Introduction
The 2011 Kia Soul stands out in a crowded market of compact cars, offering quirky styling, solid performance, and an affordable price tag. Priced starting at around $13,995, this small station wagon is not just about looks; it delivers a fun driving experience, plenty of cargo space, and an array of desirable features that appeal to a wide variety of drivers. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the specifications, features, pros and cons of the 2011 Kia Soul, helping you decide if this is the vehicle for you.
Kia Soul: An Overview
At first glance, the 2011 Kia Soul grabs your attention with its boxy design and unique character. This station wagon is perfect for those who dare to be different, blending practicality and personality. With its 1.6L inline 4-engine, the Soul boasts 122 horsepower—plenty for zipping around the city or cruising down the highway. Its front-wheel-drive setup gives drivers a reliable ride, while the 5-speed manual transmission offers a hands-on driving experience.
Engine Performance and Fuel Economy
Under the hood, the 2011 Kia Soul is equipped with a 1.6L DOHC MPI CVVT I4 engine that churns out 122 horsepower at 6300 RPM and 115 lb-ft of torque at 4200 RPM. It may not win any drag races, but it gets the job done for everyday driving. Plus, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 28 mpg combined and a city/highway split of 26/31 mpg, this car is kind to your wallet at the pump. You can expect around 330 miles in the city and nearly 394 miles on the highway on a single tank, thanks to its 12.7-gallon fuel capacity.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space
The interior of the 2011 Kia Soul is spacious and comfortable, with enough room to seat five passengers. With a total passenger volume of 102.3 cubic feet, everyone will have room to spread out, and the 60/40 split-folding rear seats make it easy to store larger items. Whether you’re going for a grocery run or a weekend getaway, the Soul provides 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a generous 53.4 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. With ample headroom and legroom, passengers will feel comfortable, even on long drives. You’ll appreciate the tilt steering wheel and various storage options scattered throughout the cabin.
Safety Features
Safety isn’t something the 2011 Kia Soul overlooks. It comes packed with essential safety features, including electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Throughout crash tests, the Soul received an impressive overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars, showcasing its durability in real-world situations. From dual front and side airbags to side-impact door beams, the Soul offers peace of mind for both drivers and their passengers. Plus, with features like tire pressure monitoring and rear child safety locks, it’s an affordable option that keeps safety at the forefront.
Stylish Exterior and Wheel Options
The funky exterior of the 2011 Kia Soul turns heads no matter where you go. With its 15-inch steel wheels and all-season tires, this car combines functionality and style effortlessly. The body-colored bumpers and unique chrome-accented grille create a charismatic facade that stands out in any crowd. The clear-lens halogen headlamps ensure you’ll always have visibility when you need it, and the variable intermittent windshield wipers keep the view clear regardless of the weather. It’s a car that knows how to make a statement!
Entertainment and Technology
On the tech front, the 2011 Kia Soul doesn’t disappoint either. Enjoy your favorite tunes with the AM/FM stereo equipped with a CD/MP3 player, USB port, and auxiliary input jack. With four speakers, you’ll find plenty of sound to fill the cabin. Plus, it even comes with a 3-month trial subscription to Sirius satellite radio, meaning you’ll have endless entertainment options during your drives. Add to this the digital clock, tachometer, and outside temperature display, and you’ll be equipped with all the information you need while on the road.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Look
Pros:
- Quirky and unique design
- Great fuel economy
- Spacious interior and cargo space
- Affordable price point
- Impressive safety ratings
Cons:
- Limited engine performance
- Noisy cabin at high speeds
- Basic entertainment features
Final Verdict
All said and done, the 2011 Kia Soul is an excellent choice for those searching for a budget-friendly vehicle that doesn’t skimp on style and space. Its distinctive design, fuel efficiency, and safety features make it a solid option for singles, couples, or small families. While it may not break any speed records, its reliability and comfort more than make up for it. So, if you’re in the market for a unique and practical small station wagon, the Kia Soul is definitely worth a test drive. In the battle of compact cars, this quirky ride holds its own and could very well be the perfect match for you!
