The KIA Soul EV marked a significant milestone as the company’s first all-electric, zero-emission vehicle to be introduced in the United States. From its inception, it stood out with a sleek, sporty, and undeniably bold design that was both eye-catching and inherently fun to behold. This pioneering model not only broke new ground for Kia but also challenged preconceived notions about what an electric vehicle could be.
When the concept of electric vehicles (EVs) first emerged, what image typically came to mind? For many, including seasoned automotive writers and car enthusiasts, the mental picture often gravitated towards older-generation EVs characterized by uninspiring designs and a somewhat clunky, slow driving experience. This perception was often reinforced by the sight of less-than-dynamic early electric models on the roads. However, the automotive landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation, and with it, the capabilities and appeal of electric cars have evolved exponentially.
This long-held perception was put to the test thanks to an exclusive invitation to the KIA Seattle Soul EV Media Drive event. This gathering provided a unique opportunity to engage directly with some of Kia’s senior Vice Presidents, who shared insights into the strategic introduction of the 100% all-electric Soul EV to the vibrant Pacific Northwest market. More importantly, it offered the invaluable chance to get behind the wheel and experience the new Soul EV firsthand, navigating the diverse urban and suburban environments of Seattle and its surrounding cities. This immersive experience was set to redefine expectations and showcase the true potential of modern electric driving.
Overview: Redefining Electric Mobility with the KIA Soul EV
The 2015 KIA Soul EV, and its nearly identical 2016 counterpart, truly exemplified what a modern electric vehicle could look like and how it could perform. Far from the boxy, uninspired designs of yesteryear, the Soul EV presented a refreshing aesthetic that blended Kia’s signature design language with a futuristic edge. It retained the iconic, somewhat quirky, and universally appealing silhouette of the gasoline-powered Soul but infused it with distinct EV-specific touches, such as a closed front grille housing the charging ports and unique aerodynamic wheel designs. This deliberate design choice ensured that the Soul EV was not just an eco-friendly option but also a stylish statement on wheels.
Prior to embarking on our test drive, the media event commenced with a comprehensive presentation from Kia representatives, held over breakfast at the distinguished Hotel 1000. This session was crucial in setting the stage, offering an in-depth look at the Soul EV’s innovative engineering, its environmental benefits, and Kia’s strategic vision for electric mobility. Experts delved into the specifics of its powertrain, battery technology, and the charging infrastructure support Kia was rolling out. The presentation highlighted Kia’s commitment to making electric vehicle ownership accessible and convenient, addressing common concerns and showcasing the thoughtful design choices that went into the Soul EV.
Following this insightful briefing, the anticipation grew, and it was finally time to transition from theoretical understanding to practical experience – time to get behind the wheel and truly feel the difference.
Driving the KIA Soul EV proved to be an utterly delightful experience. Its agility and responsiveness were immediately apparent, allowing it to navigate Seattle’s notoriously sharp curves and steep hills with remarkable grace and precision. Unlike many conventional vehicles that might hesitate or lag when transitioning from a full stop to acceleration, especially on an incline, the Soul EV demonstrated instant torque and seamless power delivery. Even when stopped on a steep downtown Seattle hill, there was absolutely no lag time in resuming motion, a testament to its efficient electric powertrain. This direct and powerful acceleration made for an incredibly smooth and confident drive. Without exaggeration, this stands as one of the most enjoyable test drives of any electric vehicle I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. The Soul EV effortlessly handled diverse driving conditions, from bustling city streets and expansive freeways to winding backroads, exhibiting the poise and dynamic handling typically associated with a well-tuned sports car. Its quiet operation further enhanced the driving pleasure, creating a serene cabin environment that allowed for conversations or simply enjoying the journey without the intrusive noise of a combustion engine.
