2020 Kia Soul Review: The Urban Hatchback That Keeps Its Quirky Soul

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Evolution of an Icon: Third-Generation Soul Refines the Formula

The 2020 model year marks a significant milestone for the Kia Soul as it enters its third generation. This complete redesign builds upon the model's successful formula while addressing previous shortcomings. The new Soul rides on an updated platform that delivers improved driving dynamics and refinement, yet maintains the practical dimensions and functionality that have made it popular with urban dwellers and first-time car buyers.

While competitors like the Nissan Cube and Scion xB have disappeared from the market, the Soul has not only survived but thrived. It now faces competition from newer entrants like the Nissan Kicks and Toyota C-HR, along with the upcoming Hyundai Venue. What sets the Soul apart is its winning combination of distinctive styling, surprising interior space, and Kia's renowned value proposition.

Trim Level Simplification

Kia has streamlined the Soul's trim structure for 2020, replacing the previous quirky naming convention (+ and !) with more traditional LX, S, X-Line, EX, GT-Line, and GT-Line Turbo designations. This change makes it easier for buyers to understand the model hierarchy while maintaining the Soul's distinctive character.

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Exterior Design: Bold New Face With Familiar Silhouette

The 2020 Soul's exterior represents an evolution of its iconic boxy shape rather than a revolution. The most noticeable change comes at the front, where the previous model's cheerful "smiling" grille has been replaced with a more aggressive, angular design featuring:

• Slim, squinting daytime running lights connected by a distinctive "unibrow" trim piece
• A trapezoidal grille that creates a determined, almost scowling expression
• Headlights repositioned to lower bumper openings where fog lights might typically reside

The X-Line trim adds rugged styling cues with additional body cladding that subtly breaks up the vehicle's slab-sided profile. At the rear, the design maintains the Soul's signature flat roof but features a wider, lower liftgate for improved accessibility. The taillights now wrap around nearly the entire rear window, creating a more cohesive design element.

Standout Design Features

• "Floating roof" effect created by a body-colored Soul logo bisecting the rear pillar
• Available two-tone roof colors on select trims for added personalization
• 18-inch alloy wheels available on higher trim levels
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Interior: Thoughtful Upgrades Enhance Comfort and Tech

Step inside the 2020 Soul, and you'll immediately notice the improvements over the previous generation. The tall, boxy shape continues to pay dividends in interior space, offering:

• Exceptional headroom throughout the cabin
• Chair-like seating positions that provide excellent visibility
• Rear seat accommodations that rival some compact SUVs

The front seats have been slightly enlarged and feature improved bolstering compared to the outgoing model. While still firm, they provide adequate comfort for daily commuting. The rear seat stands out in this class with generous legroom and a comfortable seatback angle that accommodates adults surprisingly well.

Interior Materials and Design

Kia has elevated the Soul's interior materials while maintaining its value positioning:

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Powertrain Options: From Efficient to Energetic

The 2020 Soul offers two distinct engine choices to suit different driving preferences and budgets:

Standard 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder

• 147 horsepower (down from previous 161 hp but with improved torque delivery)
• Peppier around-town performance than previous 2.0-liter engine
• EPA-estimated 27/33/30 mpg city/highway/combined
• Available with six-speed manual (base LX only) or CVT automatic

GT-Line Turbo 1.6-Liter Four-Cylinder

• 201 horsepower for spirited performance
• Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
• EPA-estimated 27/32/29 mpg city/highway/combined
• Paddle shifters for manual control
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Driving Dynamics: Playful Handling With Urban Agility

The 2020 Soul's driving experience represents one of its most significant improvements. The new platform delivers:

• Precise, direct steering with appropriate weight for urban driving
• Surprisingly flat cornering for a tall vehicle
• Excellent maneuverability in tight city spaces

While the suspension tuning leans toward the firm side to control body motions, it results in a sometimes busy ride over rough pavement. The GT-Line Turbo's sport-tuned suspension enhances handling further but trades some ride comfort in the process.

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Technology and Safety Features

The 2020 Soul brings significant tech upgrades while maintaining Kia's reputation for value:

Infotainment Systems

• Standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 10.25-inch widescreen display with navigation
• Harman Kardon premium audio available on GT-Line Turbo

Safety Technology

Advanced safety features vary significantly by trim level:

• Forward automatic braking (available on most trims)
• Lane keep assist (available on most trims)
• Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert (available)
• Adaptive cruise control (GT-Line Turbo only)
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Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2020 Soul continues to deliver exceptional value across its trim range:

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Competitive Landscape

The 2020 Soul competes in a segment that blends subcompact hatchbacks and small SUVs:

Key Competitors

• Nissan Kicks: Lower starting price but less power and refinement
• Toyota C-HR: More coupe-like styling reduces practicality
• Hyundai Kona: Available AWD but higher price point
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Final Recommendation

The 2020 Kia Soul represents one of the best values in the subcompact segment, offering:

• Distinctive styling that stands out from the crowd
• Surprisingly spacious and versatile interior
• Improved driving dynamics over previous generations
• Kia's excellent warranty coverage

For most buyers, the mid-range X-Line or EX trims with the standard 2.0-liter engine offer the best balance of features and value. The GT-Line Turbo delivers entertaining performance but enters a more competitive price bracket where alternatives like the Volkswagen Golf GTI may appeal to driving enthusiasts.