The 2024 Kia Soul EV continues to charm with its unique design, practical features, and solid performance. Known for its distinctive boxy shape and playful aesthetics, the Soul EV appeals to those seeking a characterful electric vehicle with modern conveniences. This analysis consolidates reviews from various sources to provide a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.
Comparative Review Ratings
| Attribute | e-Cars | Green Car Guide | Auto Express | Autocar | Move Electric |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design | 4 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 4 |
| Performance | 4 | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 4 |
| Driving Range | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.5 | 3.5 |
| Interior Comfort | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
| Infotainment/Tech | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
| Cargo Space | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Value for Money | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 | 4.5 |
Detailed Summary
Design
The Kia Soul EV’s design remains a standout feature with its iconic boxy shape, providing excellent headroom and a distinctive aesthetic appeal. Reviews from e-Cars and Green Car Guide highlight this distinctiveness as a key selling point, appealing to those who want a unique presence on the road. Auto Express acknowledges that while the design may not be universally appealing, it significantly contributes to a spacious interior. Both Autocar and Move Electric appreciate the vehicle’s practical design, which aids in urban maneuverability.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Kia Soul EV offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. e-Cars and Auto Express commend its nimble handling in city environments and quick acceleration from the electric motor. Green Car Guide and Move Electric note that the vehicle’s low center of gravity enhances stability, making it easy to drive on urban roads. Autocar adds that the Soul EV provides ample power, even in eco mode, making it versatile for different driving conditions.
Driving Range
The driving range of the Kia Soul EV garners mixed reviews. e-Cars and Move Electric praise its ability to cover typical urban distances comfortably, but Green Car Guide and Auto Express express concerns about range anxiety on longer trips. Autocar suggests that while the range is adequate for city use, it may not suffice for those needing more extensive travel capabilities.
Interior Comfort
Interior comfort is highly rated across all reviews. e-Cars and Move Electric highlight the spacious cabin and high-quality materials, contributing to a pleasant driving environment. Green Car Guide emphasizes the user-friendly layout and ample headroom, making it practical for families. Auto Express and Autocar also appreciate the comfortable seating and thoughtful interior design.
Infotainment and Technology
The infotainment system in the Kia Soul EV stands out as a major positive. e-Cars and Move Electric praise the intuitive interface and advanced features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Green Car Guide and Auto Express highlight the high-resolution display and ease of use, making it one of the best in its class. Autocar notes the inclusion of numerous driver assistance features, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Cargo Space
The Soul EV offers competitive cargo space, with e-Cars and Green Car Guide noting its practicality for daily use. Auto Express and Move Electric find the boot space adequate, though not as expansive as some competitors. Autocar appreciates the thoughtful under-floor storage for charging cables, adding to the vehicle’s utility.
Value for Money
The Kia Soul EV is seen as a strong value proposition by e-Cars and Move Electric, offering a good mix of features and affordability. Green Car Guide and Auto Express agree that while the pricing is competitive, potential buyers should consider the vehicle’s range limitations relative to its cost. Autocar suggests that despite some drawbacks, the overall package offers reasonable value for urban commuters.
Source Links
- e-Cars Review – James Disdale
- Green Car Guide Review – Paul Clarke
- Auto Express Review – Lawrence Allan, Dawn Grant
- Autocar Review – Illya Verpraet
- Move Electric Review