Pulse Reviews and Analysis
Best Kia Soul Model Years (Ranked)
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate
Best Kia Soul Model Years (Ranked)
The Kia Soul is one of the best-value subcompact crossovers on the used market, blending boxy practicality, a roomy upright cabin, and a low price across three generations. Since its 2009 debut, the Soul has earned a reputation for affordability and surprising space efficiency, but not every model year is equally trustworthy.
Some early GDI engines drew oil-consumption complaints and engine-fire recalls, while certain years stand out for refinement, reliability, and resale value. This ranking walks through the strongest Soul model years and variants, from the polished third-generation SK3 to the well-rounded second-generation PS, plus the spirited Soul Turbo and the electric Soul EV.
Pick the right year and the Soul is a genuinely smart, frugal, dependable used buy.
Direct Answer
The best overall Kia Soul is the 2020-2023 third-generation (SK3), which pairs a refined 2.0L engine with a CVT, a far nicer interior, more standard safety tech, and the strongest reliability record in the lineup. For shoppers focused on value, the best value is the 2017-2019 second-generation (PS) with the 2.0L Nu engine, which offers proven durability, good space, and rock-bottom used pricing while sidestepping the earliest GDI engine concerns.
Be cautious with 2012-2016 Souls equipped with the 1.6L or 2.0L GDI engines unless oil-consumption history and any engine-related recall service are well documented. Across the board, the naturally aspirated engines paired with an automatic are the safest, lowest-cost picks for a worry-free Soul.
1. 2020-2023 Third Generation (SK3) 🏆 BEST OVERALL
The third-generation Soul is the nameplate's high point. It rides on a stiffer platform with sharper styling, a markedly upscale interior, and a standard 2.0L Nu four-cylinder (147 hp) paired with an intelligent variable transmission (a CVT) that improves both smoothness and efficiency to roughly 30 mpg combined.
Higher trims add a punchy 1.6L turbocharged engine (201 hp) with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
This generation also brought standard forward-collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist on most trims, plus a large available touchscreen. Reliability has been strong, with the Nu engine avoiding the worst early concerns. If your budget reaches a recent used example, the SK3 is the Soul to buy.
2. 2017-2019 Second Generation (PS) — 2.0L Nu 💎 BEST VALUE
The late second-generation Soul with the 2.0L Nu engine is the value champion. The dependable naturally aspirated four (161 hp) with a six-speed automatic offers smooth, adequate performance and avoids the oil-consumption complaints tied to some earlier GDI fours. A 2017 refresh updated the styling and added more available safety tech.
The cabin is roomy, upright, and practical, and by these years Kia had improved build quality and infotainment. The best value is a 2017-2019 Plus (+) trim, which bundles a bigger touchscreen, alloy wheels, and a comfortable ride at a used price well below most rivals. These Souls have a solid record for durability when maintained.
3. 2020-2023 Soul Turbo (GT-Line 1.6T)
The third-generation Soul GT-Line Turbo deserves its own spot for adding real driving fun. Its 1.6L turbocharged engine makes 201 horsepower and pairs with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, giving the boxy Soul genuinely quick acceleration and a sportier character than any naturally aspirated version.
It keeps the practical packaging and upgraded SK3 interior while adding firmer suspension tuning, larger wheels, and unique styling. Reliability has been good, though the dual-clutch transmission can feel hesitant at low speeds and deserves a careful test drive. For a buyer who wants a peppy, distinctive small crossover, a clean used GT-Line Turbo is an enjoyable, well-rounded pick.
4. 2014-2016 Second Generation (PS) — 2.0L
The early second-generation Soul brought a roomier, quieter cabin and a more grown-up driving feel than the original. The 2.0L Nu engine (164 hp) with a six-speed automatic is the one to seek, offering reasonable power and better long-term durability than the smaller 1.6L GDI.
These cars improved noticeably in ride comfort and interior materials over the first generation, and they remain very affordable today. Verify oil-consumption history and any recall service through the VIN before buying. For a budget-minded shopper who wants modern-enough features and a practical shape, a well-maintained 2014-2016 2.0L Soul is a sensible, low-cost choice.
5. 2024-2025 Third Generation (SK3, Refreshed)
The mid-cycle refresh updated the third-generation Soul with revised front and rear styling, freshened trims, and continued use of the dependable 2.0L Nu engine with the CVT. As the newest and most expensive used option, it has the shortest track record but the most current technology and the longest remaining factory warranty, including Kia's long powertrain coverage.
Early reliability impressions are positive, consistent with the rest of the SK3 run. Buy this one if you want the latest interior tech, the freshest styling, and warranty peace of mind, and are comfortable paying near-new pricing. It remains among the most practical and frugal subcompact crossovers available.
6. 2015-2019 Soul EV (First Generation Electric)
The original Soul EV was an early, well-executed electric crossover. Early cars used a 27 kWh battery for roughly 90-110 miles of range, while the updated 2018-2019 version grew to a 30 kWh pack and about 111 miles. It drives smoothly and quietly, with the same practical boxy cabin as the gas Soul.
Range is modest by modern standards, so it suits city and commuter duty rather than long trips. Check battery health and charging history carefully. Pricing on used Soul EVs is very low, making one an inexpensive entry into electric ownership for short-range drivers who value the Soul's space and easy parking.
7. 2017-2019 Soul Turbo (PS 1.6T Exclaim)
The second-generation Soul Exclaim (!) Turbo introduced the 1.6L turbocharged engine (201 hp) with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to the lineup. It transformed the Soul's performance, adding strong mid-range punch and a sportier feel while keeping the practical body and a well-equipped cabin.
