The Denim is a limited (1200 units) version of 2010 Kia Soul Soul+ for the US market. The Kia Soul will be a mini SUV after 2013 in its second generation which the Kia Track'ster will succeed the first generation Kia Soul.
The center display for sound system was previously red LED and was revised to include a full color range. Upper trims included power folding heated mirrors with turn signal repeaters.
Inside, audio controls were relocated to the steering wheel and Bluetooth became standard across the range. The exterior Kia badges became now smooth instead of raised lettering. The 2013 North American Kia Soul received upgrades including 3 new colors, a bulged hood, revised grille with black chrome accents, LED red tail lights, LED amber front turn signals under the headlights and white LED running lights under the front turn signals. The modified 1.6 CRDi diesel returns 57.6 mpg and has cut its CO 2 emissions from 138 g/km to 129g/km – particularly important for the European market where taxation is based on carbon emissions. As a result, the gasoline offers a 14 bhp uplift in power compared to its predecessor, while returning improved fuel economy.
Īs part of the 2012 upgrades, European models were fitted with new 1.6-liter GDI gasoline or 1.6 CRDi diesel engines, both of which can be specified with an automatic gearbox or a new six-speed manual gearbox, replacing the five-speed unit in the old version. New features included navigation, UVO infotainment, leather and heated seats and automatic climate control. The 2.0 returns 23–24 in the city and 28–29 on the highway.
The 1.6 now delivers 25–26 mpg in the city and 30–31 on the highway. In North America the updated 1.6 liter engine, featuring direct injection, makes 138 hp/123 lb-ft the 2.0 liter engine makes 164 hp/148 lb-ft of torque. įor model year 2012, the Soul received revised exterior and interior styling and new powertrains. The interior features two front bucket seats and a rear flat-folding bench seat that can adjust to prioritize passenger or cargo volume.
Both the ride quality and interior were upgraded during the first year of production. Īccording to the Automotive News, the Soul had been criticized for a "plasticky" interior and a harsh ride. The Soul draws inspiration from a cancelled Volkswagen SUV proposal based on the Volkswagen Fox platform designed under the supervision of Peter Schreyer, who would become Kia's chief designer in 2006 and incorporate the design into the Soul. The New York Times reported "the boar's attitude of strength and capability was the image wanted for a new model aimed at hip urban youths." After seeing a television documentary on wild boars and learning of their importance in Korean culture, Torpey sketched a caricature of a boar wearing a backpack. As a new member of Kia's Design Team in Irvine, California, Torpey was sent to Kia Korea to brainstorm a new vehicle. The Soul concept was styled by Mike Torpey in early 2005.