Kia is continuously discarding goodies from its quirky Soul hatchback. After eliminating the manual transmission last year, the automaker now has removed the more powerful turbo engine along with the X-Line trim, first launched with the third generation. For the 2023 Kia Soul, the customers will neither be able to order the 201-horsepower, 1.6-liter gasoline engine nor the X-Line model.
Engine
The 2023 Soul will now be available with only a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, generating 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The power goes to the front wheels through an automatic transmission.
Kia also produces the Soul with a zero-emission powertrain, but that’s not available in the United States.
Exterior
The refreshed design of the Soul includes a new front grille, redesigned fog lights, and new daytime running lights and taillights. The 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels come with new designs. Additionally, customers can order the Soul with two new two-tone shades where they can mix Clear White and Surf Blue with a Fusion Black roof.
Interior
The biggest change inside is the standard 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation (except for the entry-level LX trim). Besides, the customers can order the LX Technology Package, including Blind Spot Collision Avoidance, Rear Cross Collision Avoidance, and 16-inch wheels.
For better facilities, Kia offers the GT-Line Technology Package that adds the Harman Kardon sound system, heated front seats, electric parking brake, and an adjustable cargo floor. Furthermore, it encompasses LED headlights and taillights, a cargo cover, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Besides, it boosts safety tech with the Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning system.
Safety
Kia has spiced up its offering by moving the optional safety equipment into the standard column. All models now come equipped with:
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Forward Collision Avoidance Assist-Pedestrian
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Lane Keeping Assist + Lane Following Assist
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Driver Attention Warning
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Lane Departure Warning
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High Beam Assist
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Rear Occupant Alert
The 2023 Kia Soul will be available at showrooms later this summer. The pricing details aren’t revealed yet, but we can tell that the 2022 Soul starts at AED 75,000 here.
While we do not hear much about the Soul in the media, Kia tells us that the peculiar hatchback saw a 5 per cent growth in sales last year as they shipped more than 75,000 units.
Source and Images: Motor1