If you’re hunting for a compact car that’s got personality, practicality, and pretty decent features, the 2017 Kia Soul Base Manual might just catch your eye. With its funky design and spacious interior, this little wonder might be exactly what you need for your daily drives or road trips. Let’s dive deep into what makes this ride tick and see if it’s a match made in heaven for you!
Overall Impressions of the 2017 Kia Soul
The first thing that strikes you about the 2017 Kia Soul is its unique shape. It’s not your average hatchback, that’s for sure! This vehicle stands out in a crowded parking lot with its boxy and modern design. Available at a starting price of around $16,995, it offers great value for what you get. You have the refreshingly spacious interior, solid build quality, and a quirky style that appeals to anyone looking to break the mold.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Soul is powered by a 1.6L GDI DOHC Dual CVVT I4 engine. With a horsepower of 130 at 6300 RPM and a torque of 118 at 4850 RPM, you won’t be winning any drag races, but it’s more than enough for daily commutes. The 6-speed manual transmission provides an engaging driving experience that gives enthusiasts a thrill. It’s lightweight and nimble, making it a breeze to navigate through city traffic and tight parking spots.
Fuel Economy That Won’t Break the Bank
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 2017 Kia Soul holds its own. With an EPA rating of 27 mpg combined, 24 mpg in the city, and 30 mpg on the highway, it’s pretty good for a compact rig. You’re looking at a range of around 340.8 miles in the city and 426 miles on the highway with its 14.2-gallon gas tank. Now that’s something to cheer about!
Interior: Roomy and Comfortable
Step inside the Kia Soul and prepare to be impressed. The interior is actually spacious for a compact car; you can comfortably seat five adults without feeling like you’re on top of each other. The total passenger volume is a roomy 101 cubic feet, with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and back seats. The front row boasts 40.9 inches of legroom, while the rear offers 39.1 inches.
Stylish and Functional Features
Now, let’s talk features. The 2017 Soul Base Manual comes with a range of amenities that make driving more enjoyable. The AM/FM/MP3 audio system comes with SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and six speakers to keep your favorite tunes pumping. In addition, you get a comfy driver’s seat with 6-way adjustability and a convenience of multiple cup holders, which is always a plus!
Safety Is No Accident
Your safety is paramount, and the Kia Soul scores highly in this department as well. It’s equipped with various features, such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and ABS with Driveline Traction Control, which can really come in handy. With an impressive 5-star crash test rating, you can confidently drive knowing you’re well protected.
Practical Cargo Space
Another notable mention is the cargo space. When you fold down the back seats, you get up to 49.5 cubic feet of space! That’s enough room for a weekend trip or a grocery haul. Even with the seats up, you still have **18.8 cubic feet**, which is more than adequate for day-to-day errands.
Pros and Cons of the 2017 Kia Soul Base Manual
Alright, let’s sum it up with a quick pros and cons rundown:
- Pros:
- Unique and distinctive design.
- Spacious interior with plenty of legroom.
- Decent fuel economy.
- Excellent safety ratings.
- Affordable starting price.
- Fun manual transmission option.
- Cons:
- Not the most powerful engine available.
- Limited advanced tech features compared to newer competitors.
- Some may prefer a smoother ride quality.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the 2017 Kia Soul Base Manual is a stylish, practical choice for anyone in the market for a compact car. It offers value that’s hard to beat and a quirky personality that’s sure to put a smile on your face. Whether you’re zipping through the city or loading up for a road trip, this ride has got what it takes. Go ahead, take it for a spin!
