What is it?
Kia describes its new Soul as an 'urban crossover'. Although not as large, it shares a similar philosophy to Nissan's Qashqai, a vehicle that Kia is rather keen to make comparisons with. It features tough, almost off-road-like styling, although in actual fact it is front-wheel-drive only and designed primarily for live in urban environs. Although slightly larger than a Nissan Note, it is close to that vehicle in feel, and you could also draw comparisons with MINI's Traveller and Skoda's Roomster.
The Soul name not only refers to spirit, but also the capital city of the Korean company's home country. It is designed to be a vehicle that will break the mould for Kia and take it into new markets. In fact Peter Schreyer, Kia's Chief Design Officer, says that the Soul "will be the first Kia where people will check the colours, trims and accessories before they check the price."
When they do check the price, they will find that it starts at around £11,000 with top spec models costing close to £15,000. One sale from March 2009, a 1.6-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre turbodiesel will be offered initially, with a smaller 1.4 petrol engine arriving later. Three trim levels will be available. There'll be a cheaply priced entry version, which will still have air-con and then a more comprehensively equipped volume seller. Above that will sit what will be known as the Soul Collection. These will be special edition models on sale for a limited period of time only, around six months or so. Externally, they will feature special paint and art graphics reflecting individual themes. For example, some may be aimed exclusively at the female market, while others may reflect an outdoor or even off-road feel. Inside, the cabins will also feature special trim and finish.
