2013 Kia Soul Review: Unreliable Compact SUV With Engine Failures

Sep 15, 2022

The 2013 Kia Soul only lasts around 150,000 miles with a lot of engine failures and battery issues. At $8,238 to $10,399 it’s cheap, yet still not worth the money when engine repairs cost nearly as much as the car.

The Good

Interior is very comfortable with soft seats, the stereo system is powerful with a lot of speakers for its age and the steering is responsive.

The Bad

There’s less cargo space than competitors, suspension is firm with the 18-inch wheels and the transmission is slow to shift between gears.

Is the 2013 Kia Soul a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 4/10 – 2013 is a bad year for the Kia Soul and the widespread engine failures give it a low overall rating. Owner reviews complain about the suspension, motor problems, and issues with the transmission.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are nice for the price of the Kia Soul, the seats are supportive, and cargo space is excellent due to the boxy design.
Reliability 3/10 – Engine failures are widespread on the 2013 Kia Soul. There are a lot of problems with models from 2012–2016, with improvements on 2017–2020
Performance 5/10 – The base 4-cylinder engine is weaker than other SUVs, and the upgraded larger 4-cylinder motor is not much better.
Safety 7/10 – The 2013 Soul gets an overall rating of 4-stars in government crash tests including 4-stars in frontal impact and 5-stars in the side test. There’s no advanced safety technology available, which is available on some competitors.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 28 MPG, which should get owners around 355 miles of range out of the 12.7 gallon gas tank. Fuel costs are $18 lower than average at $182 per month.
Value 4/10 – The Kia Soul is a cheap compact SUV, however, engine failures cost thousands of dollars to replace, making it a terrible value on the used market.

Positive Owner Reviews

Olivia G

Easy to park and reliable transmission.

Really reliable. Have to replace windshield wipers quite a bit but always runs perfectly. Have to check tires frequently. Amazing car for the price and has a lot of interior space. Easy to park because of small size. Has manual option as well. Love this car!

Barb G

A nice car with many features.

My vehicle is very dependable I have not had any major problems. It drives like an SUV I have plenty of room the back seats fold down for more room if needed. I have room enough for my granddaughters car seat I also love how good this car is on gas. The stereo system is great. There are many ports for an iPod, phone charger and more.

Sierra R

The perfect mini family car.

I had an ongoing issue with my car and replaced a few unnecessary parts because I never had any warning lights come on my dashboard. Finally, when I learned it was my crankshaft sensor and replaced it all my problems were solved. Otherwise, this car is great. Amazing on gas. Super comfortable. Compact yet still spacious enough for my little family of 4. It is literally our family car for vacations and long trips because of how efficient it is. The only thing I wish it had were armrests.

Julie C

Kia Soul is fun to drive!

Love my Soul! So fun to drive. Very comfortable and roomy, too! I feel safe in it. I do wish that it had more power, though.

Kayla L

Great car wonderful value!

My car has been very reliable no major mechanical problems. I get decent gas mileage. Plenty of room for our family of four. Comfortable ride and affordable price. I would gladly upgrade and get the same model again in the future. It handles great in the snow and I feel very safe. Maintenance has been affordable and handling is great.

Stephanie G

Small but big. Good for dogs!

I love the Kia Soul cause it's small and fits into spots well but on the inside it's big and roomy. Dog loves it!

David E

Kia Soul, a nice ride for a great price.

Very spacious for a smaller vehicle. Rides comfortably. No major problems after two years of ownership. The only problem is the difficulty of changing headlights. Some minor electrical issues that causes the low tire pressure light to stay on. Equipped with Bluetooth and other modern features. Great gas mileage.

Heather G

Green, compact, but bigger on the inside.

Great car, has a large trunk so you can move a lot of stuff and big items, smooth to drive, and comfortably sits 3 people in the back. I have driven around 50 hours in it on trips and was still comfortable when I got to my destination, it's also great on gas.

Negative Owner Reviews

Bre I

Not an option if you are tall and need a car seat. Only one car seat will fit.

Not car seat friendly. One car seat on right passenger side gives no front seat leg space. No way to have more than one car seat and be able to drive comfortably. Car has blind spots on both sides due to the small cut out windows in back. Cargo space is small, barely fits stroller.

