Electric Car Kia Soul Review Top Features and Performance Insights

The Kia Soul EV stands out in the electric vehicle market with its spacious, tech-forward interior and impressive 243-mile range on a single charge. Its zippy acceleration, user-friendly infotainment, and bold, boxy design make it a top pick for urban drivers seeking style and substance. With fast-charging capability and a suite of advanced safety features, the Soul EV delivers exceptional value and performance in a compact package.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 243 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in 54 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Spacious interior: Ample room for passengers and cargo alike.
• User-friendly tech: 10.25-inch touchscreen with intuitive controls.
• Smooth ride: Comfortable suspension handles urban roads effortlessly.
• Strong warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile battery coverage included.

The Electric Car Kia Soul: A Quirky Contender in the EV Market

Imagine driving through city streets in a car that turns heads not for its size or luxury, but for its bold, boxy charm and zero tailpipe emissions. That’s the electric car Kia Soul—a vehicle that proves eco-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring. When I first saw the Kia Soul EV parked at a charging station, its retro-futuristic design reminded me of a toaster with wheels, but in the best way possible. It’s quirky, practical, and surprisingly fun to drive.

Since its debut, the electric car Kia Soul has carved out a unique niche in the competitive electric vehicle (EV) market. Unlike some EVs that prioritize sleek, minimalist designs, the Soul embraces its personality. It’s not trying to be a Tesla or a Porsche Taycan; it’s aiming for drivers who want a reliable, affordable, and stylish EV that fits their lifestyle. Whether you’re a city dweller, a suburban commuter, or someone just dipping their toes into the world of electric cars, the Kia Soul EV has a lot to offer. Let’s dive into what makes this little box on wheels stand out—and where it might fall short.

Design and Styling: Bold, Boxy, and Brilliant

Exterior: A Modern Twist on a Classic Shape

The electric car Kia Soul keeps the iconic boxy silhouette that made the original Soul famous, but with EV-specific tweaks. The front grille is closed off (since EVs don’t need airflow for cooling), replaced by a smooth panel with integrated LED daytime running lights. The charging port is neatly tucked behind a flap on the driver’s side, making it easy to access without disrupting the car’s clean lines.

Available in vibrant colors like Solar Yellow, Mars Orange, and Gravity Blue, the Soul EV stands out in a sea of gray SUVs. The 17-inch alloy wheels and blacked-out lower body cladding give it a sporty, rugged look. One thing I love? The “Soul” badging on the C-pillar—a small detail that adds character.

Interior: Practical, Tech-Forward, and Surprisingly Roomy

Step inside, and the Soul EV feels more spacious than its exterior suggests. The upright design maximizes headroom and cargo space, making it perfect for taller drivers or anyone who hates feeling cramped. The seats are supportive, with optional heated and ventilated front seats in higher trims.

The dashboard is simple but modern, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen (standard on all trims) and a fully digital instrument cluster. The center console has a rotary gear selector—a nice touch that saves space. One quirk? The rear windows are small, which can make parking a bit tricky if you rely on side visibility. But the standard backup camera and parking sensors help.

Pro Tip: Opt for the two-tone interior (available in some trims) for a more premium feel. The black-and-white combo adds contrast and makes the cabin feel brighter.

Performance and Driving Experience: More Than Just a City Car

Power and Range: Balanced for Real-World Use

The electric car Kia Soul comes with a 64 kWh battery pack and a single front-mounted electric motor, delivering 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough to go from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.6 seconds—not blistering, but peppy for city driving. The real star here is the range: an EPA-estimated 243 miles on a full charge, which is competitive for its class (think Chevrolet Bolt EV or Nissan Leaf Plus).

During my test drive, I took the Soul EV on a mix of city roads, highways, and even a winding mountain pass. In stop-and-go traffic, the instant torque made merging and passing effortless. On highways, it cruised comfortably at 70 mph, though the ride got a bit bouncy on rough pavement. The regenerative braking system has three levels (adjustable via paddle shifters), which I loved. Level 3 let me drive “one-pedal” style in the city, slowing the car significantly just by lifting off the accelerator.

Handling and Ride Quality: Agile, But Not a Sports Car

The Soul EV’s steering is light and responsive, perfect for zipping through tight city streets. The low center of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery) gives it surprising stability in corners. However, the suspension is tuned for comfort, not sportiness, so it leans a bit in fast turns.

The biggest surprise? How quiet the cabin is. Electric cars are naturally quieter than gas-powered ones, but the Soul EV goes further with extra sound-deadening materials. At 60 mph, the only noise I heard was faint road roar—no whine from the motor, no creaks, just peace.

Pro Tip: Use the “Sport” mode for a sharper throttle response. It’s not a game-changer, but it makes the car feel more engaging when you want to have fun.

Charging and Battery: What You Need to Know

Charging Options: Flexibility for Every Lifestyle

The electric car Kia Soul supports both Level 2 (AC) and DC fast charging. Here’s the breakdown:

• Level 2 (240V): A full charge takes about 9.5 hours with a 7.2 kW home charger. Perfect for overnight charging.
• DC Fast Charging: With a 50 kW charger, you can get from 10% to 80% in roughly 75 minutes. At 100 kW (if your charging station supports it), that time drops to 45 minutes.

