The Kia Soul has proven to be a winner for Kia in terms of sales with the 2023 model enhancing the design and technology for buyers in its latest round of updates. However, this has come at a cost, with Kia confirming that the spicy turbo model is getting the ax in 2023.
Slight Tweaks Maintain Core Soul Essentials
Unlike other mid-cycle updates, the Soul’s takes a lighter approach when it comes to its exterior updates. The front fascia has the most noticeable improvements with the headlights being larger than before while the lower lights appear to have vanished. The rear also gets some light touch-up work and Kia is offering new paint and wheel combinations here too.
The interior largely carries over from the old model but virtually all models now come with a standard 10.25-inch infotainment system (the LX is the lone exception to the rule.) In addition to the GT-Line Turbo being pitched, the rugged-looking X-Line model is also gone with the former still being present as a non-turbocharged style package. That means all models will come with the 2.0 liter naturally aspirated four which is good for 147 hp and is mated to a CVT.
The axing of the turbo engine allowed Kia engineers to add more safety equipment across the board with all trims benefitting from goodies such as automatic emergency braking, rear occupant alert, lane-centering technology, and more.
When Can I Buy One?
Kia didn’t release pricing on the 2023 Soul yet, but did confirm that the model will arrive in Kia dealerships this summer. Look for the model to retain its $20,000 base price with the rest of the pricing ladder being tweaked to reflect the absence of the GT-Line Turbo and X-Line models from the Soul family.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.