The 2014 Kia Soul marked a major redesign for Kia’s quirky compact crossover. Known for its boxy shape and youthful appeal, the 2014 model brought improved interior quality, a smoother ride, and modern tech features. It became a popular choice among urban drivers, students, and small families looking for a car that stands out without sacrificing practicality.
This full guide dives deep into the features, performance, pros and cons, and real-world experience of owning the 2014 Kia Soul.
What’s New in the 2014 Kia Soul?
A Full Redesign
The 2014 model year introduced the second generation of the Kia Soul.
Some of the biggest updates included:
- A stronger and more rigid chassis for improved ride comfort
- Slightly larger dimensions for more interior space
- New engine tuning for better efficiency
- Redesigned cabin with higher-quality materials
- Updated exterior styling while retaining the iconic boxy shape
Kia worked hard to address criticisms of the previous generation, resulting in a more refined and capable compact crossover.
2014 Kia Soul Engine Options
Powertrain Choices
The 2014 Kia Soul offered two engine options:
- 1.6-liter inline-4 producing 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque
- 2.0-liter inline-4 delivering 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque
Transmission options included:
- A 6-speed manual transmission (standard on base models)
- A 6-speed automatic transmission (optional and standard on higher trims)
The larger 2.0-liter engine provided more satisfying acceleration, especially for highway driving or carrying passengers and cargo.
Fuel Economy of the 2014 Kia Soul
Efficiency Ratings
Fuel efficiency was one of the selling points of the 2014 Kia Soul:
- 1.6L engine with manual transmission: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 2.0L engine with automatic transmission: 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
While not the absolute best in class, the Soul’s fuel economy was respectable, particularly considering its boxy aerodynamic profile.
Interior Features and Comfort
Premium Feel in a Small Package
The cabin of the 2014 Kia Soul received major praise for its design and quality:
- Soft-touch dashboard materials
- Available leather upholstery and heated front and rear seats
- Panoramic sunroof option
- Intuitive touchscreen infotainment system
- Ambient lighting options with color-changing features
Rear-seat passengers also benefited from generous legroom, making the Soul a practical choice even for taller passengers.
Technology and Infotainment
Connected and Entertained
Tech lovers found a lot to like in the 2014 Kia Soul:
- Available 8-inch touchscreen with UVO eServices
- Optional navigation system
- Bluetooth connectivity standard on most trims
- USB ports and auxiliary inputs
- Premium Infinity audio system available for music lovers
Kia made sure that the Soul stayed ahead of the curve when it came to in-car technology and entertainment.
Safety Ratings and Features
Strong Safety Record
The 2014 Kia Soul earned excellent safety scores:
- NHTSA overall rating: 5 out of 5 stars
- IIHS Top Safety Pick
Standard and available safety features included:
- Antilock brakes
- Stability and traction control
- Front-seat side airbags
- Full-length curtain airbags
- Rearview camera (available)
- Parking sensors (available)
These features made the Soul not only fun but also reassuring for daily driving and family use.
Driving Experience
On the Road
The 2014 Kia Soul was known for its comfortable and composed ride:
- Improved body rigidity reduced cabin vibrations
- New suspension tuning handled bumps and potholes better
- Steering felt responsive and direct
- Road and wind noise were noticeably reduced from the previous generation
The Soul maintained its playful driving personality while becoming more refined and suitable for longer trips.
Common Issues Reported by Owners
Things to Watch Out For
While overall reliability was strong, some owners reported:
- Occasional minor electrical glitches with infotainment systems
- Premature wear on suspension components in high-mileage vehicles
- Paint quality concerns in a few cases
- Road salt corrosion issues in colder climates
Proper maintenance and addressing small issues early helped most owners enjoy trouble-free driving.
Who Should Buy the 2014 Kia Soul?
Ideal Buyers
The 2014 Kia Soul is a great choice for:
- Urban drivers needing maneuverability and practicality
- First-time car buyers looking for value
- Young families needing a versatile small vehicle
- Drivers wanting unique style without breaking the bank
- Tech-savvy individuals valuing modern connectivity features
The Soul’s combination of affordability, style, and equipment made it a standout in the compact crossover segment.
Pros and Cons of the 2014 Kia Soul
Key Advantages
- Distinctive and stylish design
- Spacious and high-quality interior
- Strong safety ratings
- Good tech features even in base models
- Comfortable ride and easy handling
Potential Drawbacks
- Boxy shape affects highway fuel economy slightly
- Base engine feels underpowered for some
- Limited off-road ability despite SUV-like looks
Still, for most buyers in the city or suburbs, these drawbacks were minor compared to the Soul’s overall value.
Maintenance and Ownership Costs
Affordability Factor
The 2014 Kia Soul continued Kia’s reputation for affordability:
- Low average repair costs compared to competitors
- Reasonable parts pricing
- Good resale value, especially for well-maintained models
Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (originally included) added peace of mind for second-hand buyers as well.
FAQs about the 2014 Kia Soul
Is the 2014 Kia Soul reliable?
Yes, the 2014 Kia Soul is considered reliable with proper maintenance. It consistently earns above-average reliability scores from major automotive rating organizations.
What engine options are available in the 2014 Kia Soul?
The 2014 Soul offers a 1.6L inline-4 engine and a more powerful 2.0L inline-4 engine for those needing extra performance.
How much cargo space does the 2014 Kia Soul offer?
The 2014 Soul offers 24.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 61.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Does the 2014 Kia Soul have Bluetooth?
Yes, Bluetooth connectivity is standard on most trims of the 2014 Kia Soul, making hands-free communication easy.
What are common problems with the 2014 Kia Soul?
Minor electrical glitches and suspension wear are the most commonly reported issues, though they are not widespread and typically easy to fix.