The new Kia Soul begs one big question: Is this thing cool?
The Soul is a five-door hatch about a half-foot shorter than a Scion xB, one of the youth-market vehicles that likely inspired Kia to enter this niche (the Honda Element is another; ditto the Nissan Cube, the all-new version of which will arrive here next spring as a 2009 model). The Soul began life as a very cool concept car in 2006, but the powerful, big-haunch look and a lot of the trick, appealing aspects have been finessed out in the obligatory production compromise.
Looks are the whole ballgame here, because beneath the radically angled window line and the buff fender bulges and the seat fabric that glows in the dark with the word “soul” is basically a good-sized but unspectacular economy box.
See also:
Smooth and Comfortable Ride
With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an
overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Kia Forte offers
one of the roomiest interiors in its class ...
Special driving conditions
Hazardous driving conditions
When hazardous driving conditions are
encountered such as water, snow, ice,
mud, sand, or similar hazards, follow
these suggestions:
• Drive cautiously and allow ex ...
Fuel requirements
Gasoline engine (unleaded)
Your new Kia vehicle is designed to use
only unleaded fuel with a minimum
Octane Rating of 87 Anti-Knock Index
(AKI).
NOTICE
NEVER USE LEADED FUEL. The use
of leaded ...


