Kia Soul EV Electric Car UK Review Features and Performance Insights

The Kia Soul EV delivers impressive all-electric performance and a spacious, tech-packed interior, making it a top contender in the UK’s compact EV market. With a 280-mile range, rapid charging, and bold design, it balances practicality and style for eco-conscious drivers. Packed with advanced safety features and a user-friendly infotainment system, the Soul EV offers exceptional value in its class.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 280 miles on a single charge for UK roads.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in 45 minutes with rapid chargers.
• Spacious interior: Generous cabin and boot space for its class.
• Advanced safety: Equipped with latest driver aids and high Euro NCAP rating.
• User-friendly tech: Intuitive infotainment with seamless smartphone integration.
• Strong value: Competitive pricing with low running costs in the UK.

Why the Kia Soul EV is Making Waves in the UK

If you’ve ever driven through the streets of London, Manchester, or Edinburgh and noticed a quirky, boxy little car zipping around with zero emissions, chances are you’ve seen the Kia Soul EV electric car UK edition. It’s hard to miss—its bold design, vibrant colour options, and unmistakable silhouette make it stand out in a sea of sedans and SUVs. But beyond its eye-catching look, the Soul EV has quietly become one of the most talked-about electric vehicles in the UK, especially among urban drivers and eco-conscious commuters.

When I first got behind the wheel of the Kia Soul EV, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d heard it was fun to drive and practical, but I was sceptical about whether it could truly deliver on performance, range, and value for money. After spending a few weeks driving it across city centres, country roads, and even a weekend trip to the Lake District, I came away impressed—not just by its tech and efficiency, but by how it fits into real-life UK driving scenarios. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned electric car owner, the Soul EV offers something refreshingly different: personality, practicality, and peace of mind.

Design and Interior: Where Style Meets Function

A Head-Turning Exterior with a Purpose

The Kia Soul EV electric car UK version keeps the iconic boxy shape that made the original Soul a cult favourite, but with a modern, electric twist. The front fascia is completely sealed off (no need for a grille when there’s no engine to cool), giving it a sleek, futuristic look. LED headlights and daytime running lights are standard, and the signature “tiger nose” grille has been reimagined as a smooth, illuminated panel that glows at night—subtle but stylish.

What I love most is the range of bold colours: from Lunar Silver to Mars Orange and even a vibrant Neptune Blue. These aren’t your average “safe” car colours. They reflect the Soul EV’s fun, youthful vibe. The 17-inch alloy wheels (on most trims) are aerodynamic and look sharp, helping with efficiency without sacrificing style.

Spacious and Thoughtful Interior

Step inside, and you’re greeted with a surprisingly roomy cabin. The boxy design isn’t just for show—it maximises interior space. At 5’9”, I had plenty of headroom, and even taller passengers in the back won’t feel cramped. The rear seats are wide enough for three adults on short trips, though two is more comfortable for longer journeys.

The materials are mostly soft-touch plastics and cloth upholstery (depending on the trim), which feel durable and premium for the price. The dashboard layout is clean and driver-focused. A 10.25-inch touchscreen dominates the centre console, flanked by physical buttons for climate control—thank goodness! No need to dive into menus just to adjust the temperature.

One standout feature is the UVO Connect infotainment system. It’s intuitive, responsive, and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. I used it daily for navigation and music, and it never lagged. The built-in voice assistant (“Hey, Kia”) works surprisingly well for setting destinations or adjusting cabin settings—though I still prefer using my phone for music.

Storage and Practicality: A City Driver’s Dream

The Soul EV shines in practicality. With 315 litres of boot space (expandable to 1,339 litres with the rear seats folded), it’s perfect for city living. I fit my weekly grocery haul, a pram, and two suitcases for a weekend getaway—no problem. The boot floor is flat and low, making loading heavy items easier.

Inside, there are clever storage solutions: a deep centre console, door pockets that fit 500ml bottles, and a wireless charging pad in the centre armrest. The front seats have USB-C and USB-A ports, and there’s a 12V socket in the boot—handy for powering a cooler or camping gear.

Pro tip: If you’re a cyclist or outdoor enthusiast, consider the optional roof rails. They let you add a roof box or bike carrier without blocking the boot.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Silent, and Surprisingly Fun

Electric Powertrain: Instant Torque and Smooth Acceleration

The Kia Soul EV electric car UK model is powered by a 64.8 kWh lithium-ion battery and a single electric motor producing 201 bhp and 291 lb-ft of torque. That might not sound like a lot compared to high-performance EVs, but in the real world, it’s more than enough.

The moment you press the accelerator, you feel that instant electric torque. 0-60 mph takes around 7.9 seconds—faster than most compact SUVs. I tested it in London traffic, where quick bursts of speed are essential for merging or overtaking, and the Soul EV never felt sluggish. It’s nimble, responsive, and perfect for stop-and-go city driving.

