A blue 2023 Kia Soul is shown parked off-road after visiting a Kia dealer.

Climb About The Thrill Ride That Is The Kia Soul

Driving can sometimes seem like a chore, a tedious task that must be done to get from point A to point B. But it does not have to be like that. In fact, driving can be a thrill ride designed to delight the senses and inspire adventure. If you are wondering what kind of car can do that, check your local Philadelphia Kia dealer for a Kia Soul.

One look at the Kia Soul will tell you everything you need to know. From the funky box shape to the unique front end, the Kia Soul is a sui generis, showcasing an array of quirky characteristics. Thankfully, it is not just paint deep with the Soul. You can expect fun inside and out, whether it is the color paint you choose or the mood lighting you drop a beat to. The Soul can be tailored to you, allowing you to express your personality through each carefully curated detail, letting you be the captain of your venture.

The black interior and dash of a 2023 Kia Soul is shown.

First Looks

First impressions make a difference and play an important role in deciding who we like and how we treat them. In a study done at Princeton University, it was determined that it could take no more than a tenth of a second to form an impression. A tenth of a second! Now imagine replacing that someone with something, let’s say a car. If that is the case, then how a car looks can make a world of difference.

I am sure the science behind first impressions does not necessarily work as a blanket application, but either way, first impressions matter, and my first impression of the Kia Soul is a good one. The Soul presents an almost squared-off back end with rear lighting that follows the curve of the hatch glass, creating a very distinct and practically futuristic vibe. An integrated rear bumper creates a bubbly curve, adding dimension to the whole thing. Rear deflectors follow the bumper’s egress and mimic the hatch glass’s styling.

At the front, the Soul’s design continues with blocky shapes softened with subtle curves. Blink, and you will miss the wheel well flares that are virtually nonexistent but play an important part in the Soul’s unique styling. Following the soft side scoops to the front, you are met with rounded edges as far as the eyes can see. Even the oversized grille lacks sharp angles, featuring an excellent grille insert with chrome inlays.

The front badging connects to the headlamps, stretched across the front like a smile. The grille runs end to end with a chrome grille surround that shoots off to either side. The designers chose to use shapes, shadows, and colors to play with our perception of the Soul. In some aspects, the Soul appears compact, while at other times, the Soul stretches into eternity.

If all the styling details were not enough to make the Soul stand out, then the color options would be. The color possibilities, like the somewhat plain-Jane options, Steel Gray, can be changed to a more adventurous option like Mars Orange. There are also two possibilities, Surf Blue and Clear White, which offer a two-tone with Fusion Black to create a floating roof design.

The black interior cargo space of a 2023 Kia Soul is shown.

Inside Is Just As Sweet

Boarding the Soul is just as rewarding, providing a spacious and modern interior. The interior has several options, but my favorite is the Black and White Syntex and cloth. The stark contrast is really fun, giving the soul a youthful vibe. Other options are more subtle, ranging in blacks and grays.

The Kia Soul can fit up to five, with a folding backseat, which allows for some flexibility for cargo. Flexibility is vital. Once your buddies get a glimpse of the Soul, you will probably be leading all of the road trips. After all, how many vehicles offer LED speaker lights? That is right. The Soul provides LED-connected lights that can be programmed to pulse with the music and change colors to fit your style or mood.

The available Harman Kardon Audio System pumps out rich, clear sound, and with the LED lights, you might need to remember you are in a car and not a party bus. The Harman Kardon system features ten speakers throughout the cabin, including a Subwoofer and even an External Amplifier for the ultimate in sound quality. Music will never be the same again.

Upgrade to the sizeable 10.25-inch infotainment display for an over-the-top experience, accessing all of your favorite apps. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on all trim levels and are a must for accessing all of your favorite content on the road. There is even an interior mood lighting feature available, taking your ride to the next level.

An available flat-bottom steering wheel evokes a race car vibe, making you feel the need for speed. This, combined with that awesome two-tone black and white interior, is quite reminiscent of the track. Every detail of the Soul has been thoughtfully planned to make sure your drive is one you will not forget.

If you do become the designated driver for all things adventurous, consider choosing a trim with a sunroof. There are plenty of side effects to opening up the roof and letting the fresh air and sunshine come streaming in. One benefit is, of course, happiness.

Nifty Is Neat

There are a few extra features available on the Kia Soul that make it stand out. One of these features is a heating element tucked away inside the rear glass hatch. The heating element can be turned on to warm the rear glass, allowing you to defrost or deice the glass on those cold days quickly. The heating element even includes a timer so that you do not have to worry about the glass overheating.

Roof Rack Mounting Points make it easy to load up extra cargo for any overnight excursions. Even though the Soul offers a good amount of interior space, having the option to mount cargo on the roof expands the possibilities, letting you load up on fun. Get it?

An in-dash wireless charger lets you safely stow your compatible smart device while also making sure you stay charged up. Even the dash surrounding the charging alcove is unique, with soft-touch materials for an elevated interior. From top to bottom, front to back, every element of the Soul has been planned to make it a unique and thrilling experience.

The Soul Is Where It’s At

Some vehicles are envied for their off-road capabilities, while others are desired for their spacious interiors and expansive cargo holds. The Soul, however, is desirable for the experience it provides. From its looks to its extras, the Kia Soul offers a unique ride that will have you excited to hit the road every day. You do not need a flashy sports car to get the thrill of driving.

From the fun and flamboyant exterior to the modern and funky interior, the Kia Soul is what it should be. It is an expression of individuality filled with convenience features and safety tech, making it an ideal everyday driver, a commuter, and a weekend getaway companion. Driving does not have to be dull, and the Kia Soul is proof of that.