2021 Kia Soul Pros vs Cons

The 2021 Kia Soul offers a one-of-a-kind look, with its boxy design and vibrant personality. It may be classified as an SUV, but some would say the low ground clearance and compact cabin resemble that of a hatchback. Despite this unique style, it still provides modern consumers with alluring versatility - plus those signature technological features for which Kia’s are renowned.

What's New for 2021?

Instead of making drastic changes to the Soul, Kia has kept things in the 2021 model year pretty similar to what was seen in 2020. One new feature is Rear Occupant Alert. This system can alert drivers when it seems like passengers have been left in the vehicle by themselves. Another addition to the Soul is seen in the X-Line and GT-Line trims. These trims get more premium shock valves to enhance handling. One other improvement to the 2021 Kia Soul is that select trims now come with remote start buttons on their key fobs.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2021 Kia Soul – The Pros

1. Something for Everyone

Rather than limiting people's options with the Soul, Kia has gone with a decision to make six trims available. This range of models starts at the LX, which is priced under $18,000 and goes all the way up to the Turbo, which costs a little more than $27,500. In between are the S, GT-Line, X-Line, and EX trims. Every trim has its own advantages, and customers get to pick which combination of features is most appealing and which price point matches their budgets.

2. High-Tech Cabin

The Kia Soul provides an intuitive connection with the world, offering drivers a 7-inch touchscreen as standard on its first four trims. For those who crave even more connectivity and convenience, two top trim levels are equipped with 10.25-inch touchscreens featuring HD Radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and built in navigation capabilities that account for current traffic conditions to provide accurate turn by turn directions - making driving simpler than ever before.

3. Two Available Engines

The Kia Soul is an incredibly popular compact SUV, and drivers have the option to choose between two powerful powertrains. For a standard driving experience that's reliable yet efficient, there's a 147 horsepower 2.0-liter engine paired with either manual or automatic transmission options - perfect for city commutes! Prefer some extra oomph? Opt for the Turbo trim and enjoy 201 horsepower of turbocharged performance from its 1.6 liter plus 195 pound feet torque output from its dual clutch 7 speed auto tranny...you'll be flying around town in no time.

4. Good Mileage

The Kia Soul 2021 is an efficient car for long-distance travelers, with its 2.0-liter engine able to offer up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway and 29 in city traffic. For drivers wanting more performance out of their vehicle, a turbocharged version of the Soul offers slightly reduced efficiency - 32/27 (highway/city) mpg - still exceptional rates among similar models. Drivers who opt for manual transmission can expect 25/31mpg figures instead.

5. Quality Safety Components

Nearly all of the Kia Soul trims are equipped with numerous driver-assist technologies. Starting with the S trim, the vehicle comes with forward collision avoidance assist, and this gives the vehicle the ability to warn drivers about potential problems and hit the brakes if it seems like an accident is imminent. Lane keeping assist can be useful when the driver isn't centered in a lane, and blind spot monitoring and lane change assist work together to prevent drivers from hitting vehicles on either side of them. There is also a driver attention alert system and a rear cross-traffic collision assist feature that can potentially hit the brakes to avoid an accident.

6. Cabin Feels Spacious

The Soul dazzles from every angle, with its upright and cubic shape that draws the attention of those in crowded urban areas. Its angular C-pillar is stamped beautifully with a "Soul" badge for a stand out look. On one side you have an exciting mix of curves and angles on the tailgate; while at the front, there's a captivating grille along narrow headlights which appear to be right off some future spacecraft.

7. A Distinct Appearance

The Soul is a modern urbanite's dream car: it stands tall, with its clean cubic shape ideal for those tight city parking spots. Adorned by an angular C-pillar and "Soul" badge, the front has sleek grille and narrow headlights that give off a futuristic vibe. At the back of this stylish vehicle lies an intriguing mix of curves and angles on its tailgate - making sure you'll turn heads no matter which angle you look at the Soul from.

