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The Kia Soul is a small SUV-like hatchback with a focus on design aesthetics.
The original 2005 design was said to be based on a ‘wild boar wearing a backpack’ to appeal to a younger audience.
For the first two generations, the design looked unlike most small SUVs and was most comparable to the Toyota Rukus. Much like other style-focused cars, the Soul has had many special editions.
Currently the Soul starts at $15,840 for the Soul Si and tops out at $20,240 for the Soul Si.
From launch the Soul was front-wheel drive and petrol only and shared a chassis with the Hyundai i20. An EV version of the Soul has been produced for other markets.
While Kia continues to make a model called the Soul, it’s not sold officially in Australia. Which means to get a 2024 model in this country, you’d be looking at a private (or`grey’) import. At which point, there’d be no factory warranty from Kia and you may have trouble finding service and replacement parts when you need them.
Kia Australia sold the Soul here from 2009 to 2020. It was a good concept, but never really seemed to resonate with Aussie buyers. It was practical and functional and probably deserved to do better. Unfortunately, it went head to head with trendier SUVs which were much more popular and, therefore, sold in bigger numbers.
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The cost will generally depend on the variant and year. You can get more information on quick and cheap key replacments from dealers or automotive locksmiths here.
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You have to take your key fob to Kia or a qualified locksmith who can code it to your car for you. Coding keys requires tapping into your car's computer using specialist software so it isn't a job Harry Homejob can do with basic tools.
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The Kia Soul certainly stands out from the crowd, and the same is true of its interior. As these images show, its funky dashboard is flanked by air vents that are combined with speakers. All of the brand's signature touches are there but presented in a unique way. Trim quality is okay for the price, although the leather in certain variants gives it a lift.