Preview: 2017 Kia Soul Turbo
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The all-new 2017 Kia Soul Turbo packs quite a punch under the hood.
Now with 201 horsepower and 196 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged 1.6L engine, the Soul Turbo gets a big bump in performance and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to manage the extra power. Kia says the new transmission, provides “smoother shift points and no ‘shift shock’, which makes for a more dynamic acceleration and contributes to a more engaging driving experience.”
It also, according to Kia, gets better fuel economy than the two less-powerful engines (normally aspirated 2.0L and 1.6L) in the Soul fleet.
As you can see from the images, the Soul Turbo also receives new trim items including exclusive 18-inch wheels, red-accented body trim, chrome grille surround, unique Soul tailgate badge and a dual-tipped Soul tailgate badge.
Standard equipment will include a leather-wrapped D-shaped steering wheel, push-button start with smart key and integrated services via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Also available are a 315-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system with eight speakers, and navigation and an eight-inch touchscreen.
New options for 2017 include rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot detection.
As presented in Los Angeles, the Soul Turbo will be available with new colours, redesigned headlights and foglights, along with changes to the front and rear fasciae that suggest, “a more aggressive appearance.” Two dedicated USB charge ports and an eight-way power passenger seat add convenience and comfort, says Kia.
The Kia Soul – really the first of the “new” Kia models and one of its most popular models – is currently offered in 11 configurations in Canada, ranging in price from $17,195 to $27,495. Presumably the Soul Turbo will slot in at the higher end. Pricing and availability to come shortly.
