Video Summary
The Kia Soul EV features power-folding mirrors and advanced climate control.The vehicle has class-leading driving range and interior space.
The Soul EV seems more refined than its gasoline counterparts.
The electric version of the Kia Soul has selectable steering modes.
The normal setting for the steering is softer.
The vehicle’s handling is liked more than that of the gasoline Soul and benefits from the weight.
The 27-kilowatt-hour lithium battery provides an EPA rating of 93 miles of range.
The electric motor delivers 109 horsepower and 210 foot-pounds of torque.
0-60 miles per hour takes about 11 seconds.
The turning circle is 34.8 feet.
The Navigation system’s 8-inch touch screen can easily locate charging stations.
There are three ways to charge the Soul EV: level 1, level 2, and DC fast charging.
Level 1 charging at 110 volts can take an entire day for a complete fill.
Level 2 charging at 220 volts is rated at four to five hours.
DC fast charging is rated at 33 minutes to 80% full.
There is a heated leather-covered steering wheel.
Leather-covered driver and passenger bucket seats are featured with three-level seat heating and ventilation.
The HVAC system has a driver-only mode to conserve electricity.
The six-speaker audio system features dash-mounted tweeters.
There are two 12-volt outlets at the base of the dash, a USB input, and another 12-volt outlet in the cargo area.
There are downloadable apps with the UVO system including built-in apps Yelp and Pandora.
Sirus XM data includes traffic and weather.
The rear seating area is remarkably spacious with 39.5 inches of headroom, 36 inches of legroom, 54.7 inches of shoulder room, and 49.3 inches of hip room.
There are two bottle holders in the rear doors, and two-level heated rear seats.
There are no cup holders, a 12-volt outlet, or USB in the rear.
The cargo area has a cover and net.
There is 18.8 cubic feet of storage with the seats up and 49.5 cubic feet of storage with the rear seat folded down.
A hidden cubby area is used for the 110-volt charge cord.
Compared to the BMW i3 and Chevy Spark EV, the Kia lags in performance, but is superior to the Nissan Leaf in practicality, cabin space, and cargo capacity.
The Soul EV presents a compelling package, as long as the styling is acceptable.
