Kia Soul EV Urban 2023: 171-Mile City Range, 134bhp Value

The 2023 Kia Soul EV Urban stands out in the crowded electric vehicle market as a practical, stylish choice tailored for urban environments. Priced at £32,845, this front-wheel-drive model combines a 39.2kWh battery with a 134bhp electric motor, delivering a WLTP range of 171 miles that’s optimized for city streets. Its boxy design not only turns heads but also maximizes interior space and visibility, making it a smart pick for commuters and small families.

Design and Practicality: Bold Looks Meet Everyday Utility

Kia’s Soul EV retains its signature quirky, upright silhouette, which sets it apart from sleeker rivals. The 2023 facelift introduces refreshed styling with new front fascia and 17-inch wheels, enhancing its modern appeal without straying from the model’s funky heritage. This boxy shape proves advantageous in tight urban settings, offering excellent all-around visibility from the elevated seating position.

Inside, the cabin impresses with generous passenger room, particularly in the rear where legroom rivals larger compact SUVs. Despite not being on a dedicated EV platform, the Soul EV provides surprising space for adults, making it family-friendly. Cargo capacity is ample too, with a boot that swallows everyday essentials effortlessly. Materials feel solid for the price, blending hard plastics with soft-touch surfaces in key areas.

• Key design highlights: Elevated driving position for better road view.
• Quirky exterior that stands out in city traffic.
• Spacious rear seats suitable for three passengers.
• Practical boot space for shopping or weekend gear.

Powertrain and Performance: Nimble and Efficient Urban Warrior

At the heart of the Urban trim is a single front-mounted electric motor producing 134bhp and a robust 395Nm of torque. This setup propels the Soul EV from 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds, with instant torque ensuring it feels much quicker, especially from low speeds. Top speed is a modest 97mph, but that’s plenty for city and suburban use.

Real-world testing confirms strong efficiency, with figures around 4.2 miles per kWh translating to over 163 miles of range in mixed conditions. In pure urban driving, Kia claims up to 250 miles, aided by regenerative braking that recaptures energy smoothly. The lightweight 1610kg curb weight helps, keeping energy consumption low even on longer trips.

Handling shines with light, accurate steering that’s perfect for maneuvering in traffic. Body control is composed for a tall vehicle, minimizing roll in corners, though Sport mode doesn’t add much steering heft. The ride absorbs urban potholes well, balancing comfort and control.

Technology and Infotainment: Modern Features for Daily Drives

The Soul EV Urban comes loaded with tech. A 10.25-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity. The digital instrument cluster, while slightly dated, provides clear range and efficiency readouts. Dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a reversing camera are standard, enhancing comfort.

Safety systems are comprehensive, including adaptive cruise control with lane-following assist, forward collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring. These features make highway stints stress-free, with the green steering wheel indicator signaling confident lane-keeping.

• Wireless smartphone integration.
• 10.25-inch infotainment screen.
• Advanced driver aids like lane follow and adaptive cruise.
• Heated front seats and steering wheel.

Battery and Charging: Practical for City Dwellers

The 39.2kWh battery supports 100kW DC fast charging, achieving 10-80% in 47 minutes—adequate for quick top-ups. Home AC charging is straightforward via the onboard charger. While the smaller pack limits long-distance potential compared to the Explore’s 64kWh (280 miles), it’s cost-effective for urban use where frequent short charges suffice.

Winter performance merits note: the front charge port can accumulate ice, posing access issues in cold climates without a garage. A heat pump, available on higher trims, would mitigate range loss in low temperatures.

Urban vs Explore: Which Trim Fits Your Needs?

The Urban prioritizes affordability with essential features, while the Explore upgrades to 201bhp, 64kWh battery, and luxuries like leather seats. Urban suits city commuters; Explore targets occasional longer trips.

Ownership Experience: Reliability and Costs

Kia’s seven-year warranty provides peace of mind, covering the battery too. Running costs are low, with efficiency beating petrol rivals. Insurance and road tax benefits for EVs add savings. Resale value holds strong due to Kia’s reputation.

Potential drawbacks include the dated cluster and slower charging versus premium EVs. Still, value shines at this price point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the real-world range of the Kia Soul EV Urban?

Expect 160-200 miles depending on conditions; up to 250 miles in city driving.

Is the Soul EV Urban good for families?

Yes, spacious rear seats and boot make it suitable for small families.

How fast does it charge?

10-80% in 47 minutes at 100kW DC.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

What’s the warranty like?

Seven years unlimited mileage, including battery.

Final Thoughts: A Smart Urban EV Choice

The Kia Soul EV Urban delivers fun, efficiency, and practicality in a distinctive package. Ideal for city life, it punches above its weight in value and drivability. Test drive one to experience its zippy charm.