CARS OF THE WORLD

Kia Soul 2024.

Kia updates the most reliable crossover in the world, offering more protection for the driver.

Kia updates Soul crossover for 2024 model year.

The Korean company introduced the updated Kia Soul 2024. This model is considered one of the most reliable crossovers in the world according to the results of an independent analysis.

The price of the car went up slightly after the upgrade. However, all changes are mostly subtle.

So, buyers were offered new 18-inch wheels, finishing materials (including artificial leather) and a smart key with a “sleep” mode that automatically locks the doors after 40 seconds.

This solution will protect drivers from crossover theft. Also, the Korean model acquired lane keeping assistants, collision avoidance and a number of others that are already available with the initial versions. US prices start at $19,990.

The new Kia Soul 2024 body is based on the new K2 modular platform and has a stronger body structure.

The Koreans managed to achieve the latter through the widespread use of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel grades, the share of which here reaches 70.1%.

The suspension design of the model is quite standard: MacPherson struts in front, and a semi-independent torsion beam in the back.

At the same time, anti-roll bars are installed on both axles of the car. The brakes in a circle are disc, and the front is also ventilated.

Crossover KIA Soul III has the following overall dimensions, mm

Length — 4 195
Width — 1 800
Height — 1610-1625
Wheelbase — 2 600
Ground clearance (clearance) — 170-180

According to the automaker, the trunk volume of the car is 364 liters (1,388 liters with the rear seats folded down).

All versions are equipped with a 54-liter fuel tank. The curb weight of the vehicle ranges from 1,300 to 1,412 kg (depending on specification).

At Kia Soul 2023, the ground clearance was increased in the new body (from 160 to 180 mm), while the SUV began to be perceived somewhat tougher, which is especially noticeable on 18-inch wheels.

The suspension of the model practically does not filter road bumps, so even when driving on smooth asphalt, a vibration background can be observed on the floor and steering wheel.

On bad roads, shaking cannot be avoided at all, although breakdowns are not observed even when driving through unpleasant joints and potholes.

The new Soul of the 3rd generation is not the owner of bright dynamics, and even with the gas pedal squeezed to the floor, the speed increase is very smooth.

Even the “heated” version of the GT-Line standing alone cannot be called a driver’s car.

However, the latter steers fervently in a sporty way, although you have to pay for such taxiing with even more stringent suspension settings.

The landing of the new Kia Soul 2024 is high, and the front seats are quite free, do not shine with a sporty relief and have a short pillow, which not everyone will like.

Given the compact dimensions, the second row here is surprisingly spacious, and in all directions — you can drive such a car with five people, while you don’t have to sacrifice trunk space.

Visibility from the cab of the South Korean model is good. Dimensions feel good, which allows you to park without a rear view camera.

Plus, the quality of interior design and its ergonomics pleases: the interior looks modern, and all the controls here are exactly where they should be.