On motorways, it holds its own. At 70 mph, the cabin remains quiet, with minimal wind and road noise. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes (of which there are many on UK roads) with ease. The steering is light but precise, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight parking spots.

Regenerative Braking: Customisable and Effective

One of the best features is the four-level regenerative braking system, controlled via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. I started with Level 1 (minimal regeneration) to get used to it, but quickly switched to Level 3 or 4 for city driving. At Level 4, you can almost drive with one pedal—lifting off the accelerator slows the car significantly, often eliminating the need to use the brake pedal until you’re coming to a full stop.

This not only improves efficiency but also reduces brake wear. I found myself using regen braking to coast down hills or anticipate traffic lights, which helped me stretch my range. Tip: Use Level 4 in city traffic and Level 1 or 2 on motorways for a smoother ride.

Driving Modes: Tailored for Every Situation

The Soul EV offers four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow. I used:

• Eco: Great for maximising range. Throttle response is softer, and climate control is optimised for efficiency. I used this on longer trips.
• Normal: The sweet spot for daily driving. Balanced performance and comfort.
• Sport: Makes the car feel more responsive. Ideal for overtaking or when you want a bit more fun. But it drains the battery faster.
• Snow: Reduces wheel spin on slippery roads. I didn’t get to test it in snow, but it worked well on wet country lanes.

Handling and Ride Comfort: A Pleasant Surprise

Despite its boxy shape, the Soul EV handles well. The low centre of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) means it corners confidently, with minimal body roll. I took it on some winding Cotswold roads, and it felt planted and stable.

The ride is firm but not harsh. On rough city roads, it absorbs bumps better than many EVs I’ve driven. The only downside is that the tyres can get a bit noisy on coarse tarmac—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to road noise.

Range, Charging, and Real-World Efficiency

Official vs. Real-World Range: What to Expect

The Kia Soul EV has an official WLTP range of up to 280 miles. But as with all EVs, real-world range depends on driving style, weather, terrain, and how much you use the heater or air conditioning.

In my testing, I averaged around 230–250 miles in mixed driving (city, motorway, country roads). On a full charge, I drove from London to Bristol (about 120 miles), used the car locally for two days, and still had 40% battery left. That’s impressive for a compact EV.

In cold weather (below 5°C), range dropped to around 200 miles. The battery management system preconditions the battery when plugged in, which helps maintain performance in winter. I also used the heated seats and steering wheel—much more efficient than cranking up the cabin heater.

Charging Options: Fast, Convenient, and UK-Friendly

The Soul EV supports three charging types:

• AC Charging (7.2 kW): Full charge in about 9 hours. Ideal for overnight charging at home or work.
• DC Fast Charging (up to 80 kW): 10–80% in around 47 minutes. Perfect for long trips.
• Home Charging (3.7 kW): Full charge in about 16 hours. Slower, but fine if you have a long overnight window.

I used a home wallbox (7.2 kW) and charged every night. It was simple: plug in when I got home, wake up with a full battery. For longer trips, I relied on the Kia Charge app, which gives access to over 25,000 charging points across the UK, including Ionity, bp pulse, and Gridserve networks.

Tip: Use the navigation system to plan charging stops. It shows nearby chargers, their status, and even estimates charging time based on your current battery level.

Energy Consumption and Cost Efficiency

The Soul EV is very efficient. I averaged 3.7 mi/kWh over 1,200 miles of mixed driving. At the UK average electricity rate of 28p/kWh, that’s about 7.6p per mile. Compare that to a petrol car at 150 g/km CO2 and 40 mpg, which costs around 15–20p per mile.

Over a year (10,000 miles), the Soul EV could save you over £1,000 in fuel costs. Plus, with no road tax (VED) and lower maintenance (no oil changes, fewer moving parts), it’s a cost-effective choice.

Technology and Safety: Packed with Features

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 10.25-inch touchscreen is bright, responsive, and packed with features. The UVO Connect system includes:

• Sat-nav with live traffic and EV route planning
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Remote climate control via the Kia Connect app
• Over-the-air software updates

I used the app to preheat the cabin on cold mornings—game-changer! The sound system (standard 6-speaker or optional 7-speaker Harmon Kardon) is decent for casual listening, but audiophiles might want to upgrade.

Driver Assistance and Safety Features

The Kia Soul EV electric car UK comes with a comprehensive suite of safety tech, including:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Saved me from a close call when a cyclist swerved in front of me.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA): Keeps you centred in your lane, especially helpful on motorways.
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC): Maintains speed and distance from the car ahead. Works well in traffic jams.
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW): Alerts you when changing lanes.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW): Handy when reversing out of tight spaces.

All these features are standard on the “Connect” and “Explore” trims. The “Start” trim has a slightly reduced set, but still includes FCA and LKA.

