2023 Kia Soul

The entry-level Soul LX starts the lineup with 16-inch steel wheels, automatic halogen headlights, power-adjustable side mirrors, a rear windshield wiper, and rear privacy glass. Step up to the S for 16-inch alloy wheels or to the EX for 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, and heated side exterior mirrors. The GT-Line is up next with 18-inch alloy wheels, body-colored side mirrors with integrated turn signals, a chrome-tipped center exhaust outlet, fog lights, and unique front and rear bumpers. The GT-Line Technology Package adds to the GT-Line with LED exterior lighting.

Power for the 2023 Soul comes from one source. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine puts out 147 horsepower and delivers 132 pound-feet of torque. It works with Kia's continuously variable automatic transmission, and it comes with front-wheel drive. The powertrain will propel the Soul up to 60 mph in about eight seconds and has just the right amount of pep for getting around town.

The Soul provides a smooth ride over most roads, and it is easy to handle and maneuver. The suspension does an excellent job of soaking up road imperfections for a comfortable feeling behind the wheel. It will simulate gear shifting almost like a conventional transmission.

There's room for up to five in the Soul. It comes standard with cloth upholstery and a 60/40-split rear seat. The S adds a power-adjustable driver's seat, and you'll get heated front seats in the EX. Simulated leather comes in the GT-Line, along with a sporty flat-bottomed steering wheel. Stepping up from the base to the S gets you a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment display, along with two USB ports. All models have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the GT-Line with the Technology Package has a Harman Kardon stereo and multi-color LED accent lighting that pulse in time with the music.

Every 2023 Kia Soul has several advanced driver safety aids. The list includes forward collision warning, automatic braking, automatic high beam headlights, a rear occupant alert system that notifies the driver if someone gets left behind in the back seat, and a driver attention warning system that alerts the driver if it senses fatigue. Lane departure mitigation is another standard safety feature in all trims while bumping up to the S adds a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist is available, along with an electronic parking brake.