2020 Kia Soul Review: A Clever, Boxy Alternative to Subcompact SUVs

Why the Boxy Kia Soul Deserves a Closer Look

There’s something inherently charming about boxy cars. The 2020 Kia Soul, with its upright design and youthful attitude, strikes a unique balance between funky styling and smart packaging. Often mistaken as just another quirky hatchback, the Soul subtly checks all the boxes that SUV shoppers crave—without the inflated cost.

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Smarter Use of Footprint: Design With Purpose

Unlike most traditional sedans, the Kia Soul optimizes space through vertical design. This architecture not only enhances interior room but also gives the Soul its distinct character. The high roofline and squared-off rear allow the vehicle to maximize cargo capacity and passenger comfort within a compact footprint. Think of it as a crossover’s brain in a hatchback’s body.

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Exceptional Cargo Space: Big Surprises in a Small Package

When it comes to hauling gear, the 2020 Soul impresses. With the rear seats folded flat, it delivers an impressive 62.1 cubic feet of cargo space—more than many subcompact SUVs including the Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota C-HR, and Nissan Kicks. Even with the seats up, it offers 24.2 cubic feet, enough to stand full-size suitcases upright.

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Cabin Height and Headroom: A Breath of Fresh Air

Interior space isn’t just about legroom. The Soul excels in vertical comfort, offering a generous amount of headroom in both rows. Taller occupants will appreciate the upright seating position, and rear-seat passengers enjoy a spacious, airy feel—an advantage over more cramped rivals like the C-HR and HR-V.

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Driving Position: Feel Like You're Commanding an SUV

One often-overlooked perk of crossovers is the elevated driving position. The Kia Soul mimics this well. Thanks to its tall cabin structure and well-designed seat height, drivers enjoy excellent forward visibility and a sense of control that’s often missing in traditional hatchbacks or sedans.

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Daily Driving: Peppy and Practical

The 2020 Soul’s base engine may not be a powerhouse, but it offers more than adequate performance for urban and highway commuting. Paired with a refined suspension and nimble handling, the Soul delivers a surprisingly smooth and composed ride for a vehicle in its class.

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The Elephant in the Room: No All-Wheel Drive

Admittedly, the Soul is front-wheel-drive only—something that may turn away those looking for snow-ready confidence. However, it’s worth noting that direct competitors like the Toyota C-HR and Nissan Kicks are also FWD. Unless your lifestyle demands off-road prowess, the Soul’s traction should suffice for most road conditions.

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Value Proposition: A Wallet-Friendly Urban Warrior

Starting at a base price over $1,000 less than the Nissan Kicks, $3,000 less than the Honda HR-V, and nearly $4,000 under the Toyota C-HR, the Kia Soul delivers unmatched value. With features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a user-friendly infotainment system, it outclasses expectations at every trim level.

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Safety and Technology: Smarter than Expected

The 2020 Soul offers a wide array of advanced safety features, especially in higher trims. These include lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Combined with Kia’s excellent warranty, it becomes a compelling choice for young drivers and small families alike.

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Fuel Economy: Efficient and Eco-Friendly

Fuel efficiency is another feather in the Soul’s cap. With an EPA rating of up to 33 mpg highway, it competes well with hybrid-adjacent crossovers, making it a practical option for cost-conscious drivers who don’t want to sacrifice utility.

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Interior Design: Quirky, Yet Functional

The Soul’s cabin blends youthful flair with ergonomic sensibility. Circular motifs, ambient lighting, and intuitive control layouts create a welcoming environment that’s both playful and easy to live with. Unlike rivals that lean too heavily on style, the Soul strikes a rare harmony between form and function.

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Versatility for All Lifestyles

Whether you’re a college student, urban commuter, or weekend adventurer, the Kia Soul adapts seamlessly. Fold down the rear seats to make room for sports equipment, groceries, or luggage. It’s a vehicle that grows with you, without the overhead of a full-blown SUV.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Funky Hatchback

The 2020 Kia Soul offers more than meets the eye. It defies segment conventions by providing SUV-like features, a roomy and versatile cabin, and excellent value—all wrapped in an unmistakably bold design. For drivers open to alternatives, the Soul stands tall as a smart, affordable, and surprisingly capable subcompact SUV alternative.