DESIRABLE: New Kia Soul urban crossover
Kia’s all-new Soul urban crossover will go on sale in the UK next year, it has been announced.
Inspired by the 2012 Kia Track’ster concept, the vehicle ‘introduces a thoroughly fresh, more grown-up appearance without losing its individualistic edge’.
It will feature an all-new platform, stiffer bodyshell and upgraded suspension, improved driving dynamics and ride comfort, and a significantly quieter and higher-quality cabin.
Buyers will be able to choose between Kia’s 1.6litre GDi gasoline and CRDi diesel engines, as well as six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions.
The Soul will also be slightly larger inside and out, including a cargo area which enjoys a 4% increase in capacity with a boost to 354litres.
Benny Oeyen, Vice President of Marketing and Product Planning at Kia Motors Europe, said: “The Soul has attracted a loyal following among Kia buyers, so it was important that the all-new model remained true to the original iconic design.
“Beyond design, our main focus was infusing it with improved driving dynamics, developing a higher-quality cabin and adding desirable features that improve the Soul’s appeal, value and sophistication.
“Keeping what made the current Soul special while addressing areas for improvement presented Kia’s American design studio in California and engineers in Korea with a tough challenge.
“Many of the Track’ster’s dramatic design elements – first seen in 2012 – can now be found in the new Soul.
“Kia has maintained the iconic design while adding modern styling cues to make the 2014 Soul even more desirable.”
The new Soul will be available with a choice between single and two-tone interiors, with black, brown and grey leather and fabrics available.
Blue, red and orange high-gloss interior highlights are also up for grabs with a new range of interior packages.
New premium features include: xenon headlights; keyless entry; climate control; cruise control; leather seat trim; ventilated front seats; heated front and rear seats; panoramic glass sunroof; and heated exterior mirrors.
Meanwhile, safety features will include High Beam Assist, Parallel Parking Assist System and a Lane Departure Warning System.
Buyers will be able to choose from 11 exterior paint finishes, three different roof colours and eight alloy wheel designs.
Full pricing and specification will be announced in due course.