8. "Start Your Engines"

Technology has ushered in a new era of convenience for drivers. Gone are the days when you had to manually insert and turn your key - with the EX and Turbo trims, all you need is one push of a button! No more waiting around for comfort: modern car keys come equipped with remote starters so that from anywhere near your vehicle, it can be fired up along with its climate control system before hopping into an optimal temperature driving experience.

9. Premium Interior Elements

Enjoy the ultimate luxury with Kia Soul trims! Every trim is equipped with a selection of premium interior elements, like an indulgent power moonroof and soothing heated front seats. The cabin atmosphere will be toasty warm thanks to the leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated steering wheel. Synthetic leather seating adds comfort for passenger enjoyment too - all part of experiencing added luxury in every ride.

10. Sporty Accents

The Kia Soul has a personality all its own - make it even more striking with the X-Line package! Its two-tone exterior, 18" alloy wheels, and silver roof rails give an air of sophistication to your commute. If you want more flair still, try out the GT-Line look for unique side sills and dramatic red accents. Finally take control behind one of our signature D shaped ergonomic steering wheel that looks like it's ready to hit race tracks from around the world! Upgrade your ride withe Sporty Accents today!

Reasons You May Not Like the 2021 Kia Soul – The Cons

1. Lackluster Performance

It was mentioned earlier that the Soul has two available engines. It's great that Kia made that decision, but in all honesty, 201 horsepower isn't that impressive. Having closer to 250 horsepower would make for a more thrilling experience on the road.

2. Rear Seats Don't Fold Flat

Having rear seats that fold down is a key reason why SUVs and hatchbacks are so popular. The Kia Soul has those types of seats, and its rear seat is configured as a 60/40 split bench to allow for some versatility in arranging the cabin. The unfortunate thing is that the seatbacks don't fold completely flat. This can make it a bit trickier to load and unload heavy or bulky items. A difference of a few inches is significant in this regard.

3. Not Upscale Enough

The Kia Soul is designed for those looking for an economical ride, but potential buyers should consider its scarcity of luxury amenities. While some modern conveniences are present - such as heated front seats and synthetic leather upholstery- a number of must-haves like ventilated seating, full leather trim and rear air vents may be missing from the picture. Additionally, charging ports in the back seat have not been included with this model.

4. All-Wheel Drive Option is Missing

SUVs are expected to be tough and durable, but the Kia Soul doesn't quite make the grade if this is the standard. Not having available all-wheel drive makes it less appealing to drivers who may frequently deal with icy and slippery conditions.

 

How it Stacks Up to the Competition:

2021 Kia Soul vs 2021 Honda HR-V

Get ready to hit the roads in style with either of these top-of-the line compact crossovers – Kia Soul and Honda HR-V. The former offers an iconic boxy design, ample interior space as well as uncompromised power under its 4 cylindered engine; while the latter flaunts a sleek exterior, optional all wheel drive system that ensures ecofriendly motoring at 28/34 mpgs along with added safety features too! However if you are looking for more bang for your buck then try out the 2021 Soul which comes loaded with premium standard amenities without burning through those hard earned bucks like its rivals from Honda motors.

2021 Kia Soul vs 2021 Subaru Crosstrek

For drivers looking for the perfect combination of style and practicality, both the 2021 Kia Soul and Subaru Crosstrek offer something special. The boxy design of the Kia provides a spacious interior with generous headroom and legroom. Not to mention its base engine produces 147 horsepower while delivering an impressive fuel economy of 25/31 mpg -not bad considering all those standard amenities! On top of that, it has one of most accessible starting MSRPs on market – ideal for budget-conscious shoppers. However if you need more power or value off-road capabilities then check out what Subarau’s 152-Horsepower AWD drivetrain can do in their ruggedly designed Crosstrek model; It takes innovation outdoors like never before.

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Kia Soul has it all: a bold and distinct style that catches eyes, interior space for every passenger to stretch out in comfort, cutting-edge tech elements like lane keeping assist and forward collision avoidance for maximum safety on the road, plus two efficient engine choices. On top of this impressive package is even more convenience with select trim levels featuring Smart Key technology paired with remote start buttons - an ideal choice for those looking to purchase a dependable car at an affordable price point complete with lasting satisfaction down the line.