Kia puts new soul into its Soul 16 | 09 | 2011

KIA HAS REVISED its 'Marmite-like' — you either love it or hate it — Soul. Personally, having driven it, I have to admit I have something of a soft spot for it (though I can't stand Marmite!).

I've always wished though that Kia was able to make a four-wheel-drive version. Unfortunately technical restrictions mean it's impossible. Pity; 'cause otherwise it would be able to give the Skoda Yeti a good run for its money.

So: what's new with the Soul? Well it now has a range of new powertrains, a higher specification and an uprated cabin design.

The new Kia Soul — which goes on sale across Scotland next month — will be available with a 140bhp, 1.6-litre engine delivering 122lb/ft at 4850rpm. Thankfully, the 128bhp, 192lb/ft CRDI diesel option – one of the most popular choices in the Soul range – continues.

Both engines will be offered with a choice of new six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

See more photos of the revised Kia Soul

One option which is likely to be a big seller is the Soul's new EcoDynamics pack. With start-stop technology and alternator management, it will reduce CO2 emissions to 125g/km and 139g/km for diesel and petrol models respectively.

While externally the most noticeable difference is the fact the new Soul sits on 18in alloys, the new version is also 15mm longer thanks to an extended nose. The front also gets larger and more prominent fog lamps, plus a wider front air intake.

Also — much to the frustration of many drivers — the new Soul also gets the now, it would appear, compulsory twin-bulb daylight running lights fitted as standard. LED light clusters at the front and rear are standard on higher-spec versions.

The interior of the new Soul benefits from a revised centre console, circular-type LCD heater controls and a wider choice of new interior fabrics.

Read our roadtest of the Kia Sportage

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Jim McGill