Kia expands Soul line-up with new trims and smaller battery option

Kia has expanded the model line-up for the Soul EV with two new versions.

A base ‘Urban’ model with a 39.2kWh battery, costing from £32,795, has been introduced.

It offers a range of 171 miles (WLTP) and has a power output of 136PS.

The existing Maxx grade has been replaced by the ‘Explore’, which comes with 64kWh long-range battery and costs £38,995.

As the range-topping model, the Explore features a higher specification and has an increased power output of 204PS.

Both versions can be recharged from 0-80% in 54 minutes, using an 80kW rapid charger.

In 2021, Soul EV registrations were up 28% compared to the previous year, with just one model on offer.

The anticipated best-seller is the 64kWh Explore grade, which can cover 280 miles between charges.

Urban models are equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, reversing camera, adaptive cruise control, lane follow assist and LED headlamps.

Explore adds a 10.25-inch touchscreen, free seven-year Kia Connect connectivity services, rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, blind spot monitor and roof rails.

The Soul EV is the smallest of Kia UK’s current three battery electric vehicle line-up, joined by the recently launched all-new Niro EV and the EV6 flagship.

In 2023, the production version of the EV9 will expand the trio and will become the largest battery electric vehicle in Kia’s line-up.

The brand plans to launch 14 EV models by 2027 globally.

> Interested in comparing electric vehicle data? Check out our EV tool.

> Interested in ensuring the efficient use of EVs. Check out our dedicated editorial sections: Insight & policy | EV news | Charging & infrastructure | Costs & incentives | Benefit-in-kind | EV case studies | EV road tests

> EVs by range

> EVs by their efficiency

> Rapid charging EVs

> EVs by price: lowest to highest