At the recent Geneva Motor Show, the Korean company Kia, along with other new products, showed the third generation of its unusual Soul 2020 model year crossover.
Model history
The car was first introduced at the end of 2008 and immediately attracted the attention of an unusual exterior. Initially, experts even found it difficult to attribute the model to a specific class. The second generation Soul, which has undergone a scheduled update in 2016, is currently being produced. In addition to the original appearance, the car has such advantages as:
- reliability;
- spacious lounge;
- good cross;
- security;
- universality.
The third generation Soul was introduced at the end of 2018, and the Kia company brought to Geneva a fully electric version of the car.
The Soul comes closest to the description of the mini-SUV segment and therefore the following crossovers are considered the closest competitors:
- Suzuki SX4;
- Hyundai Creta;
- Skoda Yeti;
- Ford EcoSport;
- Mitsubishi ASX.
Esther
Developing a new image for Soul 2020, Kia designers tried to preserve the recognizable style of the model as much as possible, but at the same time make the updated design more stylish and vibrant.
This task was completed using the following solutions:
- narrowed head optics with integrated LED lines of navigation lights;
- direct hood with embossed stamping;
- front bumper with a massive grille;
- additional front units with integrated lighting equipment;
- straight line of the roof;
- extended large wheel arches;
- curly front stamping;
- large side glazing;
- a vertical tailgate with C-shaped narrow lights;
- plastic body kit;
- 18-inch drives
- step rear bumper;
- dual exhaust diffusers mounted in a protective panel.
The changes made in appearance gave the car a modern image, but at the same time retained the individual features inherent in the Soul crossover.
Interior
The designers of the company did not make significant changes in the car interior, but through the use of point solutions made it more comfortable and interesting.
The most important improvements include:
- new multi-function steering wheel with a straight bottom;
- the central part of the front console with an integrated display, turned towards the driver;
- comfortable door armrests with controls for various machine systems;
- wide front armrest with storage box;
- front seats with increased lateral support;
- Changed air conditioner vents with improved airflow distribution.
In the interior design, high-quality materials are used that increase the noise insulation parameters, and the upholstery is made of innovative three-dimensional fabric. In addition, many interior elements received a border made of light metal.
Specifications
Soul of the third generation received a new K2 platform, which allowed to increase dimensions. New crossover sizes leave:
Parameter | The size | Change |
Length | 4,200 mm | +56 mm |
Width | 1 800 mm | — |
Height | 1,600 mm | — |
Wheelbase | 2 600 mm | +30 mm |
Trunk | 365/650 l | + 10 / + 145 l |
Initially, the Kia Soul 2020 model year will be equipped with power units with the following technical specifications:
engine's type | Volume | Power |
Petrol aspirated | 2.0 l | 150 h.p. |
Petrol turbocharged | 1,6 l | 205 h.p. |
The crossover transmission will receive only front-wheel drive performance, and as a gearbox it is possible to use a 6-speed manual transmission, 7-speed automatic transmission or CVT.
Also, the new Soul will be available with a 201-hp all-electric engine, the operation of which will be provided by:
- 64 kWh batteries;
- liquid cooling system;
- modern combined charging system.
The electric series will receive the name Soul EV.
Interesting structural solutions of the car include a semi-independent rear suspension, as well as the use of heavy-duty steels in the device, providing strength to the body and improved handling.
Soul 2020 has significantly updated the list of used systems and equipment. Among the most interesting and important can be noted;
- LED optics;
- automatic lighting;
- keyless access;
- engine start from the button;
- full power accessories, including automatic folding side mirrors when parking;
- multimedia complex with a 10.25-inch monitor;
- on-board computer;
- navigation equipment;
- all-round visibility;
- parking sensors;
- complex for tracking lanes, traffic signs, blind spots with the ability to automatically brake;
- projection display (optional);
- panoramic sunroof (optional);
- component speakers for 10 speakers;
- LED interior lighting with a variable color scheme;
- 2-zone climate control;
- electric steering wheel and all seats;
- wireless charging;
- USB connectors
- Cruise control;
- ABS
- ESC.
The final list of systems and equipment, as well as equipment options and available options, Kia will present before the serial production of the car.
Price and start of sales
The original Soul model was created by Kia for the US market. That is why the first sales of the third generation crossover will start in the United States in the spring of 2019.
In European countries, the launch of the Kia Soul 2020 is scheduled for the summer of 2019, at an estimated price for the basic performance of 17.70 thousand euros. In our country, to the official dealers of the Korean company, the novelty will arrive closer to the winter of 2019-2020.
Also see the review of gasoline and electric versions of the Kia Soul 2020:
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