Punchy, Not Powerful

Let’s get one thing straight: the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric isn’t a speed demon. With its 109-horsepower electric motor (up from the 2015-2017 model’s 81 hp), it’s not going to win any drag races. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t need to. The instant torque of the electric motor delivers a surprisingly punchy feel from a stop, perfect for zipping through city traffic or merging onto highways. I found myself effortlessly keeping up with flow of traffic, even on uphill on-ramps.

The 0-60 mph time is around 9.5 seconds—slower than a Tesla, but faster than a Toyota Prius. What it lacks in raw speed, it makes up for in responsiveness. There’s no lag, no gear shifts, just smooth, linear acceleration. It’s the kind of car that makes you smile when you floor it at a green light, even if you’re not breaking any records.

Range and Charging: Real-World Numbers Matter

This is where things get a bit tricky. The 2019 Soul EV comes with a 39.2 kWh battery pack, which Kia claims delivers an EPA-estimated 111 miles of range. In real-world driving, I found that number to be fairly accurate—but with some important conditions.

• City driving: You’ll easily hit 110-115 miles, especially if you use regenerative braking wisely.
• Highway driving: Expect closer to 90-95 miles at 70 mph. The Soul EV’s boxy shape creates more drag, which eats into range at higher speeds.
• Winter driving: In colder temps (below 32°F), I saw a 15-20% drop in range due to heating the cabin and battery. Preconditioning while plugged in helps.

Charging is straightforward. The Soul EV supports Level 1 (120V), Level 2 (240V), and DC fast charging. A full charge on a Level 2 charger takes about 5.5 hours—perfect for overnight charging. DC fast charging can get you to 80% in about 30 minutes, which is great for road trips if you plan carefully. Pro tip: Use the Kia UVO app to monitor charging status remotely and set departure times for preconditioning.

Handling and Ride Quality: Fun, Not Flawless

The Soul EV’s handling is where its personality really shines. It’s not a sports car, but the low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) gives it a planted, stable feel. Corners feel predictable, and the steering is light but accurate—perfect for zipping around town.

The ride is on the firm side, which some might find a bit harsh over rough pavement. But for a small car, it’s well-damped and doesn’t feel overly bouncy. The electric motor’s quiet operation makes the cabin surprisingly serene, though wind noise becomes noticeable at highway speeds due to the boxy shape.

Interior and Technology: Practical, Not Plush

Cabin Design: Retro-Futuristic Charm

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric’s interior is a delightful mix of retro and modern. The dashboard features circular vents and a floating center screen, giving it a playful, almost toy-like vibe. The materials are mostly hard plastics, but they’re well-finished and don’t feel cheap. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives—though taller drivers might wish for more thigh support.

One standout feature? The “mood lighting” around the speakers. It pulses with the music, turning your cabin into a mini dance floor. It’s silly, but it’s the kind of quirky detail that makes the Soul EV feel like it has personality.

Infotainment and Connectivity: User-Friendly, But Dated

The Soul EV comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—a must-have for any modern car. The interface is intuitive, with large icons and responsive touch controls. Voice commands work well, though they’re not as robust as newer systems.

However, the graphics and animations feel a bit dated compared to newer EVs. The navigation system is functional but not as accurate as Google Maps or Waze. Tip: Use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation to get real-time traffic updates.

Other tech highlights include:

• Wireless phone charging (a rare find in this price range)
• Six-speaker audio system (good, but not audiophile-grade)
• Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines (makes parking a breeze)

Space and Practicality: Surprisingly Roomy

Despite its compact size, the Soul EV is impressively spacious. The boxy shape maximizes interior volume, with plenty of headroom and legroom for four adults. The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 split, expanding the cargo area from 18.8 cubic feet to 49.5 cubic feet—enough for a week’s worth of groceries or a couple of suitcases.

The floor is low, making it easy to load heavy items. There’s also a small “frunk” (front trunk) under the hood, perfect for storing charging cables or a small bag. Just don’t expect Tesla-level space—it’s about the size of a shoebox.

Safety and Driver Aids: Peace of Mind, Standard

Standard Safety Features: Kia’s Got You Covered

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric comes with a solid suite of standard safety features, including:

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Driver attention warning
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Automatic headlights with high-beam assist

These features work well in real-world driving. The forward collision system, in particular, is sensitive without being overly aggressive—it gave me a gentle nudge when a car in front of me suddenly braked, but never startled me with a harsh jolt.

Crash Test Ratings: Good, But Not Class-Leading

The Soul EV hasn’t been tested by the NHTSA, but the gasoline-powered Soul earned a 4-star overall rating. The IIHS gave it a “Top Safety Pick” rating for 2019, with “Good” scores in most crash tests. The only weak spot was the headlights, which earned an “Acceptable” rating.

One thing to note: the Soul EV’s battery pack adds weight, but Kia reinforced the chassis to maintain safety standards. The low center of gravity also reduces the risk of rollover.

Parking and Visibility: Easy to Maneuver

The Soul EV’s high seating position and large windows make it easy to see out of. The rearview camera and parking sensors (standard on the Plus trim) make parallel parking a breeze, even in tight spaces. The turning circle is tight, too—perfect for urban driving.

Cost of Ownership and Value: Where the Soul EV Shines (and Struggles)

Pricing: Affordable, But Not the Cheapest

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric started at around $33,950 before incentives. After the federal tax credit ($7,500 at the time), that dropped to about $26,450. That’s a great deal for a well-equipped EV, especially when you compare it to the Nissan Leaf Plus ($38,200) or the Chevrolet Bolt ($37,495).

