When we think about what makes a car a standout choice, safety often tops the list. That’s especially true for the 2020 Kia Soul — a vehicle that refuses to blend in with its boxy silhouette and punchy performance. It’s not just about the style, though; the Soul’s safety ratings have become a part of the conversation, and for good reason. With a redesign that year, Kia aimed to provide not only an eye-catching exterior but also a fortress of safety on four wheels.
We’ve seen the Soul evolve over the years, and our combined experience tells us that this isn’t just another car on the road — it’s about peace of mind in a compact package. The vehicle’s impressive safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) echo our sentiments. These ratings are a testament to the Soul’s ability to protect its passengers, with a slew of safety features and reinforced structural design geared towards withstanding the rigors of the road.
In an era where safety is paramount, the Kia Soul steps up. It’s no longer just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing so securely. We understand that car buyers are looking for reliable information when they’re making a decision, and safety is a non-negotiable aspect in that process. Through further analysis of the Soul’s safety features and crash test results, we’ll get to see exactly how this vehicle stacks up in the ever-important safety arena.
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2020 Kia Soul Overview
The 2020 Kia Soul, a charmer in the subcompact hatchback market, debuts its third generation on a new platform, packing evolutionary changes with its iconic boxy shape. Here’s what we found noteworthy about its design, utility, and what you can expect when you peek under the hood at the various trims and features.
Design and Utility
The Soul’s distinctive boxy silhouette is not just for show; it maximizes interior space, marrying form with function. Pop the trunk and you’ve got a cargo haven that scoffs at your weekly grocery trips and luggage for weekend escapes. The 60/40-split rear seats fold down to reveal even more space, because let’s face it, everyone needs room for that impulse buy at the antique shop.
| Aspect | Details | Utility | Comfort |
| Cargo Space (behind rear seats) | 24.2 cu ft | Ample for daily needs and getaways | Sophisticated and cozy |
| Cargo Space (rear seats down) | 62.1 cu ft |
Trim Levels and Features
From the get-go, the standard 2020 Kia Soul perks us up with its baseline features, like automatic climate control and a peppy infotainment system that plays nice with both Android Auto and Apple Carplay. As you climb the trim ladder, the allure grows: the GT-Line adds a vroom with sporty vibes, while the GT-Line Turbo gives you brisk acceleration and a cheeky growl to match. The EX, ever the crowd-pleaser, swathes you in niceties without leaving your wallet to weep.
- Standard — 7-inch touch screen, smartphone integration.
- GT-Line — Sporty exterior accents, available sunroof.
- GT-Line Turbo — 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, sunroof included.
- EX — Designer 17-inch wheels, 10.25-inch touch screen.
Performance and Efficiency
In the dance of power and efficiency, the 2020 Kia Soul moves with poise. We’ve seen engines that sip fuel stingily, but they often skimp on zest. Not so with the Soul. Buckle up as we dive into what’s under the hood.
Engine and Transmission Options
🔧 Under the sculpted bonze of the 2020 Kia Soul lies an energetic 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, eager to pump out 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It’s teamed up with a controllable intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) that mimics the shifts of a traditional automatic.
For thrill-seekers craving that extra oomph, the Soul GT-Line Turbo’s quicksilver heart is the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s a pocket rocket, blasting out 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. With these horses under the hood, it’s like having a sporty sidekick always ready to zip through traffic.
Clinking glasses with the turbo is a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that slips through gears smoother than a hot knife through butter, offering both quick responses and impressive efficiency. Front-wheel drive keeps the Soul sure-footed and agile, a reassuring companion for both urban adventures and highway cruises.
The non-turbo engine and IVT combo is like a fuel economy magician pulling rabbits out of a hat, with an EPA-estimated rating nudging the boundaries of what we expect from a subcompact crossover.
For those who got bitten by the performance bug, the GT-Line Turbo, despite its zestier spirit, doesn’t drink fuel as if it’s at an open bar.
What’s the takeaway? Kia Soul’s combo is neither a gas-guzzler nor a sleepy sedan. It’s that sweet spot, like finding a winning lottery ticket in a pair of old jeans. So if it’s efficiency with a dash of exuberance you’re after, the Soul might just be your muse. 🚗💨
Safety and Reliability
When it comes to the safety of the 2020 Kia Soul, we find reassurance in rigorous evaluations by trusted organizations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) assigns safety ratings that help shoppers compare vehicles. Notably, the frontal rating is a combination of the driver and passenger star ratings, simulating a head-on collision scenario that’s absolutely no picnic.
- Frontal barrier test reflects a head-on collision at 35 mph.
- Side rating and side barrier also put to the test, including a side pole barrier.
- Equipment such as airbags and seatbelts scrutinized for effectiveness.
We take pride in mentioning the Kia Soul’s equipment, which includes automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist. Such features have become watchful guardians on bustling streets, and frankly, they’re a godsend during those moments when we’re trying to wrangle an errant coffee cup or navigate a jam-packed school zone at drop-off time.
Differentiating between a distracted pedestrian and a static pole is no small feat, yet with the added pedestrian detection, the Soul is equipped to offer a helping hand, which, let’s face it, can sometimes be more reliable than the mere mortals at the wheel. Similarly, driver attention warning is our silent hero, nudging us when our thoughts start drifting further than our wheels.
As savvy consumers, we shouldn’t overlook the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings where the Soul strutted its stuff. The structure and safety cage, alongside tests covering areas like roof strength, are closely examined. Even with a stern look from IIHS, the vehicle managed to secure scores that allow us a breath of relief.
| IIHS Rating Area | Score |
| Roof Strength | Good |
| Head Restraints & Seats | Good |
🚨 Let’s be frank, no car is perfect. Headlight performance was deemed somewhat less than ideal with a marginal rating, signaling that there’s room for brightening up our path forward. But overall, the 2020 Kia Soul seems to solidly anchor itself in the realm of safety and reliability. We say, that’s no small victory for this plucky subcompact crossover. 🚗💨
Comparison with Competitors
When shopping for a subcompact crossover, it’s essential to know how the 2020 Kia Soul stacks up against its rivals. We’ll take a detailed look to ensure you make an informed decision.
Market Position and Alternatives
The 2020 Kia Soul distinguishes itself in the subcompact crossover market with its unique styling and considerable value. With competitors like the Nissan Kicks and Mazda CX-3, the Soul steps up with a focus on practicality and personality. The Kicks is known for its fuel efficiency and spacious cabin, while the CX-3 wins praise for its agile handling and upscale interior. Still, the Soul offers standout features that keep it competitive.
To give you a clearer picture, let’s zero in on some of the pros and cons of these vehicles. The Kia Soul’s bold design may not be for everyone, but it offers a roomy interior and a comfortable ride, reflecting good value for money. On the other hand, the Mazda CX-3, while more compact, provides a sportier experience and generally receives high safety scores. The Nissan Kicks, considered a value-driven alternative, doesn’t skimp on safety but keeps things modest under the hood.
- Kia Soul: Spacious, comfortable, and affordable with superior optional front crash prevention systems.
- Nissan Kicks: Fuel-efficient and spacious but less powerful.
- Mazda CX-3: Sporty and upscale but smaller interior dimensions.
Remember, standard safety features can vary widely, so always double-check! For instance, the superior-rated optional front crash prevention systems in the Kia Soul could be a deal-maker. Think about what matters most to you in a car – is it the spunky kick of acceleration when you step on the gas, or maybe it’s knowing you’ve bagged a good deal that keeps your wallet happy? 🚗 💡 ⛽ Whatever your preference, the market is full of alternatives, and ours is to help steer you in the right direction. 🏁
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