Model Tested: 2015 Kia Soul EV
Engine: electric motor, 109 horsepower 210 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 1-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive
EPA Ratings: 120/City—92/Highway—105/Combined
Base Price: $33,700
As Tested: $34,625
Performance:
Good acceleration
0-60 mph approximately 12 seconds
Lots of torque
27kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery
Minimal road noise
Easy to park
Excellent city commuter car
Low center of gravity helps handling
Comfort:
Heated steering wheel
Heated front seats
Thick, nicely contoured steering wheel
Excellent headroom
Very good front legroom
Well insulated
Big back seat
Utility:
Deep console bin
Very deep glove box
Lots of auxiliary controls including phone connectivity
Big 8-inch infotainment screen
Split, folding rear seats
Two seatback pouches
Medium front door bins
Pedestrian Warning System because Soul is so quiet
WOW Factors:
Incredible economy
Super quiet
Advanced technology
Regenerative braking
EV charging station locator
10 year, 100,000 mile warranty
Whines:
Range anxiety
Slow recharge rate for 120v
EV model significantly raises price over gas models
Tight rear seat legroom
Limited cargo space behind rear seat
Bottom Line:
The Kia Soul was redesigned for 2014, so the only significant 2015 change is the availability of an all-electric model. All the EV functions worked flawlessly, but this is a specialized vehicle for people with specific travel habits and enough time for overnight 120v charging. 240v recharging and dedicated charging stations are much quicker.
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