2012 Kia Soul
Key Takeaways
- New colors for 2012
- Navigation and heated seats come with Premium Package
- Revised wheels, lights and body panels for a fresh look from last year's model
What We Think
This spunky Kia does what it's supposed to do, and as it turns out it actually has soul too.
The boxy 2012 Kia Soul comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and a 135-hp, four-cylinder engine. A 160-hp engine is optional. Both engines return about 30 mpg in mixed driving. Standard features include 15-inch wheels, a chrome-accented grille and a CD/MP3 player plus Bluetooth connectivity. A six-speed automatic transmission is available for either engine.
Safety features include an advanced airbag system, electronic stability control and tire-pressure monitoring. The Soul is front-wheel drive only. It will hold 53 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats folded down. A power sunroof is optional, as are an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, remote start and a rear spoiler.



