Overview

What's New for 2013:

• Updated Kia badges
• Standard Bluetooth
• Expanded color availability

Exterior Features
The Kia Soul is a 5-door hatchback sold in base, Plus (+) and Exclaim (!) trim levels. All versions include dark-tinted rear privacy glass, like a crossover SUV has, while the Plus variant adds aluminum wheels as well as heated power side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators. The Exclaim trim level also has LED running lights and projector-beam headlights.

Interior Features
Every 2013 Soul is equipped with air conditioning, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, USB port, auxiliary audio input jack, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, and a height-adjustable driver's seat. The Plus trim adds cruise control, a better sound system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, additional storage and lighting provisions, and metal-finish cabin trim. The Exclaim version comes with a premium Infinity sound system that features pulsing speaker lighting, Microsoft UVO smartphone pairing technology, and unique seat fabric.

Optional Features
Base models can be upgraded with power side mirrors, cruise control, floor mats, and a handful of additional features. The Soul Plus is available with the same Infinity premium sound system and smartphone pairing technology as the Soul Exclaim, as well as a power sunroof. Soul Exclaim models can be exclusively outfitted with leather, navigation, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a Smart Key entry system with push-button starting.

Under the Hood
Kia offers a choice of two engines for the 2013 Soul. The base model is equipped with a 138-horsepower, 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. The Soul Plus and Soul Exclaim are equipped with a stronger, 164-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine.

A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard on base and Soul Plus trims, with a 6-speed automatic transmission available as an option. The automatic is standard on the Soul Exclaim.

Fuel Economy
The EPA has not finalized fuel-economy estimates for the 2013 Kia Soul as this overview is written.

Safety
Kia equips the 2013 Soul with 6 air bags, 4-wheel-disc anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, and a traction and stability control system. Hill-start assist is also standard.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the 2013 Kia Soul a 4-star (out of 5 stars) overall crash-test rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not rated the 2013 Soul as this overview is written. However, the essentially identical 2012 model was named a "Top Safety Pick" by the Institute.