Interior and Cargo Room: Thoughtful Design for Daily Life
One of the most pleasantly surprising aspects of the KIA Soul EV is its remarkably spacious backseat and generous trunk capacity. This is largely attributed to the clever placement of the battery pack, which is ingeniously integrated underneath the vehicle floor. This strategic positioning ensures that the battery does not intrude on the cargo area, allowing for an uncompromised and practical trunk space that can easily accommodate groceries, luggage, or daily essentials. While the backseat may not offer the expansive dimensions of a full-sized SUV, it certainly provides ample comfort for a couple of adults on longer journeys. Furthermore, it is perfectly capable of accommodating a pair of child car seats, with sufficient legroom remaining for the little ones, making it an excellent choice for families. Up front, both the driver and passenger seats are ergonomically designed and exceptionally comfortable, providing excellent support for extended periods. During our test drive, my partner Libby and I experienced this firsthand; whether I was at the wheel or simply relaxing in the plush passenger seat, the comfort level was consistently high, contributing to an overall enjoyable ride.
For anyone who spends a significant amount of time in their car, such as a busy parent or a dedicated business owner, the design of the mid-console is paramount. Having reviewed numerous vehicles, I can attest that intuitive controls are not just a luxury but a necessity. Given that I often spend more hours driving than sleeping, it’s imperative that a car’s navigation, audio system, climate controls, and Bluetooth functionalities are all logically placed and effortlessly accessible. This streamlined access ensures safety and minimizes distractions, allowing the driver to focus on the road while maintaining control over essential vehicle functions.
The KIA Soul EV excels in this regard, featuring a mid-console that, while simple in its aesthetic, is exceptionally well-designed for usability. The layout is intuitive, with clear button signage and appropriate placement that makes finding and operating controls second nature. This thoughtful design minimizes the learning curve and allows drivers to quickly become accustomed to the vehicle’s various systems, enhancing both convenience and safety on every journey.
Adding to its user-friendly interior, the Soul EV also incorporates an easily accessible USB charging port conveniently located in the front console. This feature is particularly appreciated in today’s digitally connected world, allowing occupants to keep their smartphones, tablets, and other devices charged and ready for use without any hassle. Beyond functionality, Kia placed a strong emphasis on sustainability in the Soul EV’s construction. It proudly holds the distinction of being the first vehicle globally to achieve UL environmental validation for its bio-based organic carbon content. This commitment to eco-conscious design is evident in the fact that the KIA Soul EV incorporates an impressive 53 pounds of eco-friendly materials throughout its interior. These innovative materials include corn and sugar-based plastics, along with thermoplastic elastomer fabric, which not only reduce the vehicle’s environmental footprint but also contribute to a comfortable and appealing cabin ambiance. This dedication to green materials underscores Kia’s broader vision for a more sustainable future in automotive manufacturing.
Charging: Empowering Your Electric Journey
The KIA Soul EV is a true pioneer as a 100% electric vehicle; it is not a hybrid, meaning it operates exclusively on electric power, eliminating any need for trips to a gas station. This full electrification marks a significant step towards a completely emissions-free driving experience. At the time of its release, the Soul EV boasted an impressive EPA estimated range rating of 93 miles on a full charge, with specific ratings of 92 miles for highway driving and an even better 102 miles for city driving. This range positioned the KIA Soul EV as a leading contender in its class, offering practical daily usability for most commuters and urban drivers. To further optimize efficiency and driving dynamics, Soul EV owners benefit from the choice of four distinct regeneration modes. These include “Drive” or “Brake” modes when Eco-mode is “Off,” and enhanced “Drive” or “Brake” modes when Eco-mode is “On.” Notably, the “Brake” setting with Eco-mode “On” maximizes kinetic energy recovery, converting deceleration into additional battery charge and thereby extending the effective range.
Kia made charging the Soul EV incredibly versatile and straightforward. Owners can conveniently plug into any standard 120v household outlet for Level 1 charging, which is ideal for overnight top-ups. For faster charging at home, a conventional 240v EV charger (Level 2) dramatically reduces charging times. The vehicle is equipped with two essential charging ports, providing maximum flexibility: an SAE J1772 port for Level-1 and Level-2 AC charging, and a CHAdeMO 480v DC fast-charging port for rapid replenishment of the battery. These dual ports are cleverly concealed behind a sliding door integrated into the front grille, maintaining the car’s sleek aesthetics while offering easy access. This comprehensive charging capability enhances the Soul EV’s “go-anywhere” appeal, making it equally convenient to charge in an owner’s garage or when on the move at public charging stations.
