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2016 Kia Soul review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Kia Soul highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Many available features
  • Stylish cabin
  • Space for passengers

Cons

  • Ride is harsh
  • Handling lacks sharpness
  • Limited driver aids

Mileage (EPA estimate)

24 city, 30 highway, 26 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

A stylish and sensible

Embrace individuality and versatility with the 2016 Kia Soul. Boasting a distinctive design and spacious interior, the Soul stands out in the city and highway. With a range of trim options and features, you can find a Soul model to suit your unique style and preferences. Advanced technology and driver assistance features ensure a modern driving experience, while ample cargo space and comfortable seating make every journey enjoyable. The 2016 Kia Soul offers a fun and practical driving solution, whether commuting or embarking on weekend adventures.

All Kia Soul years

What is new for the 2016 Kia Soul?

  • Soul trims have been upgraded with Leather Seats as standard equipment this year.
  • Lane Departure Warning and Leatherette Seats features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The ! trim now comes with Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.
  • The + trim now comes with Rear View Camera as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 Kia Soul

1. Powertrain options 

Explore the diverse engine offerings of the 2016 Kia Soul, designed to meet your driving preferences and needs. Opt for the base model, powered by a responsive 1.6L four-cylinder engine, delivering 130 hp and 118 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Achieving an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined with the automatic transmission, this configuration ensures a balanced blend of power and efficiency.

Meanwhile, 2016 Soul+ and ! trims boast a more potent 2.0L four-cylinder engine, generating 164 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. With this setup, the 2016 Kia Soul offers exceptional gas mileage with an EPA-estimated combined 27 mpg.

2. Cabin comforts 

Unwind in the inviting interior of the 2016 Kia Soul, designed for the comfort of both driver and passengers alike. With its distinctive boxy design, the 2016 Soul offers ample headroom, boasting 39.6 inches in the front row and 39.5 inches in the rear, ensuring spacious accommodations for taller occupants. Effortlessly tailor your driving experience with standard features such as the tilt and telescopic steering wheel and height-adjustable driver's seat. For more customization, look for the top-tier Soul! model, which includes an eight-way power driver seat with two-way power lumbar support, allowing you to find your ideal seating position. 

3. Cargo-friendly 

If you're seeking a subcompact SUV that excels in cargo capacity without compromising versatility, the 2016 Kia Soul is a standout choice. With a generous 24.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear row and an expansive 61.3 cubic feet with the standard 60/40 split-rear seat folded, this model provides ample room for all your gear and essentials. Whether tackling urban errands or embarking on a weekend getaway, the 2016 Soul ensures you can bring everything you need for a memorable adventure. 

4. Generous features 

Experience a wealth of convenient amenities that enhance your daily commute in the 2016 Kia Soul. Standard features such as Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a six-speaker sound system equipped with satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack, and USB port seamlessly integrate entertainment and connectivity into your drive. 2016 Soul+ models elevate the driving experience with keyless entry and cruise control, offering added convenience and comfort. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line Soul! model exudes luxury with power-folding side mirrors featuring integrated LED turn signal indicators, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, premium leather upholstery, and stylish chrome interior accents, ensuring an enjoyable ride. 

5. Enhanced driver assistance 

The 2016 Kia Soul offers a range of driver aids to enhance your peace of mind. A rearview camera comes standard on the Soul+ and ! trims, and it's available on the base trim with the optional Convenience package. For heightened awareness, the Soul! offers optional lane departure warning and forward collision warning systems. The available infotainment interface also offers smartphone-enabled features, including emergency and roadside assistance, stolen vehicle tracking, and geofencing. Parents can also utilize speed tracking to set limits for teen drivers. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2016 Kia Soul is a compact car that is great for driving around town. Customers like that it has great gas mileage and is roomy enough to fit 4 people comfortably.
4
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Kia Soul an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Kia Soul 3rd out of 8 among Subcompact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Kia Soul

Kia Soul features and specs

Base 2WD 4D Wagon

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Rear View Camera

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

1.6L

Horsepower

130

Torque (ft-lbs)

118

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

14.2

Wheelbase

101.2"

Overall length

163"

Width

70.9"

Height

63"

Leg room

F 40.9"/R 39.1"

Head room

F 39.6"/R 39.5"

Front tires

P205/60HR16

Rear tires

P205/60HR16

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2016 Kia Soul FAQ

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