2023 Kia Soul review

1. Nifty new design refresh

Bold functionality is the calling card of the Kia Soul, and this model year is no exception. Shaking it up for 2023, the exterior has redesigned front- and rear-end fascia, repositioned head and tail lights, and a prominent new exhaust outlet on the GT-Line trim. If you love standing out from the crowd, the 2023 Soul continues to deliver head-turning exterior colorways too, including two-tone options, and nature-inspired green and blue hues.

2. More standard driver aids than ever before

Generously equipped with no less than six standard driver aids, the 2023 Soul supports your own focused awareness. Newly standard for 2023, forward collision avoidance assist­ can help you navigate busy crosswalks and parking lots with ease. Late-night drivers and early birds will appreciate standard high beam assist; it takes the lead during darkness and dusk, switching automatically to prevent glare for oncoming vehicles or to brighten up the empty road ahead.

3. It sure is roomy

Want to make big trips together in comfort? The five-seat 2023 Soul's 120.9 cu-ft interior is bright and spacious, with a high roofline and broad window panes, plus a sunroof on the EX and GX-Line models. For helping out with a house move or taking four-legged friends to the park, the 24.2 cu-ft cargo area means more journeys with those that matter most. And when every seat is full, the legroom is noticeably generous too, with 41.1 inches up front and 38.8 inches for the rear row.

4. The GT-Line features

How about enjoying a sporting edge to your Soul with the GT-Line trim? Style elements exclusive to the GT-Line include gloss accent mirrors, front and rear bumpers, a rear skid plate, and unique trim badging, all subtle touches that elevate this fun runaround's silhouette. For your enjoyment as a driver, there's a leather-wrapped D-shape steering wheel and imitation leather and cloth seating. Two available packages upgrade the GT-Line further. For symphony-like sound, the technology package includes a Harman Kardon^® premium audio system and practical features like intelligent speed limit assist.

5. Fuel-sipping engine

When you need a crossover to take on main-vehicle duties or are looking to car-share with siblings or housemates, then more miles between fill-ups is one of those welcome features that will please everyone. All gas-powered 2023 Soul models deliver an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined via the sole engine option: a 147-hp 2L four-cylinder.