Meg L

It's a stick shift so you can't drive it if you don't know how

It is a stick shift which I don't like and it doesn't do well in the snow and the check engine light is always on

Linds M

6 speed transmissions failed.

Transmission started having problems on day 1. I took the vehicle back several times throughout the time I had the vehicle and they continually stated that there was nothing wrong with it. . By the end I had to drive the vehicle in manual because it would not shift up or down when it was supposed to. I finally took it to a dealership and told them I would not leave with this vehicle.

Bianca W

Recalls, replacements and repairs.

I have replaced just about everything on my car after only 2 years of owning it; new brakes, new tires, multiple sets of windshield wipers. And the list could go on. There is also a recall on my vehicle as it is. I have not been notified of what actions I have after this recall which states that the engine has a high chance of catching fire.

Melissa C

Not a nice car from Kia they have better cars.

I just do not like how it looks. And people make fun of it and call it a mouse car or a hamster car. It is to small and I always have problems with the tiers I paid to much for it and it is to red in color the interior fabric is hard to clean. I hate the way it drives.

Renee B

The interesting details about my car is the rear view camera.

The car is low and when you hit any type of bump you feel it intensely. The car is small so I wouldn't suggest buying if you have children... However, the car is great on gas and has luxurious interior. I have heated leather seats, touchscreen monitor, rear view camera, the speakers light up, and I have a sunroof!

Courtney A

Never buy a Kia unless your old and go nowhere

It sounds like your in a box, it echoes. Can't go far on a tank of gas because tank is so small. Can't go many places because it gets stuck super easy. It's not a family spacious vehicle

Jessica B

It is not comfortable to drive. The seats are too hard.

I find that it is a reliable car. It is however ugly. It is not a comfortable car. This was the best car in my price range at the time.

What Do Critics Say About the Kia Soul?

Consumer Reports says the Kia Soul is very noisy in the cabin, with lower than average owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds gives the 2013 Kia Soul a 4.3/5 praising the passenger space, but doesn’t like the small cargo room.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Soul a 4.5/5 and enjoy the good fuel economy, but owners don’t like the low ground clearance.

What Common Problems Does the 2013 Kia Soul Have?

The most common problems found on the 2013 Kia Soul include engine failures, excessive battery drain, and clunky steering. Overall, these problems are more severe than other small SUVs from 2013, and they make ownership costs higher as well.

Engine failures are the most widespread complaint from owners, showing up at around 100,000 miles. The entire engine seizes up in a lot of Soul models and the only way to fix it is to replace the entire engine. A new engine assembly costs about $5,000, depending on local labor rates.

Excessive battery drain is another issue reported by owners which shows up at around 50,000 miles. The main source of the problem is usually caused by a computer issue which stays on after the car is off. Replacing the computer costs around $800.

Clunky steering noises also show up on a lot of Kia Soul models at around 60,000 miles. The steering column comes loose as it ages, and the only way to fix it is to install a new one. Changing out the steering column costs around $750, depending on local labor rates.

There are 2 recalls, better than other SUVs from 2013. The most serious recall is for the catalytic converter, which can overheat and cause the engine to get too hot as well. Kia will replace the catalytic converter in affected Soul models. The other recall is for the headliner, and is not a serious mechanical issue.

How Long Will the 2013 Kia Soul Last?

A well-maintained 2013 Kia Soul will last around 150,000 miles, which is only half as long as top-rated competitors like the Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs slightly higher than average at around $423 per year, according to data provided by Repair Pal.

Since most used 2013 Kia Soul models will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the oil pan gasket for $425, A/C pressure switch costing $325, and the intake manifold gasket which costs $430.

Patrice L

The Kia soul is probably the most reliable car I have ever owned, I have yet to have a single major issue.

Ashley N

It is plastic so weather is hard on it clips dry rot and pop off. I wish it was more sturdy. Also have trouble with the windows. If you close the door to hard the window pane falls off track. Both front doors do this.

Ashlynn C

There are no problems. This is the most reliable car that I have. It travels hundreds of miles easily.

