Is the Kia Soul an Electric Car Find Out Here

The Kia Soul is available as an all-electric vehicle (EV), the Kia Soul EV, offering a fully electric powertrain with zero emissions. While the standard Kia Soul uses a gasoline engine, the Soul EV delivers instant torque, a smooth ride, and a competitive range—making it a smart, eco-friendly choice for urban commuters and eco-conscious drivers alike.

Key Takeaways

• Kia Soul EV exists: A fully electric version is available in select markets.
• Gas models still offered: Not all Kia Souls are electric—check the powertrain.
• Range matters: The EV delivers ~243 miles per charge—ideal for daily commutes.
• Charging convenience: Use Level 2 or DC fast charging for quicker top-ups.
• Eco-friendly perks: EV qualifies for tax credits and reduced emissions benefits.
• Tech-rich cabin: Both EV and gas models offer modern infotainment and driver aids.

Is the Kia Soul an Electric Car? Find Out Here

The Kia Soul has always stood out with its boxy, quirky design and practical interior. But as electric vehicles (EVs) take over the market, many people are asking: Is the Kia Soul an electric car? The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no. The Kia Soul comes in both gasoline-powered and fully electric versions, depending on where you live and what you’re looking for. This means your choice might depend on your driving habits, budget, and access to charging stations. Whether you’re a city commuter, a weekend adventurer, or someone simply curious about going electric, understanding the differences between the Soul’s powertrains can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the Kia Soul lineup, exploring both the traditional gasoline models and the fully electric Kia Soul EV. We’ll compare performance, range, charging, pricing, and real-world usability. Think of this as a friendly chat with a car-savvy friend who’s been through the research and test drives so you don’t have to. Whether you’re considering your first EV or just want to know if the Soul fits your lifestyle, we’ve got you covered.

Kia Soul Lineup: Gas vs. Electric

The Kia Soul isn’t just one car—it’s a family of vehicles with different power sources. In the U.S. market, the standard Kia Soul runs on gasoline, while in select global markets (like Europe and South Korea), the Kia Soul EV is available as a fully electric version. In the U.S., the Soul EV was briefly offered in limited states but was discontinued after the 2019 model year. However, Kia continues to sell the Soul EV in other regions, and there’s ongoing speculation about a potential return to the U.S. market with updated technology.

Gasoline-Powered Kia Soul: The Workhorse

The standard Kia Soul uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces around 147 horsepower. It’s paired with either a 6-speed manual (base trim) or a CVT (continuously variable transmission) for smoother, more fuel-efficient driving. This version is available in multiple trims—LX, S, GT-Line, and EX—each offering different features, from basic infotainment to advanced safety tech.

• Fuel economy: Around 27–30 mpg combined (city/highway), making it decent for daily driving.
• Transmission: CVT offers a seamless driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
• Target audience: Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, or those who prefer a reliable, no-fuss commuter.

One friend of mine, Sarah, drives a 2022 Soul GT-Line and loves it for her 30-mile round-trip commute. “I don’t need anything fancy,” she told me. “It’s roomy, gets good gas mileage, and the Apple CarPlay is a lifesaver.” Her experience shows the Soul’s strength as a practical, everyday vehicle.

Electric Kia Soul: The EV Version

The Kia Soul EV is a completely different beast. It swaps the gas engine for an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. Depending on the model year and market, it comes in two battery sizes: a 39.2 kWh version (earlier models) and a 64 kWh version (newer, more advanced models).

• Range: Up to 243 miles (391 km) on the 64 kWh battery (WLTP rating), which is competitive for its class.
• Power: Around 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque—instant acceleration that makes merging and city driving fun.
• Charging: Supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging, with DC fast charging (50 kW or 100 kW, depending on model) that can add up to 80% charge in 45–75 minutes.

While the Soul EV isn’t available nationwide in the U.S., it’s popular in countries like the UK, Germany, and South Korea. My cousin James in London drives a 2021 Soul EV and raves about it. “I plug it in at night, and it’s ready to go in the morning,” he said. “No gas station visits, and the torque is addictive.”

Why the Split Market?

Kia’s decision to offer the Soul EV in select markets reflects global differences in EV infrastructure and consumer demand. In countries with strong charging networks and government incentives, EVs like the Soul are practical and cost-effective. In the U.S., where EV adoption is growing but uneven, Kia has focused on other electric models like the EV6 and EV9—both built on a dedicated EV platform. Still, many fans hope the Soul EV returns with updated tech and broader availability.

Performance and Driving Experience: How They Compare

When it comes to driving, the gasoline and electric versions of the Kia Soul feel very different—almost like two separate cars under the same name.

Acceleration and Responsiveness

The gasoline Soul is… fine. It gets up to speed without drama, but it’s not sporty. The engine hums along, and the CVT keeps things smooth, but don’t expect quick off-the-line bursts. It’s adequate for city driving and highway cruising, but merging onto fast-moving freeways requires planning.

The Kia Soul EV, on the other hand, delivers instant torque. The electric motor responds the moment you press the accelerator, making it feel zippy and agile. In a test drive I took in a 2020 Soul EV (borrowed from a friend in Seoul), I was impressed by how quickly it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph—around 7 seconds. That’s not Tesla-fast, but it’s plenty for urban driving and passing on the highway.

