There’s a saying that all good things eventually come to an end—and in the automotive world, that often means saying goodbye to beloved models. At the close of the 2025 model year, Kia announced it would retire the spirited Soul from its vehicle lineup. Still, the automaker plans to celebrate the Soul’s legacy by honoring its distinctive personality, impressive versatility, and the one-of-a-kind character it brought to the Kia brand.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul became one of the most easily recognizable vehicles on the road, thanks to its bold, boxy silhouette and signature design details. Over its 15-year production run, the Soul helped Kia establish a stronger presence in the U.S. market and continued to serve as one of the brand’s most iconic nameplates. Since 2009, Kia has sold more than 1.5 million Soul models in the U.S. alone, appealing especially to younger drivers and those who are, as Kia puts it, “young at heart.”
Inspired By Nature
The Soul’s design story is as distinctive as the vehicle itself. Its unconventional shape was inspired by a nature documentary the design team happened to be watching—featuring wild boars. The team envisioned a vehicle that reflected the small but powerful stature of the animal, emphasizing strength, agility, and purpose-driven design. By combining that inspiration with SUV-like practicality, they created an edgy, adaptable, and fun-to-drive compact crossover that allowed drivers to express themselves through various customization options.
About The Kia Soul
Throughout its production, the Kia Soul remained a favorite among fans and critics alike. In its final model year, it earned a #2 ranking in the extra-small SUV segment, praised for its roomy interior, flexible design, and engaging driving dynamics. The Soul consistently delivered exceptional value, offering more standard features than many of its rivals. Over time, it also evolved with new technology, enhanced safety systems, and special edition models that kept the lineup fresh and exciting.
Kia Soul Awards
Over its lifetime, the Soul amassed an impressive list of accolades that reflected its standout design and dependability. Among its many honors were the “Automotive Excellence Award” from Popular Mechanics, recognition as one of the “10 Best Interiors” in 2014, and the IIHS Top Safety Pick distinction in 2010.
Contact us today to learn more about the Kia Soul and its lasting impact on the Kia family.