During a road trip, I used a 50 kW fast charger and grabbed a coffee while waiting. The car’s infotainment screen showed real-time charging stats, which helped me plan the next leg of the journey.

Battery Life and Warranty: Peace of Mind

Kia covers the Soul EV’s battery with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, which is among the best in the industry. The battery is liquid-cooled, which helps maintain performance in extreme temperatures. In cold weather, pre-conditioning (heating the cabin while plugged in) can save battery range—a feature I used during a winter test drive.

Pro Tip: Use the Kia Connect app to schedule charging. For example, charge to 80% at night to preserve battery health, then top up to 100% right before your morning commute.

Tech and Safety: Smart Features for a Smarter Drive

Infotainment and Connectivity: User-Friendly and Packed with Goodies

The 10.25-inch touchscreen is the star of the show. It’s snappy, with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. Standard features include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired)
• Navigation with EV routing (shows charging stations along your route)
• Six-speaker audio system (upgradeable to a premium Harman Kardon system)
• Wireless phone charging (available on higher trims)

The voice recognition system works well, though it sometimes struggles with accents. I used it to set climate control and play music without taking my eyes off the road.

Safety Features: Kia’s “Drive Wise” Suite

All Soul EV trims come with Kia’s comprehensive driver-assistance package, including:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCAA)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Blind-Spot View Monitor (BSVM)—a camera in the digital instrument cluster that shows your blind spot when you signal

During a highway drive, the adaptive cruise control made long stretches effortless. The system even adjusts speed based on traffic flow. One standout feature? The Safe Exit Assist, which warns you if a car or cyclist is approaching when you open the door.

Pro Tip: Use the “Smart” mode for adaptive cruise control. It’s more aggressive in traffic, making lane changes smoother.

Cost and Value: Is the Kia Soul EV Worth It?

Pricing and Trim Levels: Something for Every Budget

The electric car Kia Soul starts at $33,990 for the base EX trim (before incentives). The top-tier EX Premium trim ($38,990) adds luxuries like a sunroof, leather seats, and the Harman Kardon audio system. Here’s a quick comparison:

Trim	Starting Price	Key Features
EX	$33,990	10.25-inch screen, heated front seats, DC fast charging
EX Premium	$38,990	Sunroof, leather seats, wireless charging, premium audio

Factor in federal tax credits ($7,500) and state incentives (e.g., $2,000 in California), and the price becomes much more competitive. The Soul EV also has lower maintenance costs than gas cars—no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking reduces wear on brake pads.

Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?

The Soul EV’s closest rivals are the Chevrolet Bolt EV ($26,500) and Nissan Leaf Plus ($38,330). The Bolt wins on price, but the Soul offers more cargo space (24.2 cu-ft vs. 16.3 cu-ft) and a longer warranty. The Leaf Plus has similar range but feels less premium inside.

Pro Tip: Test drive all three. The Soul’s unique design and driving experience might win you over, even if it’s not the cheapest option.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the Kia Soul EV?

The electric car Kia Soul isn’t perfect. The rear visibility could be better, the infotainment system lacks wireless CarPlay, and the ride gets a bit firm on rough roads. But it’s a fantastic choice if you:

• Want a fun, stylish EV that doesn’t blend in
• Need a practical daily driver with solid range
• Appreciate tech features without a steep learning curve
• Value a long warranty and low maintenance costs

After driving the Soul EV for a week, I found myself smiling every time I got behind the wheel. It’s not trying to be the fastest or the most luxurious EV—it’s just a well-rounded, affordable, and genuinely enjoyable car. For first-time EV buyers or anyone tired of cookie-cutter SUVs, the Kia Soul EV is a breath of fresh air.

So, is it the right electric car for you? If you prioritize personality, practicality, and peace of mind, the answer is a resounding yes. The electric car Kia Soul proves that going green doesn’t mean sacrificing fun—and that’s a win for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Electric Car Kia Soul stand out in its class?

The Electric Car Kia Soul stands out with its quirky design, spacious interior, and an EPA-estimated 250-mile range on a single charge. Its fast-charging capability (80% in 45 minutes) and affordable pricing make it a strong contender in the compact EV segment.

How does the Kia Soul EV’s performance compare to gas-powered models?

The Kia Soul EV delivers instant torque with its 201-hp electric motor, offering quicker acceleration than its gas counterparts. It also provides a smoother, quieter ride and lower maintenance costs thanks to fewer moving parts.

What are the key tech features in the latest Kia Soul EV?

The latest model boasts a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. Driver-assist features like Highway Driving Assist and adaptive cruise control enhance safety and convenience.

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

With a Level 2 (240V) charger, the Soul EV reaches a full charge in about 9.5 hours. DC fast charging can replenish 80% of the battery in just 45 minutes, ideal for road trips.

Is the Kia Soul EV spacious enough for families?

Yes, the Soul EV offers 24.2 cubic feet of cargo space (expandable to 62.1) and comfortable seating for five. Its boxy design maximizes headroom and legroom, making it practical for daily commutes and weekend getaways.

What is the warranty coverage for the Kia Soul EV?

Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile comprehensive vehicle warranty. This industry-leading coverage provides peace of mind for long-term EV ownership.