These are enjoyable, distinctive cars, but the dual-clutch transmission can be jerky at parking speeds and the turbo engine demands disciplined maintenance with quality oil. Buy one with documented service. For a used shopper who wants more pace than the standard 2.0L without stepping up to the newer generation, a clean PS Turbo offers a fun, affordable package.
8. 2012-2013 First Generation (AM, Refreshed)
The refreshed first-generation Soul added the 1.6L and 2.0L GDI engines and updated styling. The 2.0L (164 hp) is the stronger, more satisfying choice, and a six-speed automatic improved drivability over the original. These cars are now aging and very cheap.
The important caution is that some GDI engines from this era drew oil-consumption complaints and were later included in engine-fire recall campaigns affecting various Hyundai-Kia models. Run the VIN through Kia and NHTSA recall lookups and verify any completed service. Treated as budget transportation with documented maintenance, a 2012-2013 2.0L Soul can be a usable, low-cost runabout.
9. 2010-2011 First Generation (AM)
The original Soul launched the boxy, youthful formula that made the model a hit. Early cars offered a 1.6L (122 hp) or 2.0L (142 hp) four-cylinder, with the larger engine the better pick for highway use. The design is charming and the cabin is genuinely spacious for the footprint.
These are old vehicles now, so expect the usual concerns of suspension wear, corrosion in salt-belt states, and aging electronics, plus dated safety equipment by current standards. The upside is rock-bottom pricing. A well-kept 2010-2011 2.0L Soul makes a serviceable, characterful budget car, but it lacks the refinement and safety tech of later years.
10. 2014-2016 Second Generation (PS) — 1.6L Base
The base second-generation Soul used a 1.6L GDI engine (130 hp) with either a manual or six-speed automatic. It is the most economical PS-generation option but the least powerful, and it feels strained on the highway and when loaded.
More importantly, the 1.6L GDI is the engine to scrutinize for oil-consumption history and recall status, as smaller direct-injection fours from this era drew the most complaints. For most buyers, stepping up to the 2.0L of the same generation is well worth it for stronger performance and fewer worries.
Consider a base 1.6L only if it is cheap, documented, and intended for light city use.
What to Watch For When Buying
The most important step when buying a used Soul is to check the engine and recall history through the VIN. Smaller GDI four-cylinders from roughly 2012-2016 drew oil-consumption complaints, and various Hyundai-Kia models of that era were later swept into engine and engine-fire recall and warranty campaigns.
Run the VIN through Kia's recall lookup and the NHTSA database, confirm any software updates or engine work were completed, and ask for oil-consumption test records. Choosing a 2.0L Nu engine, especially in later PS and SK3 cars, sidesteps most of this concern. Beyond the engine, test the dual-clutch transmission in Turbo models for low-speed hesitation, inspect suspension and bushings on higher-mileage cars, verify all driver-assistance features work on SK3 trims, and confirm the CVT shifts smoothly.
On Soul EVs, prioritize battery state of health. Documented maintenance always outweighs a low sticker price.
How to Choose
Match the Soul to your priorities. For the best blend of refinement, safety tech, and reliability, the 2020-2025 third-generation SK3 is the answer, with the standard 2.0L the easiest pick and the 1.6T GT-Line for those wanting more pace. For the best value with proven durability, a 2017-2019 2.0L PS Soul is hard to beat at a low used price.
Buyers wanting fun on a budget can consider a PS or SK3 Turbo, accepting the dual-clutch quirks. City drivers open to electric can look at a cheap Soul EV for short-range commuting. Bargain hunters can consider first-generation cars, but should favor the 2.0L and verify recall completion.
In every case, prioritize a clean maintenance history.
FAQ
Which Kia Soul years should I avoid? Be cautious with 2012-2016 Souls using the smaller GDI engines, which drew the most oil-consumption complaints and fall within various Hyundai-Kia engine recall windows. The 2.0L versions, and especially later 2017-2025 cars, are the safer choices.
Are Kia Souls reliable? Yes, generally. Later second-generation and all third-generation Souls with the 2.0L Nu engine have a solid reliability record. Earlier GDI engines require more scrutiny, but a well-maintained Soul is an affordable, dependable used car.
Is the Soul Turbo worth it? The 1.6L Turbo adds real performance and is genuinely fun, but its seven-speed dual-clutch transmission can hesitate at low speeds and demands disciplined oil changes. Buy one with documented maintenance and test it carefully before committing.
Which Soul is best for buyers on a budget? A 2017-2019 2.0L Soul offers good space, a durable engine that avoids the worst GDI concerns, and a used price well below newer rivals, making it the smart budget pick for most shoppers.
Bottom Line
The Kia Soul is an underrated used subcompact crossover value, but engine and model-year choice matters because of oil-consumption and recall concerns on some early GDI fours. The 2020-2025 third-generation SK3 is the best overall pick, with refined powertrains and strong reliability, while the 2017-2019 2.0L PS offers the best value.
When shopping any Soul, favor the 2.0L Nu engine to sidestep the worst concerns, test the dual-clutch in Turbo models, and always confirm service and recall history through the VIN.
Sources
- Kia USA official Soul model history and specifications, kia.com
- NHTSA recall database including Hyundai-Kia engine recalls for Kia Soul, nhtsa.gov
- EPA Fuel Economy ratings for Kia Soul by model year, fueleconomy.gov
- Edmunds Kia Soul generation reviews and used-car appraisals, edmunds.com
- Kelley Blue Book Kia Soul used values by model year, kbb.com
- Wikipedia Kia Soul generations and technical specifications, en.wikipedia.org