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Under the skin lies a stiffer chassis that makes the next Soul almost an inch longer and wider than the outgoing model. Â This frees up extra passenger and cargo capacity while enabling the hatchback to retain its city-friendly footprint. Â
Kia promises that the 2014 Soul provides a noticeably more comfortable and quieter ride than the model it is tasked with replacing. Technology-focused customers can order the car with a large 8-inch touch screen mounted on the center stack that lets passengers control Kia's UVO eServices infotainment system, and Pandora internet radio and a three-month subscription to SiriusXMÂ satellite radio both come standard. Â
When it goes on sale in the United States later this year, the Soul will be available in three trim levels: Base, Plus and Exclaim. Â Base is powered by a 1.6-liter direct-injected all-aluminum four-cylinder engine that makes 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft. of torque, while Plus and Exclaim use a 2.0-liter four-banger that churns out 164 ponies and 151 lb-ft. of torque. Â Base and Plus are available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, while Exclaim is only offered with the automatic. Â Power is sent to the front wheels regardless of what gearbox is bolted to the engine. Â
A new FlexSteer system that allows the driver to pick between Comfort, Normal and Sport modes is available as an option. Â
Pricing information will be published closer to the Soul's on-sale date.
Live images by Mark Elias.