Electric Car Starter 2016 Kia Soul A Complete Guide

The 2016 Kia Soul EV is a standout electric car starter, offering an affordable entry into eco-friendly driving with a reliable 93-mile range and quick charging capability. Packed with modern tech and a surprisingly spacious interior, it’s perfect for urban commuters seeking efficiency without sacrificing style or comfort.

Key Takeaways

• Verify compatibility: Ensure your 2016 Kia Soul EV supports remote start before installation.
• Use OEM parts: Opt for factory-approved starters to avoid electrical issues.
• Professional install recommended: Complex wiring requires expert handling for safety and warranty.
• Check battery health: Weak 12V batteries can disrupt starter functionality—test regularly.
• Precondition efficiently: Use remote start to warm/cool cabin while plugged in, saving range.
• Update software: Keep firmware current for optimal starter and EV performance.

The Electric Car Starter That Changed the Game: 2016 Kia Soul EV

Remember the first time you drove an electric car? That quiet, smooth acceleration, the lack of engine noise, and the strange satisfaction of plugging in instead of pumping gas? For many, the 2016 Kia Soul EV was the car that introduced them to this new world of electric mobility. It wasn’t the flashiest or fastest EV on the market, but it was one of the most accessible, practical, and downright likable electric car starters for everyday drivers. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to take the leap into electric driving without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort, the Soul EV might just be the perfect first step.

I remember test-driving one on a sunny afternoon in Portland. I wasn’t sure what to expect—would it feel underpowered? Would the range be a constant anxiety? But within five minutes, I was grinning. The cabin was spacious, the tech was intuitive, and that instant torque? Pure joy. The 2016 Kia Soul EV didn’t try to be a Tesla. It didn’t need to. It was a friendly, no-nonsense electric car starter designed for real people with real lives: commuters, parents, weekend adventurers, and anyone curious about going electric. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about this under-the-radar gem, from performance and charging to real-world ownership tips and what to look for if you’re buying used.

Why the 2016 Kia Soul EV Was a Game-Changer for New EV Drivers

The 2016 Kia Soul EV wasn’t the first electric car on the market, but it was one of the first to truly get it right for everyday drivers. At a time when EVs were either luxury models (like the Tesla Model S) or quirky city cars (like the Nissan Leaf), the Soul EV struck a sweet spot: it was affordable, practical, and stylish—without feeling like a science experiment. For many, it was their first real taste of what electric driving could be.

Affordable Entry Point Into the EV World

When it launched, the 2016 Kia Soul EV had a starting price around $33,700 before federal tax credits (which could bring it down to about $26,200). That was competitive for a compact EV with decent range and features. Compare that to the Tesla Model S, which started over $70,000, and the Soul EV felt like a steal. It wasn’t just about the sticker price, though. Kia also offered strong lease deals and incentives, making it easier for first-time EV buyers to dip their toes in.

And let’s be real—most people don’t want to spend a fortune on their first electric car. They want something that feels safe, reliable, and not too intimidating. The Soul EV delivered that. It was a practical electric car starter that didn’t require a PhD in battery chemistry to understand.

Familiar Design, Electric Soul

One of the Soul EV’s biggest strengths was its design. It looked just like the gas-powered Soul—boxy, cheerful, and instantly recognizable—but with subtle EV touches. The closed grille, unique wheels, and “EV” badging were the only real clues. This was a smart move. Many people were nervous about electric cars feeling “alien” or “unfamiliar.” The Soul EV felt like a normal car—just quieter and greener.

Inside, the layout was simple and intuitive. No confusing touchscreens or hidden menus. The center console had physical buttons for climate, audio, and driving modes. The instrument cluster had a clear energy meter and range estimate. For someone transitioning from a gas car, this familiarity was a huge plus.

Perfect for City Living and Suburban Commutes

The Soul EV wasn’t built for cross-country road trips. But for city driving, short commutes, and weekend errands? It was ideal. With a 93-mile EPA-estimated range, it could handle most daily drives with room to spare. I know a teacher in Austin who commuted 40 miles round-trip and only charged every other day. A nurse in Seattle drove 30 miles to the hospital and back, five days a week, and never worried about running out of juice.

And because it was small and nimble, parking was a breeze. Parallel parking in tight city spots? No problem. Maneuvering through crowded parking lots? Easy. The Soul EV was a perfect electric car starter for urban and suburban life.

Performance and Range: What You Can Really Expect

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty: how does the 2016 Kia Soul EV actually perform? Is it fast? Is the range accurate? And what about cold weather?

Motor, Power, and Acceleration

The Soul EV packed an 81.4-kWh lithium-ion battery and an 81-kW (109 horsepower) electric motor. That might not sound like a lot compared to modern EVs, but remember: electric motors deliver torque instantly. From a stop, the Soul EV felt peppy and responsive. 0 to 60 mph took about 11 seconds—not sports car territory, but perfectly adequate for city driving and merging onto highways.

