Main Highlights of the 2025 Kia Soul:
Updated tech features, including larger touchscreen
Excellent fuel efficiency for a compact crossover
Unique boxy design that stands out
Enhanced safety features standard across trims
Affordable starting price around $21,000
Introduction: Why the 2025 Kia Soul Still Matters in Today’s Car Market
In a world where compact SUVs are blending into each other with similar looks and features, the 2025 Kia Soul continues to offer something different — a bold design, surprising spaciousness, and a wallet-friendly price tag. American car buyers in 2025 are navigating rising auto loan interest rates and skyrocketing prices on popular models. In such a scenario, the Kia Soul presents a refreshing alternative with its standout style, practicality, and affordability.
This year, Kia has refined the Soul’s appeal with updated technology, safety upgrades, and subtle styling enhancements that keep it fresh in the competitive crossover segment. Whether you’re a city commuter, a college student, or a small family looking for value, the 2025 Kia Soul deserves your attention.
2025 Kia Soul Detailed Review
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Kia Soul is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), which offers smooth power delivery and better fuel efficiency than a traditional automatic.
Performance at a Glance:
Horsepower: 147 hp
Torque: 132 lb-ft
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Transmission: IVT
While it’s not a performance SUV, the Soul feels peppy for city driving and light highway cruising. The ride is comfortable, and the handling is confident for its size.
Mileage and Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency continues to be a strong suit for the Kia Soul.
City: 29 MPG
Highway: 35 MPG
Combined: 31–32 MPG
Compared to larger compact SUVs that average 25–28 MPG, the Soul offers long-term savings at the gas pump without sacrificing space.
Features and Interior Tech
The 2025 model brings in a larger standard touchscreen and more connectivity options across all trims.
Key Interior & Tech Features:
Standard 8″ or optional 10.25″ touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines
Dual-zone climate control (higher trims)
60/40 split-folding rear seats
Premium Harman Kardon sound system (GT-Line trim)
Interior space is one of the Soul’s biggest advantages. Despite its compact footprint, it offers excellent headroom and cargo space — up to 62.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Kia has made safety a priority in the 2025 Soul, adding more advanced driver-assist features even to lower trims.
Standard & Optional Safety Features:
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Blind Spot Detection
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Driver Attention Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control (GT-Line)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Affordable base price
Eye-catching design
Great fuel economy
User-friendly infotainment system
Spacious interior for its class
Cons:
No AWD option
Base engine can feel underpowered for some
Some hard plastic surfaces in the cabin
2025 Kia Soul Finance Guide
Affordability is one of the Soul’s strongest selling points, and many buyers opt for financing. Here’s a breakdown of what typical financing might look like in the U.S. in 2025.
EMI Breakdown Example:
| Trim | MSRP | Down Payment (10%) | Loan Amount | EMI (60 months @ 6.5%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | $21,500 | $2,150 | $19,350 | $380/month |
| S | $23,500 | $2,350 | $21,150 | $415/month |
| GT-Line | $25,900 | $2,590 | $23,310 | $455/month |
| EX | $27,500 | $2,750 | $24,750 | $485/month |
Financing Options:
Interest Rates: 5.5% to 7.5% APR depending on credit score
Loan Terms: 36 to 72 months
Zero-Down Offers: May be available with dealer incentives
Finance Eligibility:
Good Credit (700+): Best interest rates, pre-approved offers
Fair Credit (600–699): Slightly higher APR, co-signer may help
Poor Credit (<600): Subprime lenders, higher down payment may be required
2025 Kia Soul vs. Competitors
| Feature | 2025 Kia Soul | 2025 Honda HR-V | 2025 Hyundai Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $21,500 | $25,000 | $20,000 |
| Fuel Economy | 31 MPG combined | 28 MPG combined | 30 MPG combined |
| AWD Available | No | Yes | Yes |
| Cargo Capacity | 62.1 cu ft | 55.1 cu ft | 31.9 cu ft |
| Touchscreen Size | Up to 10.25″ | 9″ | 8″ |
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the 2025 Kia Soul good for families?
Yes. Despite being compact, the Soul offers excellent interior room and cargo space, making it a practical choice for small families.
2. Does the 2025 Kia Soul have AWD?
No, the Kia Soul is only available in front-wheel drive. If AWD is a must, you might consider the Kia Seltos or Honda HR-V.
3. What is the warranty on the 2025 Kia Soul?
Kia offers one of the best warranties in the business:
10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
4. Is the 2025 Kia Soul good for first-time buyers?
Absolutely. With its low price, high reliability, and generous features, it’s an ideal choice for new drivers or first-time car buyers.
5. When will the 2025 Kia Soul be available?
The 2025 model is expected to hit dealerships nationwide by late summer 2025.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the 2025 Kia Soul?
If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable, and fun-to-drive compact crossover, the 2025 Kia Soul checks all the right boxes. While it doesn’t offer AWD or a turbocharged engine anymore, it compensates with personality, fuel efficiency, tech upgrades, and standout value.
Buy it if: You want a stylish, budget-friendly vehicle with great features.
Skip it if: You need all-wheel drive or sporty performance.