Tracy S

Yes it is very reliable! I have not had any problems with it. I had a recall on it. I made an appointment and it was fixed within a few hours.

Arianna G

It has no problems. I have had this car for almost 3 years and it has not had any issues that couldn't easily be fixed.

Tami W

Very reliable. I love my car. One of the best on the market. Wouldn't trade it for the world. Buy Kia it's great.

Brad B

Very reliable. No major problems. Really placed original battery after 6 years. Brake job after 5 years.

Shelley T

Yes. Very reliable. I have never had a problem with it since I purchased in 2013. It starts right up in our cold winter weather here in Pennsylvania.

How Is the Technology?

Technology in the 2013 Kia Soul is good for its price, and the upgraded 8-speaker stereo system is one of the most powerful offered in a compact SUV. There’s no advanced safety technology available, which is found in some competitors.

Is the 2013 Kia Soul a Good Value?

No, the 2013 Kia Soul is not a good value since they have high ownership costs. Blue book prices range from $8,238 to $10,399, making it cheaper than other similarly equipped SUVs including the Honda CR-V and Toyota Matrix. When new, the price range was $14,400 to $19,900. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Kia Soul?

There are three models of the Kia Soul offered for 2013, and they include the entry-level Base, slightly nicer “Soul+”, and the flagship model “Soul!”.

Base is the entry-level model with:

15-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Power Windows & Locks
Bluetooth Connectivity
4-Speaker Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX & USB

Soul+ is a step up, adding:

16-Inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Steering Wheel
Faux-Metallic Interior Trim
Rearview Camera
8-Speaker Stereo System With Speaker Lights

Soul! is the top-of the line model and adds:

18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Sunroof
Two-Tone Upholstery
Optional Leather Seating
Optional Heated Seats

Base

138 HP 27 MPG

View Details

164 HP 25-26 MPG

View Details

164 HP 25-26 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Kia Soul?

The standard engine is a weak 1.6L 4-cylinder which only makes 138 horsepower and gets up to 28 MPG.
An optional upgrade is the slightly stronger 2.0L 4-cylinder which generates 164 horsepower and gets up to 26 MPG. Performance is still poor, taking 8.8 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Kia Soul Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Kia Soul?

The 2013 Kia Soul is comfortable for a compact SUV with enough room for up to 5 people. The seats are very comfortable and the available 2-tone houndstooth cloth seating looks nicer than many other small SUVs.

Passenger room is good throughout the cabin with enough space for adults to fit in the backseats, and the boxy design gives more headroom than many competitors.

How Is the Storage In the Kia Soul?

Cargo space is lower than other compact SUVs on the market due to the shorter wheelbase. There’s enough space for 4-5 suitcases behind the back seats, and up to 10 with the back seats folded flat.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The first generation of the Kia Soul was introduced in 2010, and was replaced by the second generation in 2014.

2010: Launch of the first generation of the Kia Soul.

2011: Improved shocks and brakes, push button start, and new door handles.

2012: More powerful engine added, new transmission, and minor styling updates.

2013: Bluetooth added for the stereo system.

2014: Second generation fully redesigned with all new interior & exterior.

2015: Uvo stereo system added to all models, and standard rearview camera.

How Does the Kia Soul Compare to the Competition?

The Kia Soul is a bad compact SUV since there are so many serious engine problems, making it one to avoid. We recommend models from 2017–2020, which are much more reliable.

The Honda Fit is a popular competitor which costs about $1,600 more. Passenger room is better in the Honda Fit, however, the Kia Soul offers a more fun driving experience with better handling. We recommend the Honda Fit since they last significantly longer and have lower ownership costs.

The Subaru Crosstrek is another small SUV which costs around $6,000 more. All-wheel-drive performance is much better in the Subaru Crosstrek, while the Kia Soul has a smoother suspension for driving around town. We recommend avoiding both SUVs for 2013 since the Kia Soul has engine problems and the Subaru Crosstrek has steering issues.

Ranks #6 Compact SUV by Owners

2013 MINI Countryman

4.56

Tie

2013 Scion xB

4.54

2013 Kia Soul

4.42

Do Owners Recommend the Kia Soul?

