Kia Soul 2008–2011 car dimensions: 4105 mm long, 1785 mm wide and 1610 mm high. Braked towing is 1,300 kg.
The cabin seats five adults comfortably with high hip points, generous head and leg room, and up to 14 storage areas. Air conditioning, power windows, tilt steering, remote locking, and a radio/CD player with USB and AUX ports are standard. Higher grades add leather-wrapped controls, upgraded audio with subwoofer, and optional reversing sensors or a camera that displays in the rear-view mirror. No advanced driver aids like automatic braking appear.
Boot space measures 340 litres with seats up. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats expand it to 818 litres for larger loads like bikes, with an almost flat floor and underfloor storage on some models.
Towing capacity reaches 1300 kg braked or 450 kg unbraked depending on engine and transmission. Payload sits around 500 kg based on typical kerb and gross weights.
The high roof and boxy shape suit light work or urban hauling, with sport suspension available on select grades. No heavy-duty cooling is noted.
The cabin seats five adults with strong headroom, shoulder room and legroom thanks to the tall roof and long wheelbase. Air conditioning is standard across the range. Most trims use cloth seats with a height-adjustable driver’s seat. higher grades add leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift. A power sunroof is available on select grades. Split-folding rear seats expand cargo space. The interior feels roomy and practical with multiple storage spots.
Euro NCAP five-star rating
Six airbags standard including full-length curtains
ABS with EBD, ESC and traction control standard
Active front head restraints and ISOFIX anchors standard
Fuel economy up to 61 mpg on 1.6 diesel
Service intervals typically 15,000 km or 12 months
Fuel use varies by engine. The 1.6 petrol returns around 26 city and 31 highway mpg in US figures. The 1.6 diesel reaches up to 61 mpg in UK testing with strong efficiency ratings. Automatic versions use a bit more fuel than manuals.
Routine servicing follows a schedule of oil and filter changes every 15,000 km or once a year under normal conditions. Other items such as air filters and fluids follow longer intervals. The car carries a strong warranty in many markets.
Safety kit is comprehensive for the class. Six airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with brake force distribution, brake assist and active headrests come standard. It earned a full five stars from Euro NCAP with solid adult and child scores. Front and rear crumple zones plus side beams add structure.
Living with the Soul is straightforward. The high seating position aids entry and exit. Split rear seats and a useful boot make it flexible for daily use. Standard air conditioning, power windows and remote locking keep basics covered. Higher trims add heated front seats and a sunroof for extra comfort.
Length 4105 mm, Width 1785 mm, Height 1610 mm, Wheelbase 2550 mm (Soul 2008–2011)
Sources: manufacturer data, 2009 Kia Soul UK brochure, 2010-2011 Kia owner's manuals and US press kits.