More Soul for Kia's Compact Crossover

June 26 2012 at 04:27pm
By IOL Motoring Staff

Entire range gets a subtle facelift and new 2.0 version sports LED daytime running lights and 18-inch wheels.

From the outset Kia's Soul crossover set itself apart for being a somewhat funky and distinctive take on the small car market so there's no surprise that the facelift just released in South Africa sports little in the way of visual alteration.

But Kia has certainly injected more soul beneath the bonnet, with the familiar and only-average-performing 1.6-litre engine now joined by a 2-litre petrol motor.

The 1999cc engine puts out 122kW at 6500rpm and 200Nm from 4800rpm and it's mated to either a manual or automatic transmission, both sporting six cogs. Kia claims it'll pounce from 0-100km/h in just 9.2 seconds in automatic form.

The 95kW/157Nm 1.6-litre petrol engine continues to be offered, in manual and automatic form.

HOPE YOU LIKE LED LIGHTS

As mentioned, the styling changes are subtle, but they do include new light clusters at both ends, redesigned bonnet and updated side mirrors and wheels. The 2-litre model is further distinguished by bespoke projector headlights as well as 18-inch alloys and daytime running lights and taillights that use LEDs. What's more, all models feature a range of upgraded materials.

On the standard features front, the 1.6 model packs air conditioning, electric windows, MP3/USB/iPod sound system, Bluetooth, rear park assist and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The 2.0 adds keyless remote entry with flip key, automatic climate control, cruise control (only on the auto), electric folding side mirrors, rear-view camera, leather seats, automatic lights and an upgraded sound system complete with an external amplifier and subwoofer.

Safety-wise, the 1.6 sports front, side and curtain airbags as well as ABS and electronic stability control while the 2.0 adds hill-start assist and Vehicle Stability Management.

PRICES

1.6 manual - R193 995

1.6 auto - R203 995

2.0 manual - R229 995

2.0 auto - R239 995

Included is a five-year/100 000km warranty and four-year/90 000km service plan.