Kia Revamps Soul For The 2023 Model Year But Loses Turbo And X-Line Trim

It is almost as if the Kia Soul isn’t even in existence as the Korean manufacturer seems to be focusing on other vehicles in its ever-growing lineup. Now that has changed as the Soul has been revamped for the 2023 model year with the Turbo and X-Line trim dropped.

Starting with the exterior, the 2023 Soul is distinguished by the single headlights (optional LEDs) which no longer feature the split design of its predecessor. The front bumper is redesigned with slim