Kia Soul 2
Kia Soul 2
What is it?
The Kia Soul is difficult to categorise. It’s the size of a supermini – like a Ford Fiesta – but with the practicality and raised driving position of an SUV. Think of it as a Nissan Qashqai. But smaller. Or a Ford Fusion. But done with imagination. And you start to get the picture. Add to that a bit of funky styling – whether to your taste or not – and that’s the recipe for the all-new Kia Soul. Also available with a 1.6 diesel.
What’s hot?
- Tall and upright stance makes for an airy interior and good view
- There’s also lots of space inside…
- …Easily takes five adults
- Lower the rear seats and there’s a flat load bay (with optional boot tray)
- …which adds brilliantly useful and hidden storage organiser
- Decent gearchange, good seats, easy to drive
- Spritely engine also delivers over 43mpg
- Well made, and well-finished interior
- Standard anti-skid ESP stability programme
- There’s also standard air con, electric windows and remote locking…
- …plus 16 inch alloy wheels, front fog lights
- Plus a generous five-year warranty for peace of mind
What’s not?
- The ride might have been developed in conjunction with Lotus…
- …but it’s unremittingly firm
- And bangs and clunks over ruts
- There’s too much road noise transmitted from the wheels
- Need to add £130 optional underfloor luggage tray…
- …Otherwise fold-down flat floor is compromised
What you need to Know?
| P11D Value: | 11,495 |
| Monthly Rental*: | 165 (CH)/£190 (PCH) |
| Tax Band when posted: | 18% |
| Monthly BiK: | n/a |
| Engine: | 1.6 litre 4-cyl petrol |
| CO2 Emissions: | 153g/km |
| Power/torque: | 124bhp/156Nm |
| Economy: | 43.5mpg |
Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year.
Business Car Manager Road Test Rating
It’s a shame this likeable oddball is let down by its ride and noise levels. Otherwise the Kia Soul offers remarkable value for money. There’s a lot of car for the money here and there’s a big warranty to back it all up. The Kia Soul has definite appeal to a driver with a young family that doesn’t want something too pragmatic and utilitarian. Or that’s too expensive, either.
