The Kia Soul: A Long-Lasting Subcompact
The Kia Soul has managed to outlast other boxy cars in its segment, such as the Honda Element, Scion xB, and Nissan Cube. Despite a decline in sales in recent years, the Soul continues to find around 60,000 new homes each year in the U.S. Kia has kept the model line on cruise control, with minimal changes since its last refresh in 2023. The 2025 model year brings a slight price increase of $100 across all trims, along with a new Soulmate Special Edition built on the EX trim.
The 2025 Kia Soul Pricing and Features
Kia has raised MSRPs by $100 for the 2025 model year, along with a $50 increase in the destination charge. The prices for each trim after the increase and destination charge are as follows:
– LX: $21,665
– S: $24,165
– GT-Line: $25,265
– EX: $25,965
Introducing the Soulmate Special Edition
The highlight of the 2025 Kia Soul lineup is the Soulmate Special Edition, which is based on the EX trim. This edition features a two-tone roof and lower body cladding, along with 18-inch wheels. Inside, the Soulmate Special Edition boasts SynTex and Cloth Seating in an umber color, as well as Harman Kardon premium audio. This edition is an upgraded version of last year’s Designer Package, with additional features like the two-tone roof and premium audio.
Enhanced Features and Options
The premium audio system that was previously only available in the GT-Line Technology Package is now an option on the EX trim for 2025. Additionally, the RS shock absorbers from the GT-Line are now available as an option, potentially included in the Soulmate Special Edition as well. While Kia did not disclose the price of the Soulmate makeover, it is expected to be higher than the $500 cost of the Designer Package from the previous year.
Consistent Performance with a 2.0-Liter Engine
All Kia Soul models for the 2025 model year are equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The Soul comes exclusively with a CVT transmission, as the manual transmission option was discontinued in 2022. Despite the lack of major changes or updates, the Kia Soul continues to offer a reliable and versatile option in the subcompact segment.