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The new generation of the subcompact crossover is bringing the new style and features. As expected, the carmaker delivers electric and conventional drivetrains. For the 2021 Kia Soul, we won’t see cosmetic changes, but the company needs to refresh the lineup. There comes the PHEV edition, but the details about this model are still not available.
You will six trim levels for the configurations with petrol engines. The new generation is introducing the electric version in 2021 and then we will find out which packages this model is going to offer. Also, the carmaker mentioned a higher level of autonomous drive. Well, this segment is evolving fast, and more manufacturers are working on Level 4 of the self-driving system.
2021 Kia Soul Trim Levels
One of the strengths of the new 2021 Kia Soul will be its options. The carmaker revisited packages and provided new features. The base version is the LX and it comes with a modest list of features. Still, we find a few cool accessories, such as 16-inch wheels, 4-way power seats, and a seven-inch touchscreen display.
The S trim adds blind-spot collision warning, power-adjustable rearview mirrors, cruise control, and several drive modes. The safety gets a boost with lane keep and assist alerts. The GT Line brings some juice to the lineup at the same price as the S model. Highlights are 18-inch wheels, which you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, the cargo area comes with a 12V power outlet, leather steering wheels, USB ports. Fog lights are also added, as well as some other special details for the GT Line package.
The 2021 Kia Soul X-Line comes with an exclusive package that includes 18-inch wheels, exterior body kit, and roof rails. For $21,500, you will also get blind-spot monitor, lane change assist, sun visors, and special cloth seats. The EX is top of the line trim and it offers the longest list of accessories. Buyers of this model are getting a 10-way power-adjustable seat, 17-inch wheels, automatic climate control, forward collision-avoidance assist, and premium cloth upholstery. The infotainment system features a 10-inch touchscreen with navigation and SiriusXM radio. A wireless device charger is also there.
Specs (Petrol Engines)
The conventional lineup for the 2021 Kia Soul includes two petrol engines. The standard offer includes a 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. A CVT forwards power to front wheels. The crossover is fuel-friendly and the return is among class-leading with 32 mpg on the EX trim. If you pick a manual transmission, the mileage drops by 4 miles per gallon.
Both GT Line models are using a turbocharged engine. It is a 1.6-liter unit with 200 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of twist. The carmaker pairs it with a seven-speed automatic transmission and the fuel economy is still above 30 mpg. The start/stop system is not as annoying as we could expect. Still, you can deactivate this feature.
2021 Kia Soul EV and Hybrid
Next season, the new crossover will complete its lineup. The 2021 Kia Soul EV is already announced and we know some details about it. However, the portfolio is going to include a new hybrid system and a possible PHEV option. But, these are just rumors for now, and before it happens, the all-electric vehicle will be on the streets.
The range of the Soul EV is 243 miles. The system is everything but weak. The output of the system based on the 64-kWh battery is capable of producing 200 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, which is not bad for the subcompact model. The highlight of the recharge system is a super-fast DC Charging method, which needs only 90 minutes to refill the battery. In case you do it with Level 2, the process needs 9.5 hours. The standard home outlet is slowest. You will have to wait more than two days to get 100 percent again.
2021 Kia Soul Prices, Competition
The base model of the 2021 Kia Soul will cost only $17,500, which makes this crossover one of the most affordable units in the class. The S trim makes it cost over $20,000, and GT-Line with a turbo-four engine comes with the same MSRP. The X-Line price is $21,500 and EX will come with a tag of $22,700. The most exclusive version is GT-Line Turbo. You need to pay $27,500 for the top of the line trim level.
It is hard to find the competition for the Soul, especially the EV edition. There are no too many rivals in this segment. But, whoever is keen on electric vehicles will also consider Chevy Bolt, and the best-selling EV ever – Nissan Leaf. What’s more, the crossover range is growing. Jaguar is launching the new I-Pace, but it belongs to the premium class. Kia Niro EV is practically the same model, with the different body styles and some options. Well, the conventional unit will have more rivals, with most leading manufacturers present in the subcompact category.
