Advanced Platform/Chassis
Kia Soul is different, right down to its all-new platform. With its own distinctive style, Soul features front-wheel drive, a high roofline and an unusually long wheelbase. Built on a platform with a wheelbase of 100.4 inches, an overall length of 161.6 inches, an overall width of 70.3 inches and overall height of 63.4 inches the Soul offers a comfortable interior with roomy seating for up to five passengers. With more than 70 percent high-tensile-strength steel to enhance structural strength without adding a lot of weight, the all-new, Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness, benefiting handling, ride quality and refinement. Additional measures to help ensure good noise vibration and harshness (NVH) qualities are fitted throughout the Kia Soul.
Mounted on the front sub frame that supports the engine and transmission, the Kia Soul is fitted with a fully independent front and twist-beam rear suspension system, with front MacPherson struts and coil springs, designed to deliver responsive handling and an agile ride. In the rear, the Soul suspension is sub-frame-mounted with a transverse torsion beam axle with trailing arms for a smooth ride and minimum intrusion into the cargo space. For optimal space, the rear anti-roll stabilizer bar is mounted inside the torsion beam.
See also:
Handling: Capable but Not Quite There
As noted in our prior drives of the SX sedan, the Forte’s chassis isn’t tuned
for serenity. The hatchback’s MacPherson-strut front and torsion-beam rear
suspension, combined with 17-inch whe ...
Fuel filler lid
Opening the fuel filler lid
The fuel filler lid must be opened from
inside the vehicle by pushing the fuel
filler lid opener button located on the driver’s
door.
NOTICE:
If the fuel filler l ...
Safety
The Kia Sportage boasts six standard airbags -- front and side-impact airbags
for both driver and passenger, and side curtain airbags for both front- and
rear-seat occupants. Four-wheel antilock d ...