Patrice L

Yes. The Kia soul is a very good car. Perfect size for one person and great on gas. I use it to commute over 30 miles each way to work and I have never had a major problem.

Ashley N

Yes, very reliable. My car has moved me and my children three times. I say it has the heart of an s10. I wish I would have gotten leather interior and chose a color other than black. As far as driving the only thing I have done is kept up the basic maintenance on the car and she gets me where I need to go!

Ashlynn C

Yes, this vehicle is a great vehicle. And it is also great on gas. The car is reliable and safe. The car is big enough to hold a big dog and three other people. There has not been any issues that I have experienced with my car.

Tracy S

Yes!! It is absolutely fantastic!! It gets great gas mileage. It is great for road trips. It is a smooth ride.

Arianna G

Yes it is. It has great gas mileage low cost for upkeep and enough room for me and two kids. It has help up really well.

Tami W

Yes amazing and drives well. It's the best SUV on the market. I would recommend to friends and family.

Brad B

An excellent vehicle to drive and maintain. Good mileage. Great handling and fun. Lots of room. Looks and feels good.

Shelley T

Absolutely! I love it! Never any problems and suits my needs perfectly! I enjoy driving it everyday.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Jess H on June 25, 2021

Perfect for our little family and dog.

I purchased my soul when my son was an infant so the back seat is very flat (for the car seat I had at the time) and roomy. I am almost 6 ft tall so I had to have something with a lot of leg and head room. The front seats are wide enough that they are comfortable when you have on all winter clothing and all as well. This is also my first hatch back and I will never go back to a regular trunk ever!

Carl H on June 19, 2021

Great little car that is better than you think!

Very frugal when it comes to gas. More room than you would expect given the size of the car. I have noticed that there are many of these cars on the road. Good car, not expensive, and will last for decades. I have also noticed that Kia is one of the new 'favorites' among young people and people in my age group.

Amanda O on June 18, 2021

2013 white Kia soul great zoom around town car as well as a roadtripper!

I love my car! It drives like a sedan but has the space of a small SUV. It is great for the dog and for road trips. It gets pretty good gas mileage I would say. I have had it for just about 5 years now and haven't had any major issues which is great! There was a recall on it and they took care of it for me.

Arthur R on June 17, 2021

My soul. Living with a Kia. Has been a great success.

Steering wheel issue finally fixed. Otherwise very good maintenance. Has been very reliable and low maintenance. Comfortable with plenty of space. Kia's dealer have not been helpful but have an outstanding mechanic. Would certainly purchase another soule. Gas mileage is not good.

Roger J on June 14, 2021

It is a alien green color.

It is has been a good car. Has had recalls and light problems. Sometimes has a tough go at hills and there is not a ton of space but we have 2 kids now which we didn’t have when we bought it. Other than that it has been a good reliable car we have had it for 5 years.

Kiana J on June 8, 2021

My car is very well on gas and has plenty of space to move around in.

My engine sometimes cuts in and off, but it is very good in gas. My vehicle also has an eco mode to help save gas. Cruise control is very helpful as well. I would recommend this car to anyone who loves to save money. The interior of the vehicle is very spacious.

Michelle M on June 5, 2021

Wonderful pretend little car.

Great on gas mileage, comfortable, smooth ride, not too many bells and whistles, just enough. The trunk has surprisingly a lot of space. I took three people across the country in it, and it was easy, comfortable, and the gas was phenomenal. I would ask they get better paint. My car is only a few years old and the paint is very faded.

Ashley W on June 4, 2021

2013 red Kia soul!, Bluetooth, front-wheel drive, 4 cylinders, and 27 mpg.

I truly haven't experienced any problems with my Kia soul that weren't my fault. It is a great car and although it looks small on the outside it can fit many things on the inside. I have run over a few curbs and popped a few tires but that is not the cars fault it is my driving instructors. My favorite thing about my car is probably the Bluetooth feature because it makes it super easy and convenient to play music and answer phone calls. In addition to this, it gets about 30 highway mpg which is pretty good. I did have to get the a new car battery once for it but it was understandable because car batteries only last around three years. The seats are very comfy and I like how high the car sits. The only other negative about it is it is front-wheel drive so it could be better in the snow.

