Let’s talk about the Soul! No, this is not a sermon on how to better your life, we’re referring here to the new iteration of Kia’s highly popular urbanite. The 2012 Soul remains at the top of its class with the lowest starting price in its competitive set at $13,900 MSRP while the automatic-transmission equipped Soul starts at $15,700. Moving up to Soul+ (plus) the starting price is $16,300 with the Soul+ A/T beginning at $17,300. The top-of-the-line Soul – the Exclaim, begins at $19,600 while offering refined, modern amenities like exclusive projector headlamps with front LED accents and LED taillights.
Kia’s UVO, powered by Microsoft, voice-activated infotainment system with a 4.3-inch color touchscreen, rear camera display, and an all-new 350-watt 7-speaker Infinity audio system, and 18-inch alloy wheels are additional highlights. Power and fuel economy have been increased thanks to a new six-speed transmission that aids in delivering up to 35 mpg on the highway. A new 1.6-liter GDI engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission produces 138 horsepower (a 13% increase over the previous engine) and 123 pound-feet of torque. For those looking for a boost in power, a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available with either the six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. In short, the 2012 Soul remains soulful like a classic J.B. track! (James Brown for the musically challenged.)
