Named the third-best subcompact SUV on the market by
U.S. News and World Report, the 2021 Kia Soul stands out due to its boxy design and spacious cabin. The Soul underwent a complete overhaul for the 2020 model year, so the 2021 models don't have many changes. However, there are a few notable additions that you can expect with the 2021 Kia Soul.
Renamed Trim
Previously, the Kia Soul had six trims: LX, S, GT-Line, X-Line, EX, and GT-Line Turbo. For the 2021 model year, Kia renamed the top-of-the-line GT-Line Turbo trim to just the Turbo. Along with the new name, the Turbo has updated badging to the grille, rear liftgate, and steering wheel. This trim comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that produces 201 horsepower. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Inside, it has cloth and synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel. For technology, it has the upgraded UVO infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touch-screen display, navigation, and wireless charging. It also includes a sunroof and a head-up display. For safety features, it adds adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection.
Additional Safety Feature
In addition to a rearview camera, all 2021 Soul trims now include the Rear Occupant Alert. This safety feature notifies you via several methods that someone or something is in the rear seat. You could receive a text message to your smartphone or the Soul might start beeping to notify you to check the rear seat once you disengage from the vehicle. This feature protects young children and pets from being accidentally left in the Soul once you reach your destination.
The Soul also includes a variety of available safety features, depending on the trim. Some of these features include the following:
- Automatic emergency braking.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Pedestrian detection.
- Driver drowsiness monitoring.
- Rear cross-traffic alert.
New Shock Valves
The mid-level X-Line and GT-Line with 18-inch wheels receive new standard shock valves to the shock absorbers to help improve the ride. Both of these trims include the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 147 horsepower and comes paired with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Remote Start Added
When temperatures dip, going out to start your Kia Soul can seem like an uncomfortable task. Even if you have a heated seat or steering wheel, it can take a few minutes for the vehicle to warm up. For the 2021 model year, Kia added a key fob with a built-in remote start to the EX and Turbo trims. This feature lets you begin the ignition process without actually turning a key inside the Soul.
To experience for yourself these new features for the 2021 Kia Soul, reach out to the professionals at
Mike Kelly Kia. They can answer any questions you might have and help schedule a test drive. Take this exciting SUV for a spin and get a feel for these updates so you can drive home in one of these vehicles today.
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.