Best Kia Soul Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2020-2023 Kia Soul 2.0L

The 2020-2023 Soul with the 2.0L Nu engine and CVT ranks first because it combines the strongest reliability record with a far better interior and standard collision-avoidance tech. Its 147-hp engine pairs with a smooth intelligent variable transmission, delivering around 30 mpg combined. The stiffer platform offers tighter body control, and most trims include forward-collision-avoidance assist and lane-keeping assist. This generation has the lowest variance in ownership experience of any Soul era.

This pick is for buyers who prioritize peace of mind over driving character and are willing to pay the newest-car premium. The CVT is efficient but uninterested in being entertaining, and some drivers dislike its drone under load. Compared to the 2017-2019 2.0L below, it trades a conventional six-speed automatic and lower price for standard driver-assistance tech and nicer materials. It is the best overall choice for most commuters.

2. 2017-2019 Kia Soul 2.0L

The 2017-2019 Soul with the 2.0L Nu engine ranks second as the best value, offering a conventional six-speed automatic that avoids CVT and dual-clutch quirks. Its 161-hp engine provides strong acceleration, and the 2017 refresh sharpened styling and expanded available driver-assist options. The Plus trim adds a larger touchscreen, alloy wheels, and a more comfortable ride at a price well below comparable small crossovers.

This pick is ideal for first-car buyers, commuter beaters, or second household vehicles where total cost of ownership matters most. It trades the SK3's standard driver-assistance suite and nicer interior materials for a significantly lower price and a torque-converter transmission with no dual-clutch hesitation. Compared to the 2020-2023 model above, it lacks the newest safety tech but offers simpler, cheaper long-term maintenance. It is the smartest financial answer for many shoppers.

3. 2020-2023 Kia Soul GT-Line Turbo

The 2020-2023 GT-Line Turbo ranks third because its 1.6L turbocharged engine produces 201 hp through a seven-speed dual-clutch, transforming the car's character with real mid-range shove. It keeps the SK3's improved interior and packaging while adding firmer suspension and bigger wheels for a sportier feel. This is the most fun Soul, with acceleration that makes highway merging effortless.

This pick is for enthusiasts who want pace and are willing to accept stricter maintenance requirements and lower fuel economy. It trades serviceability for performance, as turbocharged direct-injection engines are less forgiving of stretched oil changes. Compared to the 2017-2019 2.0L above, it costs more and has a more complex drivetrain but offers significantly more power. Buy only with documented service, and treat low-speed judder as a negotiating point or a walk-away.

4. 2024-2025 Kia Soul 2.0L

The 2024-2025 Soul ranks fourth as the newest option, featuring revised front and rear styling and freshened trims with the same dependable 2.0L engine and CVT. Its shortest track record means less long-term reliability data, but it comes with the longest remaining warranty and near-new pricing. Standard safety features include forward-collision-avoidance assist and lane-keeping assist on most trims. This generation maintains the SK3's improved cabin and ride quality.

This pick is for buyers who want a new car with full warranty coverage and the latest design, accepting the highest depreciation in the first years. It trades value for freshness, costing significantly more than the 2020-2023 models above with only minor styling updates. Compared to the GT-Line Turbo, it lacks the 201-hp engine but offers simpler, more efficient operation. It is best for those who prioritize peace of mind over price.

5. 2015-2019 Kia Soul EV

The 2015-2019 Soul EV ranks fifth as the cheapest electric option, with early 27 kWh packs offering roughly 90-110 miles and the 2018-2019 update providing 30 kWh and about 111 miles. Its operating cost per mile is very low, and used pricing is depressed relative to condition due to range anxiety. It delivers quiet, smooth city driving with instant torque, making it a compelling urban commuter.

This pick is for drivers with a short commute and home charging, where the sub-115-mile range is sufficient. It trades range and fast-charging support for exceptional efficiency and a low purchase price. Compared to the 2024-2025 2.0L above, it is much cheaper but requires planning around a charger for longer trips. Without home charging, this car is not recommended, as its limited range becomes a daily burden.

6. 2014-2016 Kia Soul 2.0L

The 2014-2016 Soul with the 2.0L Nu engine ranks sixth as a budget option with homework, offering 164 hp and a conventional six-speed automatic. This engine family largely avoided the oil-consumption issues of the 1.6L GDI, making it a more reliable choice from this era. The car is usable with documented service, but it demands a recall check and verification of maintenance records. Its interior and tech are dated compared to later generations.

This pick is for budget-conscious buyers who are willing to verify VIN recall status and oil-consumption test records before purchase. It trades modern safety features and interior quality for a lower sticker price, sitting below the 2017-2019 2.0L in refinement. Compared to the Soul EV above, it offers longer range and no charging concerns but higher fuel costs. It is a decent choice only with a clean service history and completed recalls.

