2023 Kia Soul Review: Comprehensive Features, Trims, and Pricing Guide

The 2023 Kia Soul stands out as a versatile, stylish, and affordable subcompact crossover SUV. Featuring four well-equipped trims, efficient engine options, and modern safety and infotainment technologies, it appeals to city drivers and small families alike. With competitive pricing starting at under $20,000, the Soul offers great value, comfort, and reliability, making it a top choice in its segment. This comprehensive overview provides detailed insights into its features, performance, and pricing, helping you make a well-informed purchase decision.

2023 Kia Soul: An In-Depth Look at Features, Trims, and Pricing

The 2023 Kia Soul continues to be a standout choice in the subcompact crossover SUV segment, renowned for its distinctive boxy design, strong performance, and versatile interior. Over the years, the Soul has built a reputation for offering excellent value, combining practicality with a sporty and modern aesthetic. With a range of trims and features tailored to different lifestyles and budgets, this model remains an attractive option for city dwellers, commuting professionals, and small families alike. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the key features, available trims, performance specs, safety technologies, infotainment options, and pricing details of the 2023 Kia Soul, helping you make an informed purchase decision.

About Kia Motor Corporation

Kia is a leading South Korean automobile manufacturer, part of the Hyundai Motor Group, and has secured its position as a major player in the global automotive industry. By 2019, Kia had become South Korea's second-largest automaker, surpassing 2.8 million vehicles sold worldwide. Known for innovative design, affordability, and reliability, Kia has steadily expanded its lineup to include a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs and electric models. The Kia Soul epitomizes the company's commitment to bold design and user-focused features, making it a popular choice among urban drivers and crossover enthusiasts.

Highlights of the 2023 Kia Soul

Engine Options and Driving Performance The 2023 Kia Soul is equipped with a reliable 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating approximately 147 horsepower. It pairs with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive, delivering a smooth, efficient, and comfortable driving experience. While the Soul isn't built for high-speed sportiness, it provides adequate power for urban commuting and highway trips. Its unique design and upright stance not only improve cabin space but also give it a distinctive street presence. The vehicle’s handling is stable, and its ride quality is optimized for city streets and daily driving.

Interior Design and Comfort The interior of the 2023 Kia Soul is spacious and versatile, featuring an upright silhouette that maximizes headroom and cargo capacity. The cabin's design focuses on practicality and modern aesthetics, with textured door panels that add visual interest. For personalization, buyers can opt for dual-tone paint options, interior color schemes, and other accents. The seats are designed for comfort, with options including heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, especially in higher trims. Additional comfort and convenience features include ambient interior lighting, wireless phone charging pads, a head-up display, push-button start, and keyless entry — all aimed at enhancing the driving experience and simplifying daily tasks.

Comprehensive Safety Features The base LX trim provides essential driver assistance, including features like electronic stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. Moving up in trims, additional safety technologies become available, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot detection, and automatic high beams. These advanced safety systems contribute to high safety ratings from agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, the Kia Soul prioritizes safety without compromising on style and functionality.

Infotainment and Connectivity Technologies The infotainment system of the 2023 Kia Soul offers an impressive range of features. Most trims come equipped with a large 10.3-inch touchscreen display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The entry-level LX model features an 8.0-inch display but still offers connectivity options. Higher trims include SiriusXM satellite radio, real-time traffic updates, in-dash navigation system, and wireless charging capability, making every journey more connected and entertaining. The Kia Soul also includes a solid six-speaker audio system on most models, delivering quality sound for all occupants.

Available Trims and Their Key Features The 2023 Kia Soul is available in four distinct trims, each tailored to different preferences and budgets:

Soul LX: The base model provides essential features such as USB ports, remote keyless entry, cloth seats, a temporary spare tire, and 16-inch steel wheels. It is designed for affordability and simplicity, ideal for city commuters.

Soul S: This trim offers additional comfort and convenience with 16-inch alloy wheels, a power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless charging pad, and extra USB ports for added connectivity.

Soul GT-Line: Catering to sportier tastes, the GT-Line showcases 18-inch alloy wheels, a D-shaped steering wheel for a sporty feel, and distinctive bumpers that give it a dynamic appearance.

Soul EX: The top-tier trim adds luxury touches like 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, a sunroof, heated front seats, and plush upholstery materials that enhance comfort for all passengers.

Pricing Overview The starting prices of the 2023 Kia Soul are highly competitive within the segment. The LX trim begins at approximately $19,790, offering tremendous value for the features included. The S trim is priced around $22,290, while the sporty GT-Line starts at roughly $23,390. The premium EX trim is available for about $24,090. These prices are generally lower than many competitors, making the Soul an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish, reliable crossover. It's important to note that optional features and packages can affect the final price, and higher trims typically include more advanced safety and technology options.

Overall, the 2023 Kia Soul strikes a compelling balance between affordability, style, safety, and technology. It continues to appeal to urban drivers who need a versatile and dependable vehicle with a distinctive personality. Whether you're seeking an economical city car, a stylish daily driver, or a family-ready crossover, the Kia Soul offers options across a broad spectrum to meet your needs.