However, the Soul EV’s range was a sticking point. At 111 miles, it’s less than half the range of a Tesla Model 3 or even the Leaf Plus (226 miles). If you need more range, you’ll have to pay up for a different car—or wait for the 2020 Soul EV (which got a 64 kWh battery and 243 miles of range).

Fuel and Maintenance Savings: The Real Win

Here’s where the Soul EV really shines. Electricity is cheaper than gas, and maintenance costs are lower. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no transmission fluid—just occasional tire rotations and cabin air filter replacements.

Kia also offered a generous warranty package for the 2019 Soul EV:

• 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain (including the battery)

That’s one of the best warranties in the business. It gives you peace of mind, especially if you’re worried about battery degradation. Kia claims the battery will retain at least 70% of its capacity after 10 years.

Resale Value: A Mixed Bag

The Soul EV’s resale value is… complicated. On one hand, it’s a Kia, which generally holds value better than other non-luxury brands. On the other hand, the limited range and the rapid advancement of EV tech mean it’s already outdated compared to newer models.

If you’re buying used, look for a well-maintained example with the Plus trim (it has more features). Avoid cars with a history of battery issues or frequent fast-charging use—that can degrade the battery faster.

Who Should Buy the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric?

The Ideal Soul EV Owner: Practical, Fun-Loving, and City-Centric

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric isn’t for everyone. But if you fit any of these profiles, it might be perfect for you:

• City dwellers: If your daily commute is under 50 miles and you have access to charging, the Soul EV is ideal. It’s easy to park, fun to drive, and cheap to run.
• First-time EV buyers: The Soul EV is a great introduction to electric driving. It’s affordable, well-equipped, and backed by a strong warranty.
• Families on a budget: The roomy interior and standard safety features make it a practical choice for small families.
• Quirky design lovers: If you’re tired of cookie-cutter EVs, the Soul EV’s retro-futuristic styling will stand out.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

The Soul EV might not be the best fit if:

• You need more than 111 miles of range (consider the 2020+ Soul EV, Leaf Plus, or Bolt)
• You frequently drive on the highway at high speeds (the range drops significantly)
• You want luxury features (the interior is nice, but not plush)
• You need towing capability (the Soul EV isn’t rated for towing)

Real-World Ownership Tips

If you decide the 2019 Soul EV is right for you, here are a few tips to get the most out of it:

• Maximize regenerative braking: Use the paddle shifters to adjust regen strength. Strong regen can add 5-10 miles of range in city driving.
• Precondition the cabin: Use the UVO app to heat or cool the cabin while the car is plugged in. This saves battery power.
• Stick to Level 2 charging: Frequent DC fast charging can degrade the battery over time. Use it only when necessary.
• Keep the battery charged between 20-80%: This extends battery life. Only charge to 100% when you need the extra range.

Final Verdict: A Quirky, Practical EV That Delivers on Value

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric is a car that defies expectations. It’s not the fastest, the longest-range, or the most luxurious EV out there. But it’s one of the most fun and practical EVs in its price range. The quirky design, roomy interior, and strong standard features make it a compelling choice for city drivers, first-time EV buyers, and anyone who values personality over polish.

The 111-mile range is its biggest limitation—but for many drivers, it’s more than enough. And with the federal tax credit (if you qualify), the Soul EV becomes an even better value. Kia’s 10-year battery warranty adds peace of mind, and the low maintenance costs make it cheap to own long-term.

Is it perfect? No. The infotainment system feels dated, the ride is a bit firm, and the range won’t work for everyone. But if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable, and enjoyable EV that doesn’t take itself too seriously, the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric is hard to beat. It’s a reminder that electric cars don’t have to be boring—and that sometimes, the best EVs are the ones that make you smile every time you get behind the wheel.

2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Specs at a Glance

Powertrain	Single electric motor, 109 hp, 210 lb-ft torque
Battery	39.2 kWh lithium-ion
Range (EPA)	111 miles
Charging	Level 1 (120V): 24+ hours Level 2 (240V): 5.5 hours DC Fast Charging (50 kW): 30 min (80%)
0-60 mph	9.5 seconds
Top Speed	90 mph
Transmission	Single-speed reduction gear
Cargo Space	18.8 cu ft (rear seats up) 49.5 cu ft (rear seats folded)
Warranty	5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain (battery included)
Starting Price	$33,950 (before incentives)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car?

The 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car offers an EPA-estimated range of 111 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes and urban driving. While not the longest range in its class, it suits drivers with predictable, shorter travel needs.

How fast can the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car charge?

Using a DC fast charger, the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car can charge from 0% to 80% in about 30 minutes. With a Level 2 charger, a full charge takes roughly 5 hours, perfect for overnight charging at home.

Does the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car have good performance?

Yes, the 2019 Soul EV delivers smooth, instant acceleration thanks to its 109-hp electric motor. It offers a quiet, comfortable ride with responsive handling, though it’s not designed for high-speed thrills or off-roading.

What are the standout features of the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car?

This model includes heated front seats, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety features like forward collision warning. The cabin is roomy, with a quirky, practical design that sets it apart from other EVs.

How does the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car compare to other electric cars?

The 2019 Soul EV competes well in affordability and unique styling but lags behind rivals like the Chevrolet Bolt in range and fast-charging capability. Its compact size and fun personality make it a strong contender for city drivers.

Is the 2019 Kia Soul Plus Electric Car reliable?

Yes, the 2019 Soul EV has solid reliability ratings, backed by Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, including the battery. Owners report minimal issues, making it a dependable choice among used electric vehicles.