Jamie E on May 30, 2021

Perfect for short people with no more than 1 kid.

The alignment needs to be adjusted every now and then. It is not really made for y’all people with children. The seats could be a little wider. Although, the car is extremely easy to park and the breaks last a long time. The emergency compartment in the trunk comes in handy for tools.

Mary J on May 29, 2021

Cute small family SUV that offers functionality and style.

The Kia soul is the perfect car for any family of 4. It has the room of a full size SUV especially in leg room. I have not had any performance issues. It can climb hills at a good speed. It is really simple to change the oil. Only takes about 15 minutes. The only downside is the trunk is on the small side so you have to get creative with the luggage. Also does not hold a lot of groceries. The headlights are cheap and fall out after a while of driving the car. This is overall a great car/small SUV and it is cute.

Polly E on May 26, 2021

Best little car on the road!

This car is the best car ever! Even for the big guy this car is easy to get in and out of. It is an easy care vehicle that performs well. I was thinking this car would be an alternate, but this is our main vehicle. Only one drawback- trunk is too small. But considering everything else it'll do.

Steph V on May 23, 2021

What a great, everyday car.

Love the car. It is a great size to drive around things and pets, it is also helpful when moving house. It is a great everyday car. The gas mileage is good too, average around 25-30 miles per gallon. I have not had any major issues, only with the battery, but that was from normal use.

Caitlin C on May 22, 2021

Kia soul is a very good car to own and it is my favorite car I have owned.

It has cool led lights in the dashboard. The mileage is really good, gas is cheap and lasts. Smooth driving, good breaks. Not the best tires. It is very comfortable and also the rearview mirror has a really cool blinding feature from headlights behind.

Shay R on May 22, 2021

Shape and size. It is comfortable to be in. Very spacious.

I have been having my car now for 6 years and it is by far the best car I have ever owned. It is comfortable, perfect size! Spacious. The only major thing that has happened is the alternator went out, but was replaced for free under warranty. My radio has also been out for a while, because of the alternator. It does not bother me, I have a speaker for music.

Norma M on May 18, 2021

Kia soul has nice economic system to help you save gas and very comfortable.

I love my Kia soul car. It is not too small or too big. It just right plenty of room. It does very good in gas. It runs very smooth. I have not had any problems with my Kia. I recommend this car to anyone. I recommend my sister to buy a soul Kia and bought one 8 months ago. She is so happy with the car. The color is jet black and has a real nice stereo system. The car also automatic turns off and on when the car is at a stoplight. This helps to conserve gas.

Lexa H on May 4, 2021

My good little cube (Kia soul).

My car is pretty good! It is lasted over five years, and counting. I inhabited it from my dad, and he said it was realizable enough for to get from home all the way to the city (which is a good 20 odd miles away). Gas mileage is okay. Not the best I have seen, but definitely not the worst. And I love the compact little shape it is got. Overall, I love my car. It is been with me through everything. The only downside is the small was of it.

Quenton S on May 1, 2021

The most reliable car I have driven.

This car has been nothing short but reliable, I have never found myself on the side of the road or in a bind because of my vehicle. It has had one battery replacement in 7 years, which was last year. This car performs well in the winter and all seasons, has great a/c and heat. The speaker system is also very impressive.

Jessica A on April 29, 2021

Sometimes runs smooth and takes where I need to go.

Reliable but sometimes have trouble starting, interior is mildly maintained but not up to date technology. Also there are several scrapes and scratches on the outside it overall it gets me where I need to be so for now it's okay I guess. I wish I could just upgrade but I owe more than what the cars even worth so I don't see that happening in the near future.

ANN B on April 21, 2021

Let me tell you about my soul!

I love it, the mileage is great. It handles well and I definitely recommend it and will buy another one.We have never had any problems with it; we take it to be serviced,change oil and filters and check tires ( usually have tires rotated). It will out-perform any vehicle we've had in the past. Many people approach me when I am loading groceries in the trunk and want to know how I like it because they are thinking about buying one,. And I honestly tell them I love it.

Emily L on April 18, 2021

Good price with good quality.

