2012 Kia Soul Video: First Look at the More Powerful and Efficient Soul

Kiaclub Nieuwsrobot · 27 April, 2011

Get the Flash Player to see this player.

The car the launched Kia‘s transformation from an auto industry back-marker to a legitimate brand, the Soul has received a list of mid-cycle upgrades for 2012.

New front and rear fascias give a cleaner look to the Soul, while a new hood design has also been incorporated, all of which works to give the car a smoother exterior appearance. Perhaps more noticeable are new LED taillights and even LED daytime running lights. Plus, new for 2012 are two additional paint colors, Canyon and Moss. Inside there are some new items depending on trim level, with the biggest news being the UVO Sync-style system for the Soul! and Soul sport, which comes as part of a Premium Package with leather, heated seats, Nav, climate control and a push-button ignition.

The most significant changes come under the hood, however, with a new 1.6-liter direct-injection engine on base models, delivering 135-hp (up 11%) and 121 lb-ft of torque. Thanks also to new six-speed manual transmission, fuel economy is up to 28/34 mpg. Those in search of a bit more pep can upgrade to a 2.0-liter engine that makes 160-hp (up 13%) and 143 lb-ft of torque. Plus, the added power comes with little drawback by way of fuel economy with a rating of 27/33-mpg, with your choice of either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.