2023 Kia Soul Loses Turbo And X-Line Trims, Gains Happy Colors

[ad_1]

When Kia introduced the 2021 Soul, some items were removed from certain models. Then 2022MY arrived and picked up the manual gearbox. We have now reached 2023MY and that also removed some content, the main one being the more powerful engine. Indeed, the Turbo model is being phased out, leaving customers out of the option of ordering a unique hatchback with a 201-horsepower 1.6-liter petrol engine featuring forced induction.

Going forward, the Soul will be sold strictly with a 147-hp, 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that sends 132 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels via an automatic transmission. 2023MY also sees the demise of the rather rugged X-Line trim that was introduced with third-generation vehicles for the 2020MY. As previously reported, the Soul EV was originally promised for the United States before being delayed, and was eventually canceled.

It’s not all negative as 2023MY comes with some new stuff. For example, the front grille and fog lamps have been redesigned. Additionally, Kia gave the Soul new daytime running lights and turn signal lights, along with some minor tweaks at the rear. Customers can choose from newly designed 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Read More:  2023 Mercedes-AMG S63 Spy Video Rumbling Around Nurburgring

Debuting with the latest model year are additional two-tone paints such as Clear White and Surf Blue that can be combined with the Fusion Black roof. Not much has changed on the inside, but all trim levels except the base LX get a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. New for 2023 are the LX Technology Package bundling safety technologies such as Blind Spot Collision Avoidance and Rear Cross Collision Avoidance with 16-inch wheels.

Alternatively, you can opt for the GT-Line Technology Package with Harman Kardon sound system, heated front seats, electric parking brakes and an adjustable cargo floor. The optional package also includes LED headlights and taillights as well as an adjustable cargo cover and driver’s seat. On the safety side, it adds Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning ability.

Previously offered as optional equipment, the following items now come as standard across the Kia Soul 2023 lineup, which includes the LX, S, EX, GT-Line, GT-Line Tech:

  • Forward-Pedestrian Collision Avoidance Assistance
  • Lane Keeping Assist + Lane Following Assist[i]
  • Driver Attention Warning
  • Line Departure Warning
  • High Ray Assistance
  • Rear Occupants Warning
Read More:  New Kia K3 Compact Sedan Revealed, Could Preview Forte Successor

While the Soul hasn’t been getting much media attention in recent times, Kia reminds us that sales in 2021 are up nearly five percent to more than 75,000 units.

[ad_2]

Source link

Share this: