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2014 Kia Soul Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: 2014 kia soul + versus 2012 kia soul +......NOT an improvement. by jrexplore

jrexplore

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Reviewed: 2014 Kia Soul

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Why the 2014 Kia Soul?

Handling

Kia improved the suspension on the 2014 model, an improvement that was sorely needed. The revised suspension handles potholes, bumps, and pavement joints much better than the previous version.

Front seat room

Excellent room both up front and in the backseat for tall people. Same as previous model

Driving position & visibility

The driving position is excellent for a variety of driver sizes. All around visibility has not changed, remains excellent

Why Not the 2014 Kia Soul?

Powertrain performance

The change to direct injection is a step backwards. Despite the official HP stats ,This 2.0 direct in jection engine is weaker than the previous 2.0 intake port injected engine. Even using the manual shifting side of the tranny to keep revs up, the engine just gives up on long uphills. Other drivers have reported the same problem . In the city, the difference is not very noticeable.

Front seat support & comfort

The front seat is every bit as uncomfortable as the previous model. No improvement here. A tall person will be more comfortable sitting in the rear seat.

Other Features of the 2014 Kia Soul

Powertrain performance

After driving both the 2012 model and the 2014 model, I would rather have the more responsive motor in the 2012 and spend some money on the suspension to bring it up to the level of the 2014 model. I don't think trying to squeeze out more power from the 2014 model would be cost effective. Both motors are already highly tuned engines, getting over 160 HP from only 2.0 Litres displacement, so there is not much room for improvement to engine power.

Exterior styling

The 2012 model is more pleasing to look at than the 2014 model. In particular, the rear window and door on the 2014 look like the result of a committee decision- pretty mixed up.

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