The 2024 Soul offers something increasingly uncommon: a tall, boxy small hatchback whose practicality does not depend on pretending to be a traditional off-road vehicle. This is the third-generation SK3 Soul in US guise, and its distinctive shape makes headroom, upright doors and a square cargo opening part of its appeal. It is not an all-wheel-drive crossover just because dealers group it with SUVs.
Powertrains and market-specific specifications
Kia's manufacturer announcement confirms a single 2.0-litre multipoint-injected four-cylinder rated at 147 hp and 132 lb-ft for the US 2024 car. A variable automatic transmission sends power to the front wheels. The GT-Line is a style-focused version rather than a hidden 201-hp turbo model; assuming earlier-generation turbo specifications would give a buyer false performance expectations.
Equipment, usability and model-year changes
The visible change for model year 2024 is the EX Designer Package, including distinct wheels and interior trim. On examples with the smart-key system, Kia also describes a security-related sleep mode after the car is locked. Check the actual key, feature operation and equipment record rather than presenting the package as fitted to all cars. Tall roof and hatch access are more consequential than decorative details for many city owners.
Used-buyer inspection and ownership trade-offs
Used inspection should include close examination of the upright tailgate, loading lip, parking scrapes and cabin wear. Confirm the transmission runs smoothly, inspect the tyres and evaluate driver-assistance features during a proper road test. Request documented maintenance and resolve any open manufacturer campaigns by VIN. A narrow city car often lives in tight garages, so bodywork condition matters.
Which buyers should consider it?
The Soul is attractive to buyers who need cabin height in a short footprint and would rather have simple front-wheel-drive running gear than a larger SUV. A Seltos offers more of a crossover appearance and available AWD; a Mazda3 hatchback drives with a lower stance and different cargo shape. Base a final decision on access and visibility, not a claimed reliability ranking without independent data.