2023 Kia Soul: welcomed changes

2023 Kia Soul: welcomed changes

The third generation of the Kia Soul showed up in the summer of 2019 on our market as a 2020 model. For 2023, the little SUV gets some cosmetic tweaks that only enhance its appeal.


The changes aren't major, but they are very welcome. Let's take a look.


First of all, there are improvements to the model's styling. Don't worry, the 2023 Soul is still recognizable with its unique square shape, which is what makes it unique on the market. However, the addition of a large new grille up front, as well as the new bumper and headlight design, makes a great impression. In the case of the latter, they are more menacing, which adds to the character of the model. And note the new Kia logo in the center; doesn't it stand out?


At the rear, the 2023 Kia Soul's bumper has also been redesigned, but the cut is less drastic with the current model. There are also new exhaust tips. New designs for the 17- and 18-inch wheels are also noteworthy.


Kia is also announcing new colors, as well as two all-new two-tone approaches. We'll have to wait and see if the Canadian offerings will benefit; there are sometimes small differences between the offerings on either side of the border. The same goes for the versions when some of them fall on our neighbors. We're still expecting the same lineup here, namely the LX, EX, EX+, EX Premium and GT-Line variants.


Mechanically, the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine will continue to deliver 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Its capacity is well channeled by a continuously variable transmission (CVT).


Finally, in terms of safety, the offer is enhanced with several new standard features. For example, front collision avoidance assist is now standard on all models. It also includes pedestrian detection. Lane keeping assist, driver attention detection, and rear seat alert are now standard, too.


The 2023 Kia Soul will arrive a little later in the summer and the price range will be announced at that time.