Kia has unveiled the updated Soul for the 2023 MY, set to arrive this summer with a slightly redesigned exterior, new colors, and two optional packages. Compared to last year, the Soul loses the option of a turbocharged engine, while the adventurous X-Line trim is also dropped from the range.
Starting with the exterior, the 2023 Soul
is distinguished by the single headlights (optional LEDs) which no longer
feature the split design of its predecessor. The front bumper is redesigned
with slim DRLs, aluminum-style trim and a large central intake featuring a
modern pattern in the pictured GT-Line model. Other changes include new designs
for the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels, a slightly tweaked rear bumper, and
two new duo-tone color options, Clear White and Surf Blue, both combined with a
Fusion Black Roof.
The 2023 Soul is available in LX, S, EX,
GT-Line, and GT-Line Tech trims, meaning that the X-Line and Turbo have been
discontinued. As a result, you can only get the Soul with the naturally
aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 hp and 178 Nm of torque. It is exclusively mated with an Intelligent
Variable Transmission (CVT) sending power to the front wheels. Mind you, the
manual gearbox option was already discontinued from the 2022 MY.
Inside, the 10.25-inch infotainment with
navigation touchscreen comes standard in all trims besides the entry-level LX.
In terms of ADAS, standard systems include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist –
Pedestrian, Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention and Lane
Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and Rear Occupant Alert. Kia is offering
two optional packages, with the LX Technology Package adding Blind Spot
Collision Avoidance and Rear Cross Collision Avoidance alongside a set of
16-inch wheels.
For those who want the best-equipped Soul,
there is the GT-Line Technology Package which takes ADAS to the next level. It
adds Junction Turning capability to the Forward Collision Avoidance Assist
thanks to the combination of radar and camera sensors, plus the more
sophisticated Highway Drive-Assist and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control.
The package also brings LED headlights and tailights, while upgrading the
interior with a high-gloss trim, a premium Harman/Kardon audio system with LED
speaker lights, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, a cargo cover and a
dual-level cargo floor.
Pricing for the 2023 Kia Soul will be
announced closer to the market launch in the coming months.
