The Track’ster interior features a circular theme, and the 2014 Soul continues that design inspiration. A triple-circle instrument cluster complements the sculpted circles along the door panels. The centre console features a push-button start (exclusive to Soul in the Kia lineup, which is a direct carryover from Track’ster. Other circular details – steering wheel–mounted controls, speaker enclosures – can be found throughout the interior. It’s subtle, though.
Most prominently, however, the new instrument panel incorporates an available eight-inch (200 mm) touchscreen housing Kia’s second-generation telematics and infotainment system, UVO eServices. Combined with Kia’s first use of the Android-based operating platform, UVO eServices is now compatible with iPhone and Android smartphones.
   2014 Kia Soul. Click image to enlarge |
The UVO eServices system features an industry-first integration of on-screen quick guide videos that highlight the features and functionality of UVO eServices, along with its smartphone app.
Driver and passengers are expected to experience a quieter cabin in the new Soul through the use of expansion foam to fill body cavities, a reinforced isolation pad in the cargo area and layered carpet that reduces interior noise by three decibels. Occupants will also benefit from more front legroom and rear legroom and shoulder room. The step-in height is reduced by five millimetres and cargo capacity is up by 14 L.
The all-new chassis is lighter and stronger than that of the outgoing model, and features a 20 mm narrower A-pillar for improved outward visibility. The front and rear suspension have been “heavily revised,” according to Kia with the front subframe now using four bushings (none were previously used) to reduce ride harshness and impact “booms” over rough pavement.
 2014 Kia Soul. Click image to enlarge |
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Soul’s steering box is moved forward, improving handling, and an optional “Flex Steer” system allows the driver to select from Comfort, Normal and Sport modes. The shock absorbers on the torsion bar rear suspension are now turned vertically, allowing for more suspension travel and better ride comfort.
Powerplants carry over with two engine choices – a 1.6L and 2.0L four-cylinder making 130 and 164 horsepower respectively – although the more powerful engine is now gasoline direct injected and both engines have been tuned to provide more low-end torque (nine percent more torque at 1,500 rpm on the 2.0L; five percent more on 1.6L) for improved city driving. The six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions also carry over.
Kia has wasted no time in building upon the success of the Soul. The new model retains the distinctive look of the outgoing model but massages it into a more current design. It’s a clever blend of the unusual and the practical in a small but sufficient package.
Look for the 2014 Soul, in up to seven new exterior colours, in fall 2013.
