Kia is refreshing the boxy 2023 Soul with a new grille, larger touch screen, more standard safety tech and a streamlined menu of trims.
The subcompact hatchback continues to be a hot seller for the brand, with over 75,000 U.S. sales in 2021. The third-generation Soul was redesigned on an all-new platform for the 2020 model year. An electric variant was planned for the 2021 model year, but Kia nixed it for the U.S., citing supply issues, and instead prioritized the Niro EV subcompact crossover.
For 2023, the 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine is the only powertrain offered for the Soul. It’s paired with a chain belt-based continuous variable transmission and delivers 147 hp and 132 pound-feet of torque.
The Soul lineup is trimmed to five models: LX, S, EX, GT-Line and GT-Line Tech. The Turbo variant with the 201-hp turbocharged engine and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission has been dropped. The X-Line is also discontinued.
A restyled grille, new fog lights and daytime running lights as well as new turn signals grace the front fascia. The rear features upgraded taillights. New 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels are also available. The GT-Line Tech version gets LED headlamps and taillamps.
The Soul will still offer a two-tone paint option, with two new color combos: Clear White or Surf Blue, both with a Fusion Black roof.
Every trim but the base LX gets a larger 10.25-inch touch screen with navigation. The top-end GT-Line Tech gets upgraded audio with multicolored LED speaker lights, a high-gloss interior finish, heated seats and a dual-level cargo floor.
Standard safety tech across the line includes pedestrian forward collision avoidance assist, lane-keeping assistance, driver attention warning, lane-departure warning, high-beam assist and a rear-occupant alert.
A technology package for the LX adds blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross collision avoidance and 16-inch wheels.
The GT-Line Tech gets forward collision avoidance assistance with junction turning capability, highway drive assist and navigation-based cruise control.