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PROS
- Eye-catching, but not too funky, styling inside and out
- Boxy shape yields amazing interior space for a small car
- Driving manners are good

CONS
- Engine power is adequate, but only just
- Some other cars in this class are more engaging to drive
- Not the last word in fuel economy

SUMMARY
The Soul is another in a series of box-shaped cars that neatly combine “make you smile” design with functional sense. We were thoroughly impressed with this Kia, though aggressive drivers will want to look elsewhere.

The exterior design of the Soul is engaging, and many people commented that it seemed like a successor to the lamented first generation Scion xB. Even more impressive is the interior of the Soul, which on our tester was an attractive black and red mix. The attention to design detail flows throughout the interior, the materials are of high quality, and almost all comments were favorable. As we found with the Nissan Cube, the Soul has impressive headroom and legroom for second row passengers. With the rear seats folded, the Soul has a flat load floor and lots of space for stuff.

On the road, the Soul handles well. It has a good ride quality, and handling is balanced. Roll is kept in check pretty well, though once you’re really boiling along there is some lean angle. The driving limitation of the Soul comes in the elusive area of “feel”. The Soul drives well, but simply isn’t doesn’t deliver the so-called go-kart handling of a few competitors.

You can read more about the 2010 Kia Soul on the vehicle's buyer's guide page. Looking for reviews of other cars? Click here to search through the NextAutos Buyer's Guide database.