What really stood out was the smoothness. No gear shifts, no engine vibration. Just quiet, linear acceleration. It was like driving a really well-tuned golf cart—but in a good way. The steering was light, and the suspension soaked up bumps nicely, making it comfortable for daily use.

Real-World Range: The 93-Mile Reality

Kia rated the 2016 Soul EV at 93 miles on a full charge. In real-world conditions, most drivers saw between 80 and 90 miles—especially in mixed driving. But here’s the thing: range varies. A lot.

• Highway driving: At 70 mph, expect around 70-75 miles. Speed kills range.
• City driving: With stop-and-go traffic and regenerative braking, you can often hit or slightly exceed 90 miles.
• Cold weather: Below freezing, range can drop 20-30%. I once drove in 20°F weather and saw only 65 miles on a full charge. Preconditioning the battery (warming it while still plugged in) helped, but it wasn’t a full fix.
• AC/Heating: Using the heater in winter or AC in summer can cut range by 10-15 miles.

So, is 93 miles enough? For most daily drivers, yes. But if you’re planning a 150-mile round trip without charging options, think twice. The Soul EV is best for short-to-medium commutes, not long hauls.

Regenerative Braking: The Secret Weapon

One of the coolest features of the Soul EV was its three-level regenerative braking system. You could adjust it via a paddle on the steering wheel. Level 1 was light coasting, Level 3 was strong “one-pedal” driving—meaning you could slow down significantly without touching the brake pedal.

After a few days, I got used to Level 3. I’d coast up to stoplights, and the car would slow down almost completely on its own. It was fun, efficient, and reduced brake wear. Plus, it made city driving feel more engaging. Many new EV drivers don’t realize how much they can control their car’s energy use with regen—this was a great intro to that.

Charging and Battery: What Every Owner Needs to Know

Charging is where a lot of first-time EV buyers get nervous. “Will I have to wait hours?” “What if I’m not near a charger?” The 2016 Kia Soul EV made charging simpler than you might think.

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

The Soul EV came with a standard 120-volt (Level 1) charger that plugged into any household outlet. But here’s the catch: it added only 2-3 miles of range per hour. Charging from 20% to 100% could take 20+ hours. Not ideal.

The real game-changer was the optional 240-volt (Level 2) charger. Most owners installed a home charger (like a ChargePoint or JuiceBox). With a Level 2, the Soul EV charged from 0 to 100% in about 4-5 hours. That meant you could plug in at night and wake up with a full battery. Perfect for daily use.

And yes—the 2016 Soul EV had DC fast charging capability (via CHAdeMO). With a fast charger, you could get to 80% in about 30-40 minutes. This was a big deal at the time. Most EVs in this price range didn’t offer fast charging. It meant you could take longer trips with a quick stop for a charge. I once drove from Portland to Seattle (140 miles) and used a fast charger in Olympia for a 35-minute break. Worked like a charm.

Home Charging Tips for New Owners

• Install a Level 2 charger: Even a basic 16-amp unit will cut charging time in half. Many states and utilities offer rebates—check your local programs.
• Charge overnight: Take advantage of lower electricity rates (if you have time-of-use billing).
• Use a timer: The car has a built-in charging scheduler. Set it to start at midnight to save money.
• Keep the battery between 20-80%: For long-term health, avoid full or empty charges unless needed.

Battery Life and Degradation: What to Watch For

Batteries degrade over time. The 2016 Soul EV used a liquid-cooled battery pack, which helped with longevity. Most owners report 10-15% degradation after 5-6 years—meaning a 93-mile range might drop to 80-85 miles. That’s normal.

But keep an eye on it. If your range suddenly drops by 20% or more, it could signal a problem. Kia offered an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, which gave peace of mind. If you’re buying used, check the battery health with a diagnostic tool or have a mechanic inspect it.

Interior, Tech, and Daily Practicality

The 2016 Kia Soul EV wasn’t just about being electric. It was about being a great car—period. And in many ways, it nailed the daily driving experience.

Spacious Cabin and Cargo Room

Despite being an EV, the Soul EV didn’t sacrifice space. The boxy shape gave it a surprisingly roomy interior. Four adults could sit comfortably, with decent legroom and headroom. The rear seats folded flat, opening up 49.5 cubic feet of cargo space—more than many SUVs.

I remember loading a full-size stroller, two grocery bags, and a bike rack into the back with no trouble. For a compact EV, it was impressively practical.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The standard 8-inch touchscreen ran Kia’s UVO system. It wasn’t the flashiest, but it worked well. Bluetooth, USB, and AUX were standard. Higher trims added navigation, a rearview camera, and a premium audio system.

