So I just read up on the 2025 Kia Soul, and I’m really curious about how it drives. The boxy design is still there, but it’s the performance that’s got me interested, especially with that turbo engine option. Anyone driven it yet or have thoughts on how it handles?
Yeah, I tried the GT-Line Turbo. Honestly, the 201 hp makes a huge difference. It’s actually pretty fun on highways, and the dual-clutch transmission feels super responsive.
Brynn said:
Yeah, I tried the GT-Line Turbo. Honestly, the 201 hp makes a huge difference. It’s actually pretty fun on highways, and the dual-clutch transmission feels super responsive.
201 hp sounds decent… does it feel quick off the line or just okay?
@Nathan
It’s definitely brisk! The acceleration is solid, especially compared to the base engine. Not like a sports car, but enough to enjoy merging and overtaking.
@Nathan
What’s a dual-clutch transmission? I’m not super familiar with car terms lol.
Joy said:
@Nathan
What’s a dual-clutch transmission? I’m not super familiar with car terms lol.
Oh, no worries! It’s a type of automatic transmission that shifts faster and smoother than a regular one. Makes driving feel sportier.
I’ve only driven the base 2.0L engine. It’s fine for city driving but feels a bit sluggish on steep hills. The IVT does a good job, but don’t expect thrilling performance.
MegWhitgal said:
I’ve only driven the base 2.0L engine. It’s fine for city driving but feels a bit sluggish on steep hills. The IVT does a good job, but don’t expect thrilling performance.
Yeah, I’ve got the base model too. Totally agree, it’s more of a chill ride. Good fuel efficiency tho.
MegWhitgal said:
I’ve only driven the base 2.0L engine. It’s fine for city driving but feels a bit sluggish on steep hills. The IVT does a good job, but don’t expect thrilling performance.
What’s IVT again? Sorry, I’m a bit out of the loop with these acronyms.
@Zachary
No worries! IVT stands for Intelligent Variable Transmission. It’s like a CVT but tweaked to feel more like traditional gears.
I read somewhere that it doesn’t have all-wheel drive. Bummer for anyone hoping to take it off-road. Still, it’s got decent ground clearance for light trails.
carmenpratschner said:
I read somewhere that it doesn’t have all-wheel drive. Bummer for anyone hoping to take it off-road. Still, it’s got decent ground clearance for light trails.
Yeah, I heard that too. Not a dealbreaker for me, but would’ve been nice to have AWD as an option.
Anyone know if the road noise is really that bad on highways? My current car drives me nuts with how loud it gets.
Cindy said:
Anyone know if the road noise is really that bad on highways? My current car drives me nuts with how loud it gets.
The cabin’s actually pretty quiet. They’ve used sound-deadening materials, so it’s better than older models. The turbo engine’s got more of a growl tho.
Fuel efficiency seems great on the 2.0L. 30 mpg in the city is solid. I’d love to hear real-world numbers from someone who’s driven it more.
Johnstone said:
Fuel efficiency seems great on the 2.0L. 30 mpg in the city is solid. I’d love to hear real-world numbers from someone who’s driven it more.
My buddy said he’s getting close to 32 mpg on his daily commute. Pretty impressive for a car that size.