For the 2012 model year, Kia decided to add a couple horses to the Soul’s stable, increase its fuel efficiency and to add even more doo-dads to the already generous list of equipment.
Great news if you’re looking for a city roundabout, as you’ll get even more bang for your buck.
As before, two four-cylinder mills will be in charge of hustling the Soul along.
The 2.0-litre, 164-hp (up 22 hp) engine will sip 7.9 litres per 100 km in town and 5.8 litres on the highway, while the 1.6-litre, direct injection power plant will generate 138 hp (up 16) and burn 7.4 and 5.6 litres per 100 clicks in town and on the highway, respectively.
A six-speed manual or automatic transmission will be available in both cases.
The Soul will now feature a standard start/stop system that temporarily shuts the engine down when the car comes to a full stop, such as at a red light or in a traffic jam. That little extra ensures even greater fuel economy and eco-friendliness than the outgoing model.
Style-wise, the 2012 KIA Soul will be tweaked in front and back for a more muscular stance.
Inside, all versions benefit from a redesigned, modernized and quieter cabin and offer a more refined driving experience.
Kia is dropping several new standard features into the mix this time around, including a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Hillstart Assist Control (HAC).
Buyers will have a choice between seven variants: 1.6. 1.6 ECO, 2U, 4U, 4U Retro, 4U Burner and 4U Luxury.
The base 2012 KIA Soul will start at $16,595 and include power locks and windows, heated front seats, air conditioning and 15-inch steel wheels.
The 4U Luxury will pamper its occupants with such refinements as leather seats, automatic climate control, navigation, push-button start and a smart key.