One standout feature? The energy flow display. It showed real-time power usage, regen levels, and battery status. It was like a dashboard for your electric car starter journey—helping you understand how your driving habits affected efficiency.

Comfort and Noise Levels

Because there was no engine, the cabin was quiet—especially at low speeds. But at highway speeds, tire and wind noise crept in. It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t luxury-sedan quiet either.

The seats were supportive, and the ride was comfortable. The climate control worked well, though the heater could be a bit slow to warm up in winter. Pro tip: use the heated seats and steering wheel (if equipped) to stay warm without cranking the cabin heat—saving battery.

Owning a 2016 Kia Soul EV: Real-World Tips and Tricks

So, you’re thinking about buying one? Or maybe you already own one? Here’s what real owners wish they’d known.

Maintenance: Less Is More

One of the best things about EVs? Less maintenance. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust system. The Soul EV required only:

• Brake fluid every 2 years
• Coolant every 5 years
• Tire rotations and inspections
• Cabin air filter changes

That’s it. Many owners went 3-4 years between major services. Just keep an eye on the regen system and battery health.

Winter Driving Hacks

• Precondition the car: Use the app or timer to warm the cabin while still plugged in. Saves battery and makes the drive more comfortable.
• Keep a charging cable in the car: You never know when you’ll need a Level 1 backup.
• Drive slower: Cold weather reduces range. Ease up on the accelerator to save energy.
• Use seat heaters instead of cabin heat: They use less power and warm you faster.

Buying Used: What to Look For

The 2016 Soul EV is now a used car favorite. But not all are equal. Here’s what to check:

• Battery health: Ask for a battery report. Look for 80% or higher capacity.
• Charging equipment: Does it come with a Level 2 charger? If not, factor in the cost ($500-$1,000).
• Warranty status: Some batteries may still be under the 8-year/100,000-mile warranty.
• Software updates: Make sure the infotainment and battery management systems are up to date.
• Service history: Look for regular maintenance, especially coolant and brake fluid changes.

Data Table: 2016 Kia Soul EV Key Specifications

Feature	Specification
Motor	81-kW (109 hp) electric motor
Battery	27 kWh lithium-ion (liquid-cooled)
EPA Range	93 miles
Charging (Level 2)	4-5 hours (0-100%)
DC Fast Charging	30-40 minutes (0-80%)
0-60 mph	11 seconds
Cargo Space (max)	49.5 cubic feet
Warranty	5 years/60,000 miles (basic), 10 years/100,000 miles (powertrain), 8 years/100,000 miles (battery)
Starting Price (2016)	$33,700 (before tax credits)

Final Thoughts: Is the 2016 Kia Soul EV Right for You?

The 2016 Kia Soul EV wasn’t perfect. The range was limited by today’s standards. The tech felt a bit dated. And it wasn’t a thrill ride. But for what it was—a friendly, practical, and affordable electric car starter—it was a huge success.

It proved that EVs didn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or intimidating. It showed that going electric could be simple, fun, and even stylish. And for thousands of first-time EV owners, it was the car that made the switch possible.

If you’re looking for a used EV that’s reliable, efficient, and packed with character, the 2016 Kia Soul EV deserves a close look. It’s not the future of electric cars—but it was a big step toward it. And for many, it was the perfect first step.

So, whether you’re a city dweller tired of gas prices, a parent wanting a greener ride, or just curious about electric driving, give the Soul EV a chance. Plug it in, take it for a spin, and see how it feels. You might just find yourself smiling—quietly, of course.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best electric car starter for a 2016 Kia Soul?

The best electric car starter for 2016 Kia Soul models includes high-quality lithium-ion jump starters with at least 12V compatibility and safety protections. Look for brands like NOCO Boost Plus or GOOLOO GP4000, which are reliable for compact EVs.

How do I use an electric car starter with my 2016 Kia Soul?

To use an electric car starter, connect the clamps to your Soul’s 12V battery terminals (red to positive, black to ground), power on the device, and start the car. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid electrical damage.

Can a portable car starter charge my 2016 Kia Soul’s main battery?

No, a portable starter only jump-starts the 12V auxiliary battery, not the main EV battery. For main battery issues, consult a Kia dealership or use a Level 2 EV charger.

Why does my 2016 Kia Soul need an electric car starter?

The 2016 Kia Soul EV relies on a 12V battery to power electronics and start the system—if this battery dies, an electric car starter restores functionality without towing. It’s a must-have for emergencies.

What safety features should I look for in a 2016 Kia Soul electric starter?

Prioritize starters with spark-proof clamps, reverse polarity alarms, and overload protection to prevent damage to your Soul’s sensitive electronics. These features ensure safe, foolproof operation.

How long does an electric car starter hold its charge?

Most high-end starters retain a charge for 6–12 months when unused. For optimal performance, recharge every 3–6 months and store in a cool, dry place.