2020s, Blog, KIA, New Car Reviews
by gastonrossato

2023 Kia Soul GT-Line

unconventional, stylized-toaster

Prices start at $21,215.00

Is the KIA Soul new for 2023?


Yes, the 2023 Kia Soul has undergone a light makeover, featuring updates such as a new grille and bumper designs, reshaped headlamps, and the introduction of new 17- and 18-inch wheel options. Notably, the rugged-looking X-Line model has been discontinued. The GT-Line model, the model I tested, presents a sportier alternative with distinct wheel design and body-color trim. Additionally, it comes equipped with a suite of driver assists, including automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear-cross-traffic alert.

Kia Soul Trim levels

The Kia Soul is offered in four trim levels:

  • LX
  • S
  • GT-Line (as tested)
  • EX

Tested Kia Soul GT-Line: suggested retail price of $23,490.00 not including destination charge.

What is the Kia Soul warranty?

  • 10 year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty
  • 5 year/60,000-mile limited warranty
  • 5 year/60,000-mile Roadside Assistance
  • 5 year/100,000-mile Corrosion

What engine comes with the kia Soul?

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

The Kia Soul only comes available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which produces 147 horsepower. Which comes paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

What are the interior features of the Kia Soul?


The Soul’s upright design ensures a spacious and playful interior, complementing its stylish exterior. Kia’s thoughtful details include textured door-panel inserts and vibrant trim, coupled with ambient lighting. Owners can personalize with two-tone paint options and interior color schemes. Despite the rear seats not folding completely flat, the tall-roofed Soul offers practical cargo space, claiming to accommodating seven carry-on suitcases or up to 20 cases with the seats folded down.

Touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability is standard across the board, and all trims but the base model receive a large 10.3-inch display; the LX gets an 8.0-inch unit. The models with the 10.3-inch display will also come with SiriusXM satellite radio, real-time traffic updates, in-dash navigation, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Most models come with a six-speaker stereo, but a Harman/Kardon setup is optional on the GT-Line model

How does the Kia Soul Drive?

I have two perspectives to answer this question:

As a fairly tall, family man, the car is extremely spacious, Despite being a smaller vehicle. I did use it in family environment, meaning three kids and a stroller. A very simple and practical car to use on a daily bases, easy to park, easy to load.

As a car enthusiast, Don’t let the “nice” look fool you. This little Kia has an aggressive side. I was surprised in dynamic change when switched over to dynamic mode. The looks are sporty as well especially given the vehicle class.

Final thoughts

I think it’s a younger demographic car, but it gets the job done and with a reasonable budget too. Not a lot of cars in this category, so it’s a contender in my book.

Kia Soul GT-Line features

Basics

  • 2.0L I-4 DOHC Multi Point Injection Engine
  • Front-Wheel Drive
  • 18″Alloy Wheels
  • Strut Front Suspension w/Coil Springs
  • 4-Wheel Disc Brakes w/4-Wheel ABS
  • Black Power Heated Side Mirrors w/Manual Folding and Turn Signal Indicator
  • Black Grille w/Chrome Accents
  • Headlights-Automatic Highbeams
  • Electric Power-Assist Speed-Sensing Steering

Technology

  • 10.3 Display
  • Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Kia Connect
  • SIRIUSXM with Free 3-months
  • USB input
  • 60-40 Folding Bench Front Facing Fold Forward Seatback Rear Seat
  • Proximity Key For Doors And Push Button Start
  • Cruise Control w/Steering Wheel Controls
  • Dual Zone Front Automatic Air Conditioning
  • Smart Device Remote Engine Start

Safety

  • Lane Following Assist
  • Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • ABS And Driveline Traction Control
  • Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
  • Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Departure Warning
  • Driver Monitoring-Alert
  • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Back-Up Camera
  • Airbag Occupancy Sensor

*Features available with GT-Line model.

For more information about the Kia Soul, please visit https://www.kia.com/us/en/soul