7. 2012-2013 Kia Soul 2.0L

The 2012-2013 Soul with the 2.0L GDI engine ranks seventh, offering 164 hp from the refreshed first-generation AM platform. This engine carries some oil-consumption risk, as GDI versions were part of Hyundai-Kia recall and inspection campaigns. The car is old, with suspension wear, salt-belt corrosion, and dated safety equipment being common issues. It is usable only with documented service and a thorough VIN check for open recalls.

This pick is for buyers on a tight budget who are prepared to invest time in verification and potential repairs. It trades modern comfort and reliability for the lowest possible entry price, ranking below the 2014-2016 2.0L in overall quality. Compared to the Soul EV, it has no electric range limits but suffers from higher running costs and older technology. A lift inspection is essential to check for rust on rocker panels and brake lines.

8. 2014-2016 Kia Soul 1.6L

The 2014-2016 Soul with the 1.6L GDI base engine ranks eighth because it is underpowered at 130 hp and carries the highest oil-consumption risk in the lineup. This engine family generated the most complaints and was included in engine-fire recall campaigns, making it a risky purchase without full documentation. Its fuel economy is modest, and the driving experience is sluggish in traffic. It demands the most scrutiny of any second-generation model.

This pick is for buyers who must have the cheapest Soul and are willing to accept significant risk, but it is not recommended for most. It trades performance and reliability for a low sticker, ranking below the 2012-2013 2.0L due to the weaker engine. Compared to the 2017-2019 2.0L above, it is far less dependable and offers no cost advantage after factoring in potential repairs. Verify oil-consumption test records and recall completion before considering this car.

9. 2010-2011 Kia Soul 2.0L

The 2010-2011 Soul with the 2.0L engine ranks ninth as the oldest option, producing 142 hp with a conventional automatic. These first-generation AM cars are simply old, with suspension wear, salt-belt corrosion, and dated safety equipment being pervasive issues. They lack modern driver-assistance features and have a less refined interior than later models. Reliability is conditional on extensive maintenance documentation, which is rare at this age.

This pick is for collectors or buyers with mechanical skills who can handle ongoing repairs, not for daily drivers. It trades everything—safety, comfort, efficiency—for the absolute lowest purchase price, ranking below the 2014-2016 1.6L due to its age. Compared to the 2012-2013 2.0L above, it has a non-GDI engine that is simpler but still suffers from old-age issues. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is mandatory to assess rust and component wear.

10. 2010-2011 Kia Soul 1.6L

The 2010-2011 Soul with the 1.6L engine ranks last because it makes just 122 hp, making it the slowest and least capable Soul ever produced. Its first-generation platform is old, with dated safety equipment and no modern driver-assistance features. The engine is non-GDI, which avoids oil-consumption issues, but the car's age brings suspension and corrosion problems. It offers the least value per dollar of any model year.

This pick is for no one in practical terms, as it is outclassed by every other Soul on the market. It trades all performance, comfort, and safety for the cheapest possible entry, ranking below the 2010-2011 2.0L due to its weaker engine. Compared to the 2020-2023 2.0L at the top, it is a completely different ownership risk profile with far higher maintenance needs.

How we ranked these

We ranked Kia Soul model years by weighting engine-and-transmission reliability, safety equipment availability, interior quality, and real-world fuel economy. The 2.0L Nu engine and CVT pairing scored highest for durability, while the 1.6L GDI and dual-clutch variants were penalized for documented issues. We also factored in recall history, crash-test ratings, and ownership cost data from NHTSA, IIHS, and consumer reports.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and resale value projections, as these vary by market and personal taste. We also excluded anecdotal owner reviews without verifiable data, and we did not consider hypothetical future reliability. Our focus was on measurable, historical performance and known failure patterns, ensuring the ranking reflects evidence rather than speculation.

What to look for

When choosing between Kia Soul model years, prioritize the drivetrain over the trim level. The 2020–2023 SK3 with the 2.0L and CVT offers the best reliability and standard safety tech, while the 2017–2019 PS with the 2.0L and six-speed automatic provides the best value. Always run a VIN check for open recalls and verify maintenance records, especially for 2012–2016 GDI engines.

The biggest mistake buyers make is treating all Souls as the same car. A 2015 base with the 1.6L GDI is a completely different risk profile than a 2018 Plus with the 2.0L. Many shoppers focus on price and mileage, ignoring the engine type and recall status. This leads to costly repairs down the road. Always inspect the specific car's history and condition, not just the model year.

Related questions

Does the Kia Soul come with all-wheel drive?

No, every Kia Soul generation is front-wheel drive only. If you need AWD, consider the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Kona, or Honda HR-V. In snowy regions, a good set of winter tires on a front-drive Soul can handle most conditions, but for serious off-road or heavy snow, AWD is a better choice.

How many miles will a Kia Soul last?

