2014 Kia Soul EU-Version - Specification and premium features

The all-new 2014 Kia Soul urban crossover, made its European debut at the 2013 IAA in Frankfurt. The smooth new-look exterior is inspired by the 2012 Kia Track'ster concept and introduces a thoroughly fresh, more grown-up appearance without losing its individualistic edge.

Although the new Soul is 'all-new' - none of the exterior body panels are carried over, and the interior is a new design - the 2014 Soul's upright stance, squared shoulders, wraparound greenhouse, high-mounted tail lights and confidence-inspiring ride height are all hallmark design elements which will ensure the new model is instantly recognisable as a Soul.

"The Soul has attracted a loyal following among Kia buyers, so it was important that the all-new model remained true to the original iconic design. Beyond design, our main focus was infusing it with improved driving dynamics, developing a higher-quality cabin and adding desirable features that improve the Soul's appeal, value and sophistication," commented Benny Oeyen, Vice President Marketing and Product Planning, Kia Motors Europe.

"Keeping what made the current Soul special while addressing areas for improvement presented Kia's American design studio in California and engineers in Korea with a tough challenge. Many of the Track'ster's dramatic design elements - first seen in 2012 - can now be found in the new Soul. Kia has maintained the iconic design while adding modern styling cues to make the 2014 Soul even more desirable," added Oeyen.

Promising a more rewarding ownership experience, the 2014 Soul will be available in Europe with a range of new premium features (depending on model), including: front LED lights and rear LED 'halo' lights; xenon headlights; keyless entry and push-button engine start; automatic climate control air-conditioning; cruise control; leather seat trim; ventilated front seats; heated front and rear seats; panoramic glass sunroof; and heated exterior mirrors. An optional Infinity sound system - tuned specifically for the new Soul - will also be available.

The new Kia Soul will be equipped, subject to final individual market specifications, with a number of safety and convenience features to further give the new vehicle a 'big car' feel. These features include: High Beam Assist - a first for Kia in Europe - Parallel Parking Assist System and a Lane Departure Warning System.

The new Soul will also carry over the outgoing model's reputation for customization. When the car goes on sale in 2014, buyers will be able to choose between up to 11 exterior paint finishes, as well as three different roof colours - black, white and red. Eight different alloy wheel designs - ranging from 16-inch to 18-inch in size - will be available, including four new designs with coloured inserts to contrast - or match - the body colour.