Kia Soul – A Favourite Returns for 2021

The Kia Soul compact SUV returns with a new 2021 model to be released later this year. What we know already is that we shouldn’t be expecting any major changes. This is undoubtedly great news for many, but perhaps disappointing for others hoping to see a bit more change in the new decade.

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What’s new?

The former GT-Line Turbo model has had its name trimmed to simply Kia Soul Turbo for the new year. This also means new badging throughout. The 2021 Kia Soul will also make more available some previously rather exclusive technologies and features. In summary:

• Kia Soul EX and Turbo trim levels will both have remote start as a standard part of their key fob
• X-Line and GT-Line will both now have 2.0L engines and stunning 18” alloys, along with additional RS valves on the shock absorbers.
• All models and trims will come with the Rear Occupant Alert feature
• Great cargo space – 509 litres with the rear seats up, and 1755 litres with the rear seats down

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What does this mean? The name change on the GT-Line Turbo really just means new badging on the grille, wheel, tailgate and so on. These are just cosmetic changes, but perhaps more meaningful is the addition of RS valves to the X-Line and GT-Line shock absorbers. Technical changes can sometimes be lost on the consumer, but the truth is that these components should further enhance ride comfort for driver and passenger.

Still no AWD, but plenty more to love!

Possibly the most disappointing for Kia fans is that the 2021 Kia Soul will still not feature an all-wheel drive option. It’s not 100 percent clear as to why, but we can speculate that perhaps the Soul’s identity as more of an augmented hatchback than a traditional SUV means it isn’t a candidate for AWD.

What’s really great, too is the additional storage space. We shouldn’t forget that even the average sedan has around 450 litres of boot space with the rear seats up. The 2021 Kia Soul will have them beaten, even as a very compact SUV or enlarged hatchback.

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Higher trim levels will also get access to great tech features like the flawless 10.25” touchscreen central display. This will make navigation, media control and other digital functions a breeze. In truth, the standard 7” display is more than adequate for anybody’s needs. Those needing to quickly and easily integrate their smartphone will also be delighted to learn that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be standard on all models.

The end of 2020 brings us the 2021 Soul

The Kia Soul is about bringing fun, adventure and utility all under the same banner. Take advantage of all this great car has to offer when it emerges in late 2020.