Segment:
Subcompact Crossover SUV (Electric Vehicle Variant)
Target Audience:
Environmentally conscious consumers, urban commuters, value-oriented buyers
Key Competitors:
Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt EV (later models), Ford Focus Electric
Unique Selling Proposition:
Distinctive boxy styling, practical interior space, affordable entry-level EV pricing
Powertrain Type:
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Bodystyle:
5-door Crossover SUV
Powertrain:
Electric Motor, Power Electronics, Battery System, Charging System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (including Regenerative Braking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
High-Voltage System, Low-Voltage System, Body Control Modules (BCM), Infotainment System, Lighting Systems, Driver Assistance Systems
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Doors, Glass, Seats
Routine Maintenance:
Brake fluid replacement, coolant checks, cabin air filter replacement, tire rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) analysis, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, electrical connector repair, motor and battery system service (where applicable and safe)
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic scan tool procedures, sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit tracing
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Comprehensive list of DTCs with descriptions, causes, and diagnostic steps
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematic diagrams for all major systems
Component Removal Installation:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications and special tool requirements
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for component disassembly, inspection, and reassembly (e.g., electric motor components if applicable)
Electric Motor Type:
Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)
Electric Motor Power Hp:
109 hp @ 3000-10000 rpm
Electric Motor Power Kw:
81 kW @ 3000-10000 rpm
Electric Motor Torque Lb-Ft:
210 lb-ft @ 0-1900 rpm
Electric Motor Torque Nm:
285 Nm @ 0-1900 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 Mph:
Approx. 11.5 seconds
Battery Type:
Lithium-ion Polymer
Battery Capacity Kwh:
28 kWh
Estimated Range Miles Epa:
93 miles
Charging Time Level 2:
Approx. 4.5 hours (for 80% charge)
Charging Port Type:
J1772 (Type 1)
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
4/5 Stars (for the gasoline Soul, EV specific may vary)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for certain configurations and years, check specific testing)
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Standard
Antilock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Traction Control System TCS:
Standard
Brake Assist Ba:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, Side, Curtain Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Infotainment System Name:
UVO (Kia's proprietary system)
Touchscreen Size:
8-inch touchscreen (optional/higher trims)
Smartphone Integration:
Bluetooth, USB connectivity (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto not standard for 2016)
Available Features:
Rearview camera, parking sensors, optional navigation
Telematics System:
Kia UVO eServices (remote monitoring, diagnostics)
Battery Coolant Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 60,000 - 120,000 miles or 4-6 years for electric vehicle coolant
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or 1-2 years
Brake Fluid:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by maintenance minder
Battery Coolant:
Kia specific EV coolant (e.g., GLESOL Q8210)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (confirm in manual)
Gearbox Fluid:
N/A (sealed unit)
Battery Degradation:
Typical for early EVs, though Kia's battery management is generally robust. Check warranty coverage.
Charging Port Issues:
Infrequent reports of minor connection issues or charging interruptions.
HVAC System:
Some minor complaints about compressor noise or performance in extreme temperatures.
Kia Automotive Group:
Hyundai Motor Group
First Generation Soul Introduction:
2008 (for the gasoline model)
First Generation Soul Ev Introduction:
2014 (global launch)
2016 Model Year Update:
First facelift for the first-generation Soul, including EV variant updates
Manufacturing Plant:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea (Soარი Factory)
Kbb Best Ev For Families:
Kia Soul EV recognized by Kelley Blue Book for value and practicality in the EV segment.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by year and specific components; early EVs can have more variability. Manual is key for understanding specific system reliability.