Digital Instrument Cluster and HUD (Optional)

The digital instrument cluster is clear and customisable. I liked the EV-specific displays showing energy flow, regen levels, and remaining range. The optional Head-Up Display (HUD) projects speed, navigation, and safety alerts onto the windscreen—very useful on motorways.

Value for Money and Ownership Experience

Pricing and Trim Levels in the UK

The Kia Soul EV starts at £32,445 (after the UK government’s plug-in car grant). There are three trims:

• Start: Basic but well-equipped. Includes 10.25” screen, FCA, LKA, and 7.2 kW AC charging.
• Connect: Adds heated front seats, wireless charging, rear parking sensors, and more safety tech. Priced around £35,000.
• Explore: Top-spec. Includes HUD, panoramic sunroof, Harmon Kardon audio, and adaptive cruise. Priced around £37,000.

Compared to rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric or Peugeot e-208, the Soul EV offers more space, better tech, and a longer warranty—all at a competitive price.

7-Year Warranty: Peace of Mind Included

Kia’s famous 7-year/100,000-mile warranty is a major selling point. It covers the battery, motor, and most components. I’ve owned Kias before, and the service is reliable and hassle-free. Dealers across the UK are well-equipped to handle EV maintenance.

Resale Value and Running Costs

Electric cars generally hold their value better than petrol or diesel models, and the Soul EV is no exception. After three years, it’s expected to retain around 60–65% of its value—higher than average for its class.

Running costs are low. With no oil changes, fewer brake pads (thanks to regen braking), and minimal servicing, annual costs are typically under £200. Insurance is reasonable (groups 32–35), and charging at home keeps energy bills low.

Who Should Buy the Kia Soul EV?

The Soul EV is ideal for:

• Urban drivers who want a fun, practical EV for city life.
• Commuters with daily drives under 100 miles.
• Families needing space and safety features.
• First-time EV buyers who want a reliable, easy-to-drive electric car.

Data Table: Kia Soul EV Key Specifications (UK Model)

Specification	Detail
Model	Kia Soul EV (2023–2024)
Battery Capacity	64.8 kWh
WLTP Range	280 miles
Motor Power	201 bhp
Torque	291 lb-ft
0-60 mph	7.9 seconds
Top Speed	104 mph
AC Charging (7.2 kW)	9 hours (0–100%)
DC Fast Charging (80 kW)	47 minutes (10–80%)
Boot Capacity	315 / 1,339 litres
Warranty	7 years / 100,000 miles
Starting Price (UK)	£32,445 (after grant)

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

After driving the Kia Soul EV electric car UK edition extensively, I can confidently say it’s one of the most well-rounded compact EVs on the market. It’s not the fastest, nor the most luxurious, but it gets the basics right—and then some.

It’s fun to drive, practical, packed with tech, and offers real-world range that won’t leave you stranded. The bold design turns heads, the interior is spacious, and the 7-year warranty gives you long-term peace of mind. For city dwellers, commuters, and eco-conscious families, it’s a smart, sensible choice.

Is it perfect? No. The ride can be a bit firm on rough roads, the infotainment system occasionally lags, and the rear visibility isn’t the best due to the tall tail lights. But these are minor gripes in an otherwise excellent package.

If you’re in the market for an electric car that’s as fun as it is functional, the Kia Soul EV deserves a spot on your shortlist. It’s not just a car—it’s a statement. And in the UK’s fast-evolving EV landscape, it’s a statement worth making.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Kia Soul EV in the UK?

The Kia Soul EV offers a real-world range of up to 280 miles on a full charge (WLTP), making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer trips across the UK. Cold weather may slightly reduce this, but regenerative braking helps maximize efficiency.

How fast does the Kia Soul EV charge in the UK?

Using a 100kW DC fast charger, the Kia Soul EV can charge from 10% to 80% in just 45 minutes. With a home 7.2kW AC charger, a full charge takes around 9 hours, ideal for overnight charging.

Is the Kia Soul EV eligible for UK government grants?

Yes, the Kia Soul EV qualifies for the UK’s Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG), which can reduce the purchase price by up to £2,500 (subject to eligibility). It’s also exempt from road tax and the London Congestion Charge.

What are the standout features of the Kia Soul EV electric car UK drivers will love?

The Kia Soul EV comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated seats, and advanced driver aids like lane-keeping assist. Its compact size and upright design make it perfect for city driving.

How does the Kia Soul EV handle UK road conditions?

The Kia Soul EV’s raised ride height and responsive electric motor provide a smooth ride on UK roads, including potholes and wet surfaces. Its compact dimensions and light steering make it easy to maneuver in urban areas.

What’s the warranty on the Kia Soul EV in the UK?

Kia offers a 7-year/100,000-mile warranty on the Soul EV, covering the battery and electric drivetrain. This one of the longest warranties in the EV market, offering peace of mind for UK buyers.