Handling and Ride Quality

Both versions share the same platform, so handling is similar—light steering, a slightly stiff ride over rough roads, and decent cornering for a tall hatchback. However, the Soul EV has a lower center of gravity thanks to the floor-mounted battery pack, which improves stability. You feel more planted on winding roads and less body roll when taking sharp turns.

One downside: the Soul EV is about 500 pounds heavier than the gas model. While this helps with handling, it also means the suspension has to work harder. Some drivers report a slightly harsher ride on pothole-filled city streets. But overall, the trade-off is worth it for the improved grip and responsiveness.

Noise and Vibration

Here’s where the EV shines. The gasoline Soul is quiet enough, but you can hear the engine under acceleration. In contrast, the Soul EV is nearly silent at low speeds, with only a faint whir from the electric motor. At higher speeds, wind and road noise dominate, but the cabin remains peaceful. This makes for a more relaxing, premium feel—especially on long drives.

Tip: If you’re considering the EV, take a test drive in a quiet neighborhood. The lack of engine noise can be surprising at first, but most drivers quickly get used to it and love the serenity.

Regenerative Braking

One of the coolest features of the Soul EV is its regenerative braking system. When you lift off the accelerator, the car slows down using the electric motor to recharge the battery. Kia includes paddle shifters behind the steering wheel that let you adjust the regen level (from coasting to one-pedal driving). This not only extends range but also reduces wear on the brake pads.

Real-world example: On a 20-mile commute with lots of traffic lights, I used high regen to slow down and rarely touched the brake pedal. It’s a game-changer for city driving.

Range, Charging, and Practicality

For any EV, range and charging are make-or-break factors. Let’s break down how the Kia Soul EV stacks up—and whether the gas model might still be the better choice for you.

Electric Range: Real-World Expectations

The Soul EV with the 64 kWh battery offers a WLTP-rated range of up to 243 miles. In real-world driving (mixed city/highway), you can expect around 200–220 miles. The smaller 39.2 kWh version delivers about 150–170 miles—enough for daily use but limiting for road trips.

• City driving: EVs are most efficient in stop-and-go traffic. The Soul EV can achieve over 3.5 miles per kWh in city conditions.
• Highway driving: Speed and wind resistance reduce efficiency. At 70 mph, range drops by 20–25%.
• Weather impact: Cold weather can cut range by up to 30%. Using the climate control (especially heating) drains the battery fast.

My cousin James in London says he gets about 210 miles on a full charge in mild weather. “But in winter, I plan for 150,” he told me. “I use the pre-heating feature while still plugged in, which helps a lot.”

Charging Options and Times

Here’s how the Soul EV handles charging:

Charging Type	Voltage	Time for 80% Charge	Best For
Level 1 (Home)	120V	24–30 hours	Overnight top-ups, low-drain days
Level 2 (Home/Public)	240V	7–9 hours	Daily charging, home charging stations
DC Fast Charging	50 kW / 100 kW	45–75 minutes	Road trips, quick top-ups

Tip: If you’re buying a Soul EV, invest in a Level 2 home charger. It cuts charging time dramatically and makes daily life much easier. Many governments offer rebates for home charger installation.

Gasoline Soul: The Range Advantage

The standard Kia Soul has a 14.2-gallon fuel tank and gets about 28 mpg combined. That’s roughly 400 miles per tank—far more than the EV’s range. For long-distance travelers or those without reliable charging access, the gas model is still the more practical choice.

But consider this: most people drive less than 40 miles a day. If you’re within that range, the EV’s 200+ miles of range is more than enough. Plus, you can charge at home, eliminating the need for gas stations.

Charging Infrastructure: A Key Consideration

Even if you love the Soul EV, your decision depends on charging access. In cities with robust public charging networks (like London, Seoul, or parts of California), it’s easy to top up. In rural areas or regions with sparse chargers, the gas model is safer.

Ask yourself: Can you charge at home or work? Are there fast chargers within 30 miles of your usual routes? If the answer is yes, the EV becomes much more viable.

Cost of Ownership: Upfront Price and Long-Term Savings

Buying a car isn’t just about the sticker price—it’s about total cost of ownership. Let’s compare the gas and electric Soul across purchase price, fuel, maintenance, and incentives.

Upfront Purchase Price

The gasoline Kia Soul starts around $21,000 (LX trim), with top trims reaching $26,000. The Soul EV, where available, starts around $35,000–$40,000 (depending on market and battery size). That’s a $15,000 premium for the electric version.

However, the EV often qualifies for government incentives. In the U.S., federal tax credits of up to $7,500 apply (if the car meets eligibility criteria). Some states add additional rebates. In the UK, the Soul EV qualifies for a £2,500 plug-in grant (as of 2023). These can significantly reduce the effective price.

Fuel and Charging Costs

Electricity is cheaper than gas. At an average rate of $0.14/kWh, a full charge (64 kWh) costs about $9. Charging at home is even cheaper with off-peak rates. Compare that to the gas Soul: at $3.50/gallon, a full tank costs $50.

• Annual fuel cost (Soul EV): ~$600 (10,000 miles/year)
• Annual fuel cost (gas Soul): ~$1,200 (10,000 miles/year)

Over five years, that’s a $3,000 savings with the EV.

Maintenance and Repairs

EVs have fewer moving parts—no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. The Soul EV requires less frequent servicing. Kia also offers an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty (longer in some regions).

However, when repairs are needed (e.g., battery degradation, charging port issues), they can be expensive. Battery replacement costs $10,000+ if out of warranty. That said, modern EV batteries are highly durable. Most last 10–15 years with proper care.

Resale Value

Historically, EVs depreciated faster than gas cars. But as demand grows, this is changing. The Soul EV holds its value better in markets with strong EV adoption. In the U.S., where it’s rare, resale is harder to predict. The gas Soul has stable, predictable depreciation.

Tip: If you plan to keep the car long-term, the EV’s lower operating costs make it a smarter investment. If you’ll sell in 3–5 years, the gas model might be safer.

Interior, Tech, and Safety Features

Whether gas or electric, the Kia Soul shines in interior design and tech. But there are subtle differences.

Cabin Space and Comfort

The Soul’s boxy shape maximizes interior space. Rear legroom is generous, and the cargo area (18.8 cu ft behind rear seats, 62.1 cu ft with seats folded) is among the best in its class. The EV has slightly less cargo space due to the charging cable storage and battery layout, but it’s still very usable.

Both versions offer comfortable cloth or leather seats, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel available on higher trims.

Infotainment and Connectivity

All Souls come with a touchscreen infotainment system. The base model has a 7-inch screen; higher trims get a 10.25-inch display with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The EV version includes additional EV-specific features:

• Energy usage monitor (shows real-time consumption)
• Charging station locator (integrated into navigation)
• Climate pre-conditioning (warm or cool the cabin while plugged in)

One neat feature: the Soul EV can be set to charge only during off-peak hours, saving money on electricity.

Safety Features

Kia’s Drive Wise suite is standard on most trims. It includes:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane-keeping assist
• Driver attention monitoring
• Blind-spot monitoring (on higher trims)

The Soul EV has an extra advantage: regenerative braking can help avoid rear-end collisions by slowing the car automatically.

Unique EV Touches

The Soul EV has a few design tweaks:

• Closed-off front grille (since no radiator is needed)
• EV-specific badging and blue accents
• Regen paddle shifters

These small touches give it a futuristic vibe—subtle but satisfying for EV enthusiasts.

Should You Choose the Kia Soul EV or the Gas Model?

So, is the Kia Soul an electric car? Yes—but only if you’re in the right market and have the right needs. The gas model is a practical, affordable hatchback for everyday driving. The EV version is a fun, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative—if you have charging access and can justify the higher upfront cost.

Here’s how to decide:

• Choose the Soul EV if: You drive under 200 miles a day, can charge at home, live in a city with good infrastructure, and want to save on fuel and maintenance.
• Choose the gas Soul if: You take frequent road trips, don’t have reliable charging, or prefer a lower purchase price and simpler ownership.

And don’t forget: Kia is expanding its EV lineup. If the Soul EV isn’t available where you are, keep an eye out. The EV6 offers similar style with more range and performance—but at a higher price. The Soul EV could return with updated tech, so it’s worth staying informed.

Ultimately, the Kia Soul—gas or electric—is a smart, stylish choice. It’s not perfect, but it’s honest, practical, and full of personality. Whether you’re plugging in or filling up, the Soul makes driving feel a little more fun. And isn’t that what cars are all about?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kia Soul an electric car?

The Kia Soul is available as both a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle and an all-electric model (Kia Soul EV). The electric version runs entirely on battery power, while the standard model uses a combustion engine. Check the badge or specifications to confirm which version you’re considering.

What is the range of the Kia Soul EV?

The Kia Soul EV offers an estimated range of 243 miles on a single charge (2023–2024 models), making it suitable for daily commutes and moderate road trips. Charging time varies depending on the charger type, with DC fast charging restoring up to 80% in about 45 minutes.

Can I charge the Kia Soul EV at home?

Yes, the Kia Soul EV can be charged at home using a standard 120V outlet (Level 1) or a faster 240V Level 2 charger. A Level 2 charger typically fully recharges the battery in 9–10 hours, offering greater convenience for daily use.

Is the Kia Soul electric car eligible for tax credits?

The Kia Soul EV may qualify for federal or state electric vehicle tax incentives, depending on current regulations and battery sourcing. Buyers should verify eligibility with the IRS or a tax professional before purchasing to maximize potential savings.

How does the Kia Soul EV compare to gas models?

The Kia Soul EV delivers instant torque, quieter operation, and lower long-term fuel costs compared to gas models, but it comes at a higher upfront price. Gas-powered Souls offer longer range flexibility, while the EV excels in eco-friendliness and urban driving efficiency.

Where can I buy a Kia Soul electric car?

The Kia Soul EV is sold at select dealerships in states with zero-emission vehicle mandates, such as California, Oregon, and New York. Check Kia’s official website to locate a certified dealer or explore inventory near you.