2020 Kia Soul GT-Line Car Seat Check & Family Vehicle Review

Overview: Kia Soul GT-Line Steps Up Its Family Game

The 2020 Kia Soul GT-Line continues to defy conventional design, offering a unique boxy profile paired with bold styling updates and a new base engine. While the model still proudly showcases its quirky character, it makes a noticeable leap forward in comfort, convenience, and family-friendliness. One of the most critical tests for any family vehicle, however, is how well it accommodates child safety seats. In this detailed review, MotorVero examines the Kia Soul’s child seat compatibility through a full car seat check to determine whether this compact crossover can stand up to daily parenting demands.

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How Child-Friendly Is the 2020 Kia Soul?

Designed with urban agility and practicality in mind, the 2020 Kia Soul offers ample headroom, easy maneuverability, and a surprisingly spacious cargo area. But what about families with young children? Does the Soul GT-Line meet expectations when it comes to installing child car seats safely and efficiently?

Let’s break down the performance of the LATCH system, available space for child seats, and the ease of installation for different types of car seats, including infant carriers, convertible seats, and boosters.

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Evaluating the LATCH System

B Grade

The 2020 Soul GT-Line comes equipped with two sets of lower LATCH anchors positioned about a half-inch into the seat bight. While this setup is functional, the GT-Line’s stiff upholstery demands a bit of effort to locate and securely connect to the anchors. Fortunately, three tether anchors located halfway down the seatback are easy to access and use effectively.

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Infant Car Seat Compatibility

B Grade

Installing an infant car seat involves some muscle due to the firm seat material, but the process remains manageable. The front passenger had enough legroom even after securing the infant seat behind them. Although not class-leading in ease of use, the Kia Soul performs reasonably well for families with newborns.

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Rear-Facing Convertible Seat Fit

B Grade

The rear-facing convertible seat poses similar challenges to the infant seat, with anchor connection requiring some force. However, the fit once installed is solid, and the passenger space up front remains uncompromised. It’s an acceptable solution for growing toddlers.

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Forward-Facing Convertible Seat Installation

B Grade

When switching to a forward-facing setup, users must remove the head restraint to ensure a snug fit. The seat fits well post-adjustment, although installation to the lower anchors still requires effort. Connecting the top tether necessitates removing the cargo cover, which may be inconvenient for some users but not a deal-breaker.

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Booster Seat Performance

A Grade

Booster seat integration is where the Kia Soul shines. After adjusting the head restraint, the booster fits well, and the seat belt buckles remain upright and stable. This feature helps children buckle themselves in independently, enhancing convenience and encouraging self-sufficiency.

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Interior Space & Practicality

Though rear legroom in the 2020 Kia Soul sees a slight reduction compared to previous models, overall space remains family-friendly. Two child seats fit comfortably in the back row without encroaching significantly on front passenger comfort. Cargo space is marginally increased, and with the seats folded down, families benefit from versatile hauling options for strollers, groceries, and gear.

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Family-Oriented Features

• Ample Headroom: Tall roofline ensures enough vertical space for child seats and adult passengers alike.
• Wide Rear Doors: Make it easier to load and remove car seats.
• Stable Belt Buckles: Assist kids learning to buckle up on their own.
• Good Visibility: Improves driver awareness when children are present in the cabin.
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Final Verdict: Is the Kia Soul GT-Line a Good Family Car?

With a bold personality and practical design, the 2020 Kia Soul GT-Line successfully blends fun with functionality. While minor drawbacks such as firm upholstery and tight LATCH anchor placement exist, they do not overshadow the Soul’s overall performance in accommodating child safety seats. The model proves to be a viable option for urban families seeking affordability, reliability, and versatility in a compact footprint.

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Why Families Are Choosing the Kia Soul

Parents today need more than just space—they need smart design, safety, and adaptability. The 2020 Kia Soul GT-Line addresses these demands without sacrificing character or efficiency. With its user-friendly booster seat compatibility, adaptable interior, and competitive pricing, it stands as a compelling option for growing families on the move.

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Helpful Tips for Car Seat Installation

• Always consult the vehicle’s owner manual and the car seat manual before installation.
• Use a rolled towel or pool noodle to adjust the angle for rear-facing seats.
• Ensure the tether strap is snug and the anchor is not twisted.
• Double-check seat movement—less than 1 inch of movement at the belt path is acceptable.

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