A well-maintained 2.0L Nu Soul can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles with regular oil changes and routine maintenance. The key is documented service history. Undocumented GDI-engine cars from 2012–2016 are more likely to have issues, so always check for oil consumption and recall completion.

Is the CVT in the 2020+ Soul reliable?

Kia's intelligent variable transmission has shown good reliability in the SK3 generation, with no widespread failure patterns. Follow the manufacturer's fluid service intervals and test drive the car cold to ensure smooth operation. Avoid cars with a history of shuddering or hesitation.

Which Soul trim gives the most equipment for the money?

On the second generation (2014–2019), the Plus (+) trim offers the best value with a larger touchscreen, alloy wheels, and improved ride comfort without the turbo's complexity. On the third generation (2020+), mid-tier trims add useful driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring while staying below GT-Line pricing.

Is a used Soul EV worth buying today?

Yes, if you have a short commute and home charging. The Soul EV offers very low operating costs and is priced below its condition due to range anxiety. However, with only 90–111 miles of range, it's not suitable for long trips or without reliable charging access. Always check battery health before purchase.

What is the difference between the 1.6L and 2.0L engine in the Soul?

The 1.6L GDI engine (2012–2016) is underpowered and has a history of oil consumption issues. The 2.0L Nu engine is more reliable and powerful, especially in the 2017–2019 models with 161 hp. The 2.0L is the safer choice for long-term ownership.

Are there any recalls on the Kia Soul?

Yes, certain model years, especially 2012–2016 with the 1.6L GDI, have been part of engine and fire recall campaigns. Always check the NHTSA website and Kia's owner portal with your VIN to see if any recalls are open. Open recalls are fixed free at dealerships.

What is the best Kia Soul for a first-time buyer?

The 2017–2019 PS with the 2.0L engine is ideal for first-time buyers. It offers a reliable six-speed automatic, a comfortable interior, and a lower price than newer models. It lacks some modern safety tech but is a solid, affordable choice with good durability.

FAQ

Which Kia Soul model year should I avoid?

Avoid 2012–2016 models with the 1.6L GDI engine. This engine has a high rate of oil consumption complaints and was part of recall campaigns. If you're looking at these years, choose the 2.0L Nu engine and verify all recalls are completed via VIN check.

Is the Kia Soul reliable long-term?

Yes, especially the 2017–2019 second generation and 2020+ third generation with the 2.0L engine. The Nu engine has a strong durability record, and the CVT in the SK3 has been reliable. Regular oil changes are crucial; a well-documented service history greatly improves longevity.

What's the real difference between the Soul and the Soul Turbo?

The Turbo has a 201-hp 1.6L turbo engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, offering much better acceleration. However, it gets lower fuel economy, has low-speed clutch hesitation, and requires stricter maintenance. The standard 2.0L is simpler and cheaper to own long-term.

How much should I pay for a used Kia Soul?

Prices vary by region, mileage, and trim. Generally, first-generation AM cars are cheapest, mid-2010s PS models are in the middle, and 2020+ SK3 models are most expensive. Soul EVs are often discounted due to range anxiety. Check local listings and compare with KBB or Edmunds.

Is the Soul EV's range enough for daily use?

The 27 kWh battery gives about 90–110 miles, and the 30 kWh gives about 111 miles when new. Used packs will have degraded, so expect less. For a 30-mile round trip commute, it's fine with home charging, but for longer trips or without charging, it's not practical.

What safety features come on the 2020–2023 Kia Soul?

Most trims include forward-collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and a rearview camera. Blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are on higher trims. Check the specific trim and year for exact features, and verify crash-test ratings at IIHS and NHTSA.

How do I check for recalls on a Kia Soul?

Use the NHTSA recall lookup website or Kia's owner portal. Enter the VIN to see any open recalls. Open recalls are repaired free at any Kia dealership, regardless of ownership. Don't rely solely on a Carfax report; always check official sources.

What is the fuel economy of the Kia Soul?

The 2020+ SK3 with the 2.0L and CVT gets around 30 mpg combined. The turbo version is slightly lower. Older models with six-speed automatics are a bit less efficient. Always check fueleconomy.gov for the specific year and trim for accurate ratings.

Is the Kia Soul good for tall drivers?

Yes, the Soul's boxy design provides excellent headroom and upright seating, making it comfortable for tall drivers. The front seats have good adjustment range, and the tall roof means easy entry and exit. The rear seats also offer decent legroom for passengers.

Can I use a Kia Soul for towing?

The Kia Soul is not designed for heavy towing. Most models have a towing capacity of around 1,000-2,000 pounds, but it's not recommended for regular towing. Check your owner's manual for specific limits. For towing needs, consider a larger vehicle like the Kia Sorento.

Sources

• https://www.kia.com/us/en/soul
• https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov
• https://www.edmunds.com/kia/soul/
• https://www.kbb.com/kia/soul/
• https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/kia-soul-4-door-wagon

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