2013 Kia Soul
Changes for the 2013 Kia Soul
Few changes are in store for the 2013 Soul. The badges wear a slightly different look, there are more paint colors available, and Bluetooth connectivity is now standard. The top trim level now includes standard power folding side mirrors.
Model Lineup
The Soul, a 5-door multi-purpose vehicle, can be equipped with base, Plus (+) and Exclaim (!) trim levels. Standard equipment includes 15-inch steel wheels, power accessories, air conditioning, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, Bluetooth, a USB port, and an auxiliary audio input jack. Get the Soul Plus version for 16-inch aluminum wheels, cruise control, an upgraded sound system, and better interior trim.
The top-of-the-line Soul Exclaim models have 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED running lights, automatic projector-beam headlights, and fog lights. Inside, this model includes upgraded upholstery, a premium Infinity sound system that features pulsing speaker lighting, UVO smartphone pairing technology, and a power sunroof. Features such as a touch-screen navigation system with real-time traffic information, leather, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a Smart Key entry system with push-button start are available for the Soul Exclaim.
Engines and Transmissions
The base Kia Soul is powered by a 138-horsepower, 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. The Soul Plus and Soul Exclaim are equipped with a 164-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard for Soul and Soul Plus, with a 6-speed automatic optional for these two versions of the car and standard for the Soul Exclaim.
Fuel Economy Ratings
The EPA says that the 2013 Soul with the 1.6-liter engine should return 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, regardless of engine choice. Getting the larger 2.0-liter engine takes a slight toll on fuel efficiency to the tune of 24-city/29-highway for the manual and 23-city/28-highway for the automatic.
Safety Ratings
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the 2013 Soul a 4-Star overall crash-test rating, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) calls the Soul a “Top Safety Pick.”
Technology Highlights
Kia offers UVO smartphone pairing technology on some Soul models, combined with a touchscreen infotainment system. Short for “your voice,” UVO syncs with your phone to make calls, pull up music playlists, and enjoy Bluetooth streaming audio, all through the touchscreen or by voice commands.
