The 2025 Kia Soul is a standout economy car that has caught my attention for all the right reasons. Kia has introduced a new Soulmate Edition at the top-of-the-line EX trim level, replacing the previous EX Designer Package.
This new edition adds some exciting upgrades like 18-inch alloy wheels, a stylish Umber interior color, a two-tone roof, and the impressive Harmon Cardon audio system. Additionally, you’ll find lower body cladding and Syntax SL cloth seating, all for an extra $1,000 compared to the standard EX model.
For those considering the Soul, I personally recommend sticking with the S model. It offers a balanced package with 16-inch alloy wheels, making it one of the smoothest riding versions available. The S trim also includes practical features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and a power driver’s seat. It’s a no-brainer choice if you’re serious about getting the most out of your Soul experience.
Under the hood, the 2025 Soul packs a 2.0L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine delivering 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Its fuel efficiency is commendable, achieving 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
This front-wheel-drive vehicle is not only efficient but also backed by Kia’s solid warranty, providing coverage for 10 years or 100,000 miles—a reassuring feature for long-term ownership.
While the Soul itself offers great value and reliability, current offers and incentives from Kia for the 2024 model year seem a bit lackluster. Deals like a 3.9% interest rate for 48 months and a $750 customer cash offer are available, but they might not stack with low-interest financing. For the best deal, aim to negotiate at least 5% off the MSRP when purchasing your Kia Soul.
In terms of financing, it’s worth noting that paying cash outright might not be the wisest financial move. Leaving your money in a savings account could potentially yield higher returns over the long term due to compounding interest.
This is a topic I’ve explored in detail in another video, highlighting the benefits of leveraging low-cost financing against cash payments.
For those considering other Kia models like the Seltos or Sportage, the financing landscape varies, with options like a 3.9% interest rate for 48 months on the Seltos and a lower 1.9% rate for the Sportage, albeit at a higher price point.
In summary, the 2025 Kia Soul with its new Soulmate Edition brings incremental updates and remains a solid choice in the economy car segment. With its blend of style, efficiency, and Kia’s renowned warranty, it promises to be a reliable companion for years to come.
