What Car Kia Soul Electric Offers in 2024

Remember the first time you saw a Kia Soul? That quirky, boxy silhouette with a personality all its own—it stood out in a sea of sedans and SUVs. Fast forward to 2024, and the Kia Soul Electric isn’t just a head-turner; it’s a serious contender in the compact electric vehicle (EV) market. As someone who’s spent time behind the wheel of various EVs, I can tell you the Soul Electric feels like a breath of fresh air. It blends affordability, style, and practicality in a way that makes you wonder: Is this the EV for the everyday driver?

The 2024 Kia Soul Electric enters a crowded field of EVs, from the Tesla Model 3 to the Hyundai Kona Electric. But what sets it apart isn’t just its funky design—it’s the thoughtful balance of features, range, and value. Whether you’re a city dweller with a short commute or a weekend adventurer looking for a reliable EV, the Soul Electric might just surprise you. In this deep dive, we’ll explore its standout features, real-world performance, and how it stacks up against the competition. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this car tick.

Design and Exterior: Where Quirk Meets Function

Head-Turning Aesthetics

The Kia Soul Electric has always been about standing out, and the 2024 model doesn’t disappoint. Its boxy, upright shape isn’t just for looks—it’s a masterclass in maximizing interior space. The front fascia gets a sleek update with a closed-off grille (a nod to its electric nature) and sharp LED headlights that give it a modern, almost futuristic vibe. The signature “tiger-nose” grille is gone, replaced by a smooth panel that houses charging ports and sensors. The rear features full-width taillights, adding a touch of sophistication.

Visual guide about what car kia soul electric

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One of my favorite design touches? The two-tone paint options. Pair a vibrant color (like Solar Yellow) with a contrasting black roof, and you’ve got a car that feels like it’s always in a good mood. It’s the kind of car that makes you smile when you see it in your driveway—no small feat for an EV.

Practicality Meets Personality

Beyond the looks, the Soul Electric’s design is surprisingly practical. The flat roofline and large side windows create a spacious, airy cabin. The rear doors open wide, making it easy to load groceries or kids. Even the cargo area (18.8 cubic feet, expandable to 62.1 with the rear seats folded) is well-thought-out. I once fit a full-sized bicycle (disassembled) and a weekend’s worth of camping gear in the back—no small feat for a compact EV.

Pro tip: Opt for the available roof rails. They’re not just for show; they let you add a roof box or bike rack, turning the Soul into a mini-adventure mobile. The car’s ground clearance (6.7 inches) is higher than most EVs, which helps if you’re driving on rough roads or snowy driveways.

Interior and Tech: A Cabin That Feels Like Home

Comfort and Space

Step inside, and the Soul Electric’s interior feels more upscale than its price tag suggests. The front seats are supportive, with plenty of legroom even for taller drivers. The rear seats? Surprisingly roomy for a car this size. Two adults can sit comfortably, and the flat floor (thanks to the EV platform) means the middle passenger won’t feel like they’re on a throne. The seats are upholstered in a durable fabric, but you can upgrade to synthetic leather if you want a more premium feel.

The cabin materials are a mix of hard and soft plastics, but nothing feels cheap. The dash has a clean, minimalist design with a 10.25-inch touchscreen as the centerpiece. The steering wheel feels good in hand, with controls for audio, cruise, and voice commands.

Tech That Works for You

The Soul Electric’s tech suite is where it really shines. The 10.25-inch touchscreen runs Kia’s latest UVO infotainment system, which is intuitive and responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the wireless version (a $200 option) is a game-changer—no more fumbling with cables. The system also includes a built-in navigation system with real-time traffic updates and charging station locations.

The digital instrument cluster (standard on higher trims) is crisp and customizable. You can switch between different layouts, from a minimalist speedometer to a full map view. The car also supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, so you’ll always have the latest software without visiting a dealership.

One underrated feature? The “Driver Talk” system. If you’re talking to someone in the back seat, the car amplifies your voice through the rear speakers. It’s a small touch, but it makes conversations easier—especially with kids.

Performance and Range: How Far Can You Go?

Under the Hood (or Battery Pack)

The 2024 Kia Soul Electric uses a single electric motor (201 horsepower, 291 lb-ft of torque) powered by a 64 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. That’s the same setup as the 2023 model, but with a few tweaks for better efficiency. The car is front-wheel drive, which keeps costs down but can lead to slight torque steer if you floor it (not a dealbreaker, just something to note).

Acceleration is brisk, with 0-60 mph in about 7.6 seconds. It’s not Tesla-quick, but it’s more than enough for merging onto highways or passing slowpokes. The steering is light and precise, making the Soul a joy to drive in city traffic. The ride is firm but comfortable, with enough suspension travel to handle potholes without jarring your spine.

Real-World Range and Charging

Here’s where things get interesting. The EPA rates the Soul Electric at 250 miles of range, but real-world numbers can vary. In my experience, you’ll get about 220-230 miles in mixed driving (city/highway) with the climate control on. If you’re a hypermiler (driving slowly, coasting, etc.), you might stretch it to 240 miles. Cold weather can drop that to 180-200 miles, so plan accordingly.

Charging is straightforward:

Level 2 (240V): About 9.5 hours to full (great for overnight charging).

DC Fast Charging: 10%-80% in 45 minutes (perfect for road trips).

The car comes with a 7.2 kW onboard charger, which is faster than some competitors (like the Nissan Leaf’s 6.6 kW). Pro tip: Use the Kia app to schedule charging during off-peak hours. It can save you money and reduce strain on the grid.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind Built In

Standard Safety Features

The Soul Electric comes loaded with safety tech. Standard features include:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCAA) with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA).
Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance (BCA) with rear cross-traffic alert.
Driver Attention Warning (DAW).

These systems work well in real-world driving. I’ve had the FCAA kick in a few times when a car suddenly stopped in front of me—no drama, just a smooth stop. The LFA is handy on long drives, keeping the car centered in its lane with minimal steering input.

Advanced Options (Higher Trims)

If you opt for the higher trims (EX or GT-Line), you get:

Highway Driving Assist (HDA): Combines adaptive cruise and lane centering for semi-autonomous driving.

Surround-view camera: Great for parking in tight spots.
Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist: Alerts you (and brakes) if you’re about to hit something while backing up.

The HDA isn’t as advanced as Tesla’s Autopilot, but it’s a solid system for reducing driver fatigue on highways. I used it on a 200-mile road trip and came away impressed with how well it handled curves and traffic.

Value and Competition: How It Stacks Up

Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2024 Kia Soul Electric starts at $36,495 (before incentives) for the base LX trim. The EX trim ($39,495) adds heated seats, a power driver’s seat, and more tech. The GT-Line ($41,995) is the top-tier model, with sporty styling and premium features like a sunroof and 10-way power driver’s seat. All trims are eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit (if you qualify), bringing the effective price down to $28,995-$34,495.

Compared to rivals:

Hyundai Kona Electric: Starts at $34,000, but has less cargo space (19.2 vs. 62.1 cubic feet).
Nissan Leaf Plus: Starts at $37,400, but has a shorter range (212 miles) and slower charging.
Chevy Bolt EV: Starts at $31,000, but the Soul has more tech and a longer warranty.

The Soul’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is a standout. Most competitors offer 8 years/100,000 miles, so Kia’s extra coverage is a big plus.

Who Should Buy It?

The Soul Electric is ideal if you:

Want an affordable EV with decent range.
Need a practical, roomy interior for family or cargo.
Love the quirky design and don’t mind standing out.

It’s less ideal if you:

Need AWD or towing capacity (the Soul is FWD-only).
Drive long distances in winter (cold weather cuts range).
Want ultra-fast charging (it’s good, but not Tesla-level).

For most people, the Soul Electric hits the sweet spot between price, range, and fun.

Ownership Experience: The Little Things That Matter

Charging and Maintenance

One of the best things about owning an EV is the low maintenance. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust system. The Soul Electric requires:

Annual tire rotations.
Brake fluid changes every 2 years.
Cabin air filter replacement every 15,000 miles.

The car’s regenerative braking system reduces brake wear, so pads last longer. Pro tip: Use “B” mode (strong regen) for one-pedal driving in the city. It’s addictive once you get used to it.

Community and Support

Kia has a growing network of EV owners, and the Soul Electric has a loyal following. Online forums and Facebook groups are full of tips for maximizing range, troubleshooting issues, and sharing road trip stories. Kia’s customer service is generally responsive, and the dealerships are getting better at EV-specific service.

One minor gripe: The car’s app (Kia Connect) can be slow to update charging status. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something Kia could improve with a future update.

Data Table: Kia Soul Electric vs. Key Competitors

Feature	Kia Soul Electric	Hyundai Kona Electric	Nissan Leaf Plus	Chevy Bolt EV
Starting Price	$36,495	$34,000	$37,400	$31,000
Range (EPA)	250 miles	258 miles	212 miles	247 miles
DC Fast Charging	10%-80% in 45 min	10%-80% in 47 min	10%-80% in 60 min	10%-80% in 60 min
Warranty	10/100,000	10/100,000	8/100,000	8/100,000
Cargo Space	62.1 cu ft	45.8 cu ft	30.0 cu ft	57.0 cu ft

The Verdict: Is the Kia Soul Electric Worth It?

After spending time with the 2024 Kia Soul Electric, I’m convinced it’s one of the most underrated EVs on the market. It’s not the fastest, the fanciest, or the longest-range car out there—but it’s one of the most complete packages for the price. The quirky design turns heads, the interior is spacious and tech-packed, and the range is just enough for most people’s needs.

The Soul Electric isn’t perfect. The infotainment system can lag, and the ride is a bit firm for some tastes. But for every flaw, there’s a compensating strength: a longer warranty than rivals, faster charging than the Leaf, and more personality than a Tesla. If you’re looking for an EV that’s fun to drive, practical to own, and easy on the wallet, the Kia Soul Electric deserves a spot on your shortlist. It’s proof that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing character.

Frequently Asked Questions

What car Kia Soul Electric offers in terms of range for 2024?

The 2024 Kia Soul Electric delivers an EPA-estimated range of up to 265 miles on a full charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer trips. Its 64 kWh battery ensures reliable performance without frequent recharging.

How fast does the Kia Soul Electric charge?

With DC fast charging, the 2024 Kia Soul Electric can recharge from 10% to 80% in about 45 minutes. Level 2 charging (at home or public stations) takes around 9 hours for a full charge.

What car Kia Soul Electric stands out for in its interior?

The Kia Soul Electric features a spacious, tech-forward cabin with standard 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and available heated/ventilated front seats. Its boxy design maximizes cargo space and passenger comfort.

Is the 2024 Kia Soul Electric eligible for tax credits?

Yes, depending on your location, the 2024 Soul Electric may qualify for federal or state electric vehicle tax incentives. Check current IRS guidelines and local programs for eligibility details.

What safety features come with the Kia Soul Electric?

The 2024 model includes Kia’s full suite of Drive Wise features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. These systems enhance driver confidence on all road types.

How does the Kia Soul Electric compare to gas-powered SUVs?

The Soul Electric offers lower running costs, instant torque for smooth acceleration, and zero tailpipe emissions. While cargo space is slightly reduced due to the battery, it still outperforms many compact SUVs in efficiency and tech offerings.

What Car Kia Soul Electric Offers in 2024

Key Takeaways

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