A prevalent misconception regarding EVs, which I confess I once shared, is the fear of running out of charge due to an insufficient number of public charging stations—often termed “range anxiety.” However, the reality, particularly with the Soul EV’s introduction, was starkly different. Kia actively worked to dispel this myth by fostering a robust charging infrastructure. At the time, Kia had cultivated partnerships with 122 charging station providers across the Pacific Northwest alone, with this network consistently expanding. Moreover, every Kia EV dealer in Washington and Oregon was specially outfitted with at least two Level 2 240V chargers, providing convenient and reliable charging options. Furthermore, a growing number of public locations offered DC fast chargers, with at least 10 such stations available in the region, significantly reducing charging times and making longer journeys more feasible. This comprehensive approach to infrastructure development demonstrated Kia’s dedication to supporting EV owners and fostering confidence in electric mobility.
Cost: Value and Accessibility in Electric Driving
The KIA Soul EV presented an accessible entry point into electric vehicle ownership, with its base model starting at an MSRP of $33,950. For those seeking enhanced features and greater luxury, the KIA Soul EV PLUS was available from $35,950. Beyond the outright purchase, Kia also offered attractive leasing options, making electric driving even more attainable. The Soul EV could be leased for approximately $249 per month, while the EV Plus model was available for around $279 per month. These competitive pricing and leasing structures were designed to encourage broader adoption of electric vehicles, especially when considering potential federal and state incentives that could further reduce the effective cost of ownership.
The distinction between the standard Soul EV and the Soul EV Plus primarily lay in a suite of premium amenities and advanced features. The EV Plus model elevated the interior experience with luxurious leather trim seats, offering a choice of three levels of heating and ventilation for the front seats, a significant upgrade from the straight heated seat system found in the regular EV. Additionally, the EV Plus boasted advanced parking assist with both front and rear sensors, enhancing convenience and safety in tight urban spaces. Practical exterior enhancements included power-folding outside mirrors, which are particularly useful in congested areas, and sophisticated projection fog lamps for improved visibility. These upgrades provided a compelling argument for those willing to invest a little more for a heightened sense of comfort, convenience, and advanced technology in their electric vehicle experience, further cementing the Soul EV’s position as a well-rounded and appealing choice in the evolving EV market.
Audience: Who Benefits Most from the KIA Soul EV?
The KIA Soul EV truly shines as an exceptional vehicle for anyone seeking a stylish, efficient, and enjoyable car that definitively breaks away from the dated image of early electric vehicles. It’s a compelling option for those who appreciate modern design, sustainable technology, and a driving experience that’s anything but slow or clunky. Personally, I would absolutely love to own a KIA Soul EV if my household didn’t already have a dedicated commuter car. While its range might not make it the ideal choice for extensive family road trips—such as the one we recently undertook through Washington, Idaho, and Montana, which demands significant mileage—it excels in almost every other daily driving scenario. Instead, the Soul EV positions itself as an ideal everyday car for a broad spectrum of drivers. It’s perfect for singles navigating urban landscapes, young couples starting their journey, or retirees looking for an economical and environmentally friendly vehicle. Furthermore, it would serve as an excellent secondary or commuter car for families like mine, particularly those with elementary and middle school-aged children, providing a cost-effective and practical solution for daily school runs, errands, and local travel. Its blend of compact dimensions, surprising interior space, and agile handling makes it a versatile choice for contemporary urban and suburban living.
What’s Next? The Future of Electric Mobility
The world of electric vehicles is characterized by relentless innovation and rapid advancement. Automotive designers continuously push the boundaries of aesthetics, creating EVs that are not only sustainable but also visually striking and appealing. Concurrently, engineers are tirelessly working on developing electric powertrains and battery technologies that promise greater efficiency, extended ranges, and faster charging times than ever before. This ongoing evolution suggests a future where range anxiety becomes a relic of the past, and electric vehicles are even more seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. Looking ahead, imagine the convenience of simply parking your car and having it charge autonomously. How does wireless charging sound to you? This technology, once a futuristic concept, is rapidly moving towards widespread implementation, promising to further simplify the charging process and make EV ownership even more effortless and integrated into our connected world. The journey of electric mobility is just beginning, and the innovations yet to come promise a truly exciting and sustainable future.