2017 Kia Soul Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The modernized look of the boxy style cars and tall wagons may not appeal to everyone, however, they remain popular with drivers who want a unique look for their practical car. The 2017 Kia Soul is the latest model from the South Korean vehicle manufacturer, which is currently headquartered in Seoul. The company is the second largest car manufacturer in the country and one of the fastest growing brands in the world. In a short time, the brand has come a global contestant in the car industry, and once you drive one it’s easy to see why.

What’s New for 2017?

While the five-door hatchback has been a favorite for many drivers since it was first released several years ago, there is one feature that it has always lacked up until now, and that is horsepower. The 2017 Kia Soul is now equipped with a 201-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that provides the power to complete the fun and stylish package that the Soul has always offered. Another new feature for 2017 is the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, blind-spot detection, additional USB ports and so much more.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Kia Soul – The Pros

You may choose the 2017 Kia Soul simply because you trust the brand, or you like the overall style of the vehicle. But if you are comparing SUVs and other crossover cars to find the best one to suit your needs, you should read on to find out more about the many benefits of the latest Soul model.

1. Enhanced Turbo Power

The brand new turbocharged engine that is featured in the 2017 Kia Soul Exclaim provides drivers with the power they have been wanting out of this sporty box car. Even with a new upgraded engine under the hood, the Kia Soul still has better fuel economy than others in its class, giving you the power that you want behind the wheel without paying out too much at the pump.

2. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

If you’re looking for a car that boasts modern features, then this is the one for you. The new addition of the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could be the best thing to be invented for cars since the sound system. With Apple’s CarPlay, you get access to everything that your iPhone has to offer such as Apple Music. And when you use Android Auto, you get access to apps like Google Maps and Pandora, right at your fingertips.

3. Brand new Interior Design

For those who didn’t like the former interior design of the Kia Soul the new 2017 model offers more comfortable seating with improved upholstery and trim. There’s contrast stitching on the cloth and leather seats. And a D-shaped steering wheel that gives it an extra-sporty touch. There are dual USB ports so that you can charge any type of device from phones to tablets. And the boxy shape of the Soul gives passengers additional headroom and plenty of cargo space for all your supplies.

4. The Ever-Impressive Exterior

The Kia Soul has always had a unique exterior that is instantly recognized by others on the road, thanks in part to their genius marketing team and the driving hamster ads. There have been a few minor adjustments to the 2017 model. The front and rear bumpers have slightly changed and the Soul Exclaim model will now be available in Black. The Exclaim also features large 18-in alloy wheels and LED fog lights. The Kia Soul EV features a front charge port that is distinctly placed behind the grille in the front. The rugged styling allows for plenty of cargo space.

5. Extra Features on Standard Models

There are many exceptional features offered on the 2017 Kia Soul and many can be found on the standard model. The Base models include 16-in alloy wheels, and all new drive mode function, A-C, adjustable driver’s seat, and a DC fast charge port. The Soul is available in three stylish trims, the California-only EV-e3, the EV and the EV Plus.

6. Optional Features to Add On

The optional add-ons that you may choose from will vary by model level. With the base model. You can get the Convenience Pack which includes an updated audio system, rearview camera, and automatic headlights. The Plus models offer a Primo package that includes a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and heating and cooling in front. The Exclaim offers a Technology pack that includes an upgraded Harman/Kardon sound system while the Soul EV Plus has leather seating and a panoramic sunroof.

7. What’s Under the Hood

The base model for the 2017 Kia Soul has a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with 130 horsepower. It is available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. The Plus model has a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine with 161 horsepower that only comes in automatic.
There is also a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine available with 201 horsepower and 7-speed dual clutch automatic if that’s what you prefer.

8. It’s Affordable

The Kia Soul is an affordable option for an SUV crossover vehicle, especially if you are going with the Basic model. If you want to upgrade with more features, the Soul Plus is a great option as well. It compares well with its competitors in terms of pricing if you are looking at compact SUVs or hatchbacks.

9. A Fun, Trendy Car for the Young and Young at Heart

While the Kia Soul has always been marketed toward younger drivers, it is certainly a car that can be appreciated by drivers of all ages. The fun exterior and modernized features appeal to the 20-something crowd, yet it is also a nice family car for those drivers who don’t want to commit to a full-size minivan at the moment.

10.It’s Bigger on the Inside

The Kia Soul has a lot going for it. It may appear to not have much cargo space at first glance, but it has plenty of room on the inside making it ideal for a weekend trip to the mountains or weekly trips to the grocery store. The roomy interior helps to make this fun and trendy car a practical addition to your garage.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Kia Soul – The Cons

While there are plenty of good reasons to invest in a brand-new 2017 Kia Soul, the trendy little box car may not be for everyone. Here are a few reasons why some drivers may want to look for other options.

1. No All-Wheel Drive

You may think that because of the box-shaped design of the car, it should geometrically have all-wheel drive, but unfortunately, it doesn’t, which may one drawback that causes many buyers to look elsewhere if they would like a more reliable driving experience.

2. Significant Engine Noise

The engine can become noisy at times while on the road, which doesn’t seem to be a major problem with most Soul owners, but it could be a nuisance to those who enjoy a quieter, smoother driving experience.

3. The Box Car Style is Not for Everyone

The tall boxy appearance of the 2017 Kia Soul gives it plenty of room on the inside for passengers and cargo, but the modernized style may turn off some buyers who are looking for a more practical or traditional design.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition

The Kia Soul holds its own in the SUV industry with plenty of features and a unique style that you can’t get from any other SUV or crossover vehicle. It offers a surprising amount of cargo space and passenger space inside and it is more affordable than many other cars in its class. It also has an excellent drivetrain warranty at 10 years/100,000 miles.

Conclusion

The 2017 Kia Soul may not be the car for everyone, but it has plenty of offer all types of drivers from practical to adventurous. If you are looking for something new and exciting, don’t be turned off by the unusual shape of this reliable and fun car. It may turn out to be the very best car you have ever owned.