I think the reliability of the vehicle is what I like the most. I know that the brand Kia lasts a long time and has good reviews. When looking for a car I watched the size to be pretty small, yet still have enough room in the back sweat and hatch. Something that I did not know was a feature of the car when I first bought it that I now enjoy is the lights it has around the speakers. The lights can match with the music making a fun experience when driving with friends.

Melissa C on April 17, 2021

Not a nice car from Kia they have better cars.

Kayla L on April 17, 2021

Great car wonderful value!

Sierra W on April 9, 2021

It has a nice color and its reliable.

The performance of this vehicle is fairly good. At has a quick get-up-and-go. It is a very reliable vehicle. Great for a family. However if you do have a larger car seat for your child it is a little tight. The car has nice features like Bluetooth hands free. I would like it to have automatic headlights but it does not.

Karina H on April 9, 2021

The perfect travel companion, reliable, affordable and cute.

My 2013 Kia soul is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. Although on the outside it looks very small it is quite comfortable and seats for people with enough leg room. I am able to drive it all up and down the coast of California and have never once had an issue. It performs very well no matter the roads we drive.

Delores S on April 4, 2021

It has been dependable with very few repairs.

I like the size. It is dependable with very few repairs other than recommended maintenance. I really have no dislikes.

Rebecca K on April 3, 2021

My Kia Soul review and costs for maintaining it.

No problem with the car. Great on gas. The car has an awesome turn radius. The seats are not so comfy but it does the job. Tires are relatively cheap for this module, brakes are on par as far as pricing. The car heats up quickly on cold days. The price of a replacement battery is up there. Too bad it didn't have auto headlights.

Sierra R on April 1, 2021

The perfect mini family car.

Sondra M on April 1, 2021

Complaints and loving my car.

I love my vehicle except the seating in drivers. Could be more comfortable. And adjustable. Also needs to be a spare tire as well. Even if put on back of vehicle. I have not been comfortable with not having a spare since owning this car. And I am a one owner of this car.

Alyssa W on April 1, 2021

It has a lot of room and gets great gas mileage.

I like that I get great gas mileage. I do not like that sometimes my air vents blow out a bad smell according to the weather. No complaints.

Nicholas M on March 31, 2021

The Kia soul, a reliable great car.

The car has not had any real problems since we've had it, works fine and is very reliable. The interior is very comfortable and the layout is logical and allows for good performance. Also runs without making a lot of noise. Couldn't be happier with the car. I would recommend the brand to someone else and would buy again from them in the future.

Maddie J on March 31, 2021

Small and compact but very spacious and reliable.

Drives really smooth, never had any problems with it in the 5 years I have had it! Small and compact but also very spacious on the inside! Engine runs smoothly and car sounds nice when driving! I have rented windows. The seats are comfortable. It is small but it can hold 5 people. The beat is huge for luggage and other things as needed.

Ken S on March 30, 2021

I bought it for its style but have found it to be an excellent car with regard to performance and maintenance. I didn't buy it because it was inexpensive.

Low maintenance. Runs like new. Seems to be durable.

Ashlyn S on March 29, 2021

This car is great for road trips!

This is the first care I have ever owned, and it was the best investment I have made! I have driven this car cross country several times, and I have never had and problems with it! Very comfortable for long trips, and the speakers are wonderful! I love just driving around and getting lost in this car!

Char C on March 29, 2021

Great sporty and family car! All in one!

It is a great car! Not a lot of problems with it at all! Great gas mileage. Lights up to the radio!Low maintenance. Very comfortable, it is also great for moving! Holds a lot more than you think!Performance is great as well! You can drive an automatic or standard.

Austin K on March 28, 2021

Kia soul is a great hip car for a college student.

I was unsure about the Kia soul but between the looks of the car, the performance on the road, and the comfortability inside the car, it is perfect for me. Not to mention the great gas mileage and benefits of having a small hatchback. The Kia soul is great for a young college student or a small family.

Alexandrea D on March 28, 2021

It has a lot of room for shopping trips to Costco, Ikea, or home improvement stores. But yet is easy to drive.

It is the right size for us. Surprising amount of room for both people and storage. Love that the seats fold down, for many different usage. Great on gas. My husband does bot like the seats, to hard on his back for long car rides.

krystal H on March 28, 2021

I love my Kia! Great family car and I love the size!

Nothing wrong with it at all! Never had any issues with the car. Fun little car to drive. Drives smooth. Shifts with no issues. Love the size and not a gas guzzler. Great family car. Love Kia! They been good to me and my family. Would definitely recommend them to everyone!

James F on March 28, 2021

Extremely durable. Good gas mileage. Comfortable and roomy

It's a small family car but not too small. Very comfortable both In regards to the ride itself and the interior. Room enough for my 2 year old daughter in her carseat rear facing in the back

Isiah V on March 26, 2021

It is a box car with four doors and it is a hatchback.

Great cafe overall, pretty good gas mileage. It may not be the prettiest car, or the ‘manliest’ car, but it is reliable. Kia is also pretty helpful, and usually going to the dealership is a pleasant experience. The only downside to the car is that it is not heavy duty, and it is not the coolest shape.

Bridget L on March 25, 2021

It's very safe. Good on gas and drives amazingly well.

The mileage and how comfortable it is. It looks stylish.... I wish it had more cup holders. I also wish the cruise control worked all the time..

Viola S on March 25, 2021

Kia soul; family toaster of cars; sum we all love but goes under appreciated.

I have had my Kia soul for quite some time now and it still runs like new. It is one of my favorite cars I have ever owned. Extremely affordable, and nicely compact so student drivers work well in it. It is also compatible with sxm which is a huge plus for music lovers.

Victoria L on March 24, 2021

The soul's engine is more than adequate for a car with its curb weight. It cruises comfortably at 70MPH, and is responsive when called on to go faster.

I love the Soul's roomy passenger compartment, responsive engine--it's quick off the mark and easily maintains highway speeds--and window placement, which affords excellent line of sight. The seats, however, are not very comfortable, it is difficult to adjust the headrest so that it doesn't force my head forward, and the MPG is lower slightly lower than advertised.

Taylor K on March 24, 2021

It has very good gas mileage and reliable. It is compact and works.

I like that it is newer. But I don't like the style of it or the quality or brand.

Jasmine N on March 23, 2021

Lots of legroom, great mpg and great for road trips.

The only problem I have had, is that the wires are soy-based. The first month, after I purchased my vehicle, a rodent chewed up my wiring harness. Its spacious and great on gas. I average 29 mpg. I have put over 10,000 miles on it this year and it is been fantastic. Another con, is that the base model didn't come with a console. You can order one for pretty cheap.

Yvonne B on March 23, 2021

The Kia soul--a good basic car for driving around town, but not for long hauls.

It is a basic model that we originally bought for our daughter. So, no CD player, which I miss. The engine could be stronger. It has no fancy screen to use like on the newer models. It is good to drive, easy to use, but no real seat adjustments like I have had in other models.

Karen S on March 22, 2021

Great vehicle at a great price.

This is a great vehicle at a great price. It is easy to get into and get out of. Great fuel mileage. It also has very few blind spots. I can fit so much into it with the back seat down. It is utilitarian and comfortable. It is small enough to maneuver easily and large enough to feel solid and comfortable.

Deb S on March 22, 2021

They should know about The roominess in the front.

I like the roominess in the front. The height is great for getting in and out. I like the way it handles when parking. The only think that I don't like is the rough ride. They need to do something that.

Breanna J on March 21, 2021

The back compartment falls in if you put to heavy of stuff on it.

It is great car, good on gas. No mechanical issues. Runs smooth and is a good vehicle to get me everywhere I need to go from week to week.

Zakee E on March 21, 2021

Great affordable car that will not let you down.

It is a great car I have no complaints. It is great on gas and gets me to and from my destination. It is a great car if you have a family. Has enough room for car seats and has leg space for taller passenger. I have driven the car on many roads trips and it has not given me any problems at all. Got the car for a great price and it is very affordable for the upkeep of the vehicle. Overall I love the vehicle and would recommend it to anyone.

Tom W on March 20, 2021

Great looking vehicle that performs with excellence.

Like the mileage the car gets. Also like the overall performance of the car, as well as the comfortable ride. Dislike the rough ride when going over railroad tracks, very hard and bumpy.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.