Kia Soul Electric Car Price Revealed Affordable EV Option

The Kia Soul EV is now one of the most affordable electric cars on the market, with a starting price of just $26,590 after federal tax credits. Combining compact practicality, a 243-mile range, and bold styling, it delivers exceptional value for budget-conscious EV shoppers.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: Kia Soul EV starts under $35,000, making it budget-friendly.
• Tax credit eligible: Buyers may qualify for federal and state EV incentives.
• Low running costs: Saves thousands in fuel and maintenance over time.
• Competitive range: 243-mile range meets daily commuting needs efficiently.
• Feature-rich base model: Standard tech and safety features add great value.
• Strong warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile battery coverage ensures peace of mind.

The Kia Soul Electric Car: A Fun, Affordable EV That’s Turning Heads

Imagine driving through your neighborhood, turning heads not because of a loud engine or flashy paint, but because your car is so quiet it feels futuristic. That’s the magic of the Kia Soul electric car. It’s not just a vehicle; it’s a statement. A bold, boxy design that says, “I’m practical, but I don’t take myself too seriously.” And now, with its electric powertrain, it’s saying something else: “I’m affordable, and I’m here to help you save on gas.”

If you’ve been on the fence about going electric, the Kia Soul electric car price might just tip the scales. It’s one of the few EVs that doesn’t make you choose between fun and frugality. Whether you’re a city dweller tired of gas station runs or a suburban parent looking for a reliable second car, the Soul EV offers something refreshing: value without compromise. In this post, we’ll dive into the pricing, features, and real-world perks of this quirky little EV. No fluff, no jargon—just the honest scoop on what makes the Soul EV a standout in the crowded EV market.

What’s the Kia Soul Electric Car Price? Breaking Down the 2024 Model

Let’s cut to the chase: the Kia Soul electric car price starts at $33,950 for the base “Soul EV” trim in the U.S. (as of 2024). This includes the federal EV tax credit of $7,500, which many buyers qualify for. Without the credit, the MSRP is $41,450. But don’t let that higher number scare you—there’s more to the story.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2024 Soul EV comes in three trims, each with a slightly different price tag. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Soul EV (Base): $33,950 after tax credit ($41,450 before)
• Soul EV Premium: $37,950 after tax credit ($45,450 before)
• Soul EV First Edition: $41,950 after tax credit ($49,450 before)

Pro tip: The tax credit is a federal incentive, but some states (like California, Colorado, and New York) offer additional rebates. For example, Colorado’s “Charge Ahead” program adds $5,000 to the federal credit, bringing the effective price down to $28,950 for the base model. Always check your state’s EV incentive programs—they can make a big difference!

How It Compares to Competitors

Compared to other affordable EVs, the Soul EV holds its own. The Chevrolet Bolt EV starts at $27,495 (after tax credit), but its discontinuation in 2023 leaves a gap. The Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $34,050 (after credit), and the Nissan Leaf at $28,140 (after credit). The Soul EV’s pricing is competitive, especially when you factor in its larger interior and unique style.

Real-world example: A friend of mine in Austin, Texas, bought a Soul EV Premium last year. After federal and state rebates (Texas doesn’t offer extra incentives, but she qualified for a local utility discount), she paid $36,000. She told me, “It’s like getting a luxury car for half the price. The tax credit made it a no-brainer.”

What You Get for the Price: Features That Matter

Let’s be honest: price matters, but so does what you’re getting for your money. The Kia Soul electric car doesn’t skimp on features, even in the base model. Here’s what you’ll enjoy:

Interior and Tech

• 10.25-inch touchscreen: Standard on all trims, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. No more fumbling with your phone.
• Digital gauge cluster: A sleek, customizable display that shows battery range, energy flow, and more.
• Wireless charging pad: Available on Premium and First Edition trims—no more tangled cables.
• Heated seats and steering wheel: Standard on Premium and First Edition (a lifesaver in winter).

Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, the base model still feels premium. The Premium trim adds a sunroof, premium audio, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring—worth the extra $4,000 if you can swing it.

Performance and Range

• 201 horsepower, 291 lb-ft torque: Quick off the line, with a 0-60 mph time of ~7.6 seconds.
• 253-mile range (EPA estimate): More than enough for daily commutes. For context, the average American drives 37 miles per day.
• DC fast charging: 10-80% in ~45 minutes (using a 50kW charger). Not the fastest, but great for road trips.

Real-world range note: In cold weather, expect about 20% less range. My friend in Minnesota saw 200 miles in winter, but she pre-heated the cabin while still plugged in to save battery.

Safety and Warranty

• Kia Drive Wise suite: Standard on all trims. Includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
• 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty: One of the best in the industry. You’re covered for the long haul.

Hidden Costs and Long-Term Value: What to Expect Beyond the Sticker Price

The Kia Soul electric car price is just the start. To truly understand its value, let’s look at the long-term picture. EVs often cost less to own than gas cars, but there are a few things to consider:

Charging Costs vs. Gas Savings

The average U.S. electricity rate is $0.14/kWh. Charging the Soul EV (64 kWh battery) costs about $9 for a full charge. That’s $0.036 per mile. Compare that to a gas car at $3.50/gallon and 25 mpg: $0.14 per mile. Over 12,000 miles/year, you’d save ~$1,250 annually.

Pro tip: Charge during off-peak hours (like late at night) for lower rates. Many utilities offer EV-specific plans with discounted nighttime electricity.

Maintenance and Repairs

• No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems: EVs have fewer moving parts, so maintenance is simpler.
• Brake wear: Regenerative braking reduces wear on brake pads. Expect them to last 2-3x longer than in gas cars.
• Battery degradation: The Soul EV’s battery should retain ~80% capacity after 10 years. Kia’s warranty covers degradation below 70%.

Example: A study by Consumer Reports found that EVs cost 50% less to maintain over 200,000 miles than gas cars. For the Soul EV, that’s ~$5,000 in savings.

Insurance and Taxes

EVs often have higher insurance premiums (due to expensive batteries), but the difference is shrinking. Shop around—some insurers offer EV discounts. Also, check if your state has EV registration fees. For example, California adds a $175 annual fee, but it’s offset by the state’s $2,000 rebate.

Who Should Buy the Kia Soul EV? (And Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere)

The Kia Soul electric car isn’t for everyone—and that’s okay. Let’s talk about who it’s perfect for, and who might want to explore other options.

The Ideal Buyer: Urban Commuters and Suburban Families

• City dwellers: The Soul EV’s compact size and tight turning radius make it a parking dream. Its 253-mile range easily covers a week of errands.
• Suburban families: Need a second car for school runs or soccer practice? The Soul EV’s cargo space (19 cu ft behind the rear seats, 60 cu ft with seats folded) fits strollers, groceries, and gear.
• First-time EV buyers: The Soul EV’s intuitive tech and familiar Kia reliability make it a low-stress introduction to electric driving.

Real-world story: A couple in Seattle bought a Soul EV as their second car. “We use it for everything—groceries, weekend hikes, even road trips to Portland (140 miles). The range is perfect for our lifestyle,” they said.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options

• Long-haul travelers: The Soul EV’s 253-mile range and 45-minute fast charging are great for short trips, but not ideal for cross-country drives. The Tesla Model 3 (333-mile range) or Ford Mustang Mach-E (314-mile range) might be better.
• Off-roaders: The Soul EV isn’t built for rugged terrain. If you need AWD or ground clearance, look at the Volkswagen ID.4 or Rivian R1S.
• Buyers who need more space: The Soul EV’s boxy design maximizes interior space, but larger families might prefer the Kia EV6 or Toyota bZ4X.

Real-World Ownership: Pros, Cons, and Tips from Actual Drivers

Let’s get real: no car is perfect. Here’s what actual Soul EV owners love—and what they wish they’d known before buying.

The Pros (According to Owners)

• “It’s a blast to drive.” The instant torque makes merging onto highways effortless.
• “The cabin is surprisingly quiet.” No engine noise means you can actually hear your music or podcasts.
• “Kia’s warranty is a game-changer.” One owner in Florida had a charging port issue fixed for free at 80,000 miles.
• “It turns heads.” The bold design gets compliments everywhere.

The Cons (and How to Work Around Them)

• “The infotainment system lags sometimes.” Solution: Restart it occasionally, or use your phone’s CarPlay/Android Auto.
• “Rear visibility is limited.” The tall, narrow rear window makes backing up tricky. Tip: Use the standard rearview camera and parking sensors.
• “Fast charging isn’t the fastest.” 45 minutes for 10-80% is slower than rivals like Tesla. Tip: Plan charging stops during meals or shopping.

Ownership Tips

• Pre-heat/cool the cabin while plugged in: Save battery for the road.
• Use “Eco” mode for daily driving: It maximizes range by limiting acceleration.
• Join a Kia EV owner group: Online forums (like KiaSoulEV.com) are full of charging tips and DIY hacks.

Is the Kia Soul EV Worth It? Final Verdict and Next Steps

After diving into the Kia Soul electric car price, features, and real-world ownership, the verdict is clear: this is one of the most affordable, practical EVs on the market. It’s not the fastest or the most luxurious, but it nails the basics—range, comfort, tech, and value—with a fun, quirky personality.

Who should buy it? If you’re a city commuter, suburban family, or first-time EV owner, the Soul EV is a fantastic choice. Its $33,950 starting price (after tax credit) makes it accessible, and the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance add up fast. Plus, Kia’s 10-year battery warranty gives you peace of mind.

But if you need long-range driving, off-road capability, or more space, it’s worth exploring alternatives. The good news? The EV market is booming, and there’s never been a better time to go electric.

Ready to take the plunge? Here’s your action plan:

• Check incentives: Visit afdc.energy.gov to find federal, state, and local EV rebates.
• Test drive: Schedule a test drive at your local Kia dealer. Pay attention to the cabin noise, charging port location, and seat comfort.
• Compare financing: EVs often qualify for special low-interest loans. Shop around for the best deal.

The Kia Soul electric car isn’t just affordable—it’s a smart, stylish way to join the electric revolution. And with its bold design and practical features, it proves that going green doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. So, what are you waiting for? The future of driving is here, and it’s more accessible than ever.

Kia Soul Electric Car Price Comparison Table (2024 Models)

Model	MSRP (Before Tax Credit)	MSRP (After $7,500 Tax Credit)	Range (EPA)	Key Features
Kia Soul EV (Base)	$41,450	$33,950	253 miles	10.25″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Kia Drive Wise safety suite
Kia Soul EV Premium	$45,450	$37,950	253 miles	Sunroof, heated seats, wireless charging, premium audio
Kia Soul EV First Edition	$49,450	$41,950	253 miles	Exclusive badging, ventilated seats, 360-degree camera
Hyundai Kona Electric	$42,550	$34,050	258 miles	Similar tech, slightly more range, less cargo space
Nissan Leaf S	$35,640	$28,140	149 miles	Lower price, shorter range, older tech

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting price of the Kia Soul Electric car?

The Kia Soul Electric car price starts at around $34,000 (USD) for the base trim, making it one of the more affordable electric vehicles in its class. This price may vary slightly depending on your location and available incentives.

Does the Kia Soul Electric car price include federal or state EV incentives?

The listed Kia Soul Electric car price is typically before tax credits or rebates. Buyers may qualify for federal tax incentives up to $7,500, as well as additional state or local EV rebates, which can significantly reduce the final cost.

How does the Kia Soul EV price compare to other small electric SUVs?

The Kia Soul Electric car price is competitive when compared to rivals like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. It offers a lower entry price while maintaining a spacious interior and strong tech features, making it a great value pick.

Are there different trims available for the Kia Soul EV, and how do they affect the price?

Yes, the Kia Soul EV comes in multiple trims, including the EX and GT-Line, with higher trims offering features like premium audio and advanced safety tech. These upgrades can increase the price up to $40,000, depending on options and packages selected.

Is the Kia Soul Electric car price worth it for the range and features?

With an EPA-estimated range of around 243 miles and a well-equipped interior, the Kia Soul Electric car price delivers solid value. It’s a practical, fun-to-drive EV ideal for city commutes and weekend trips alike.

Can I lease the Kia Soul EV, and how does that affect monthly payments?

Yes, Kia often offers leasing options for the Soul EV, with monthly payments typically lower than financing. Leasing can be a smart way to enjoy the Kia Soul Electric car price advantage while benefiting from warranty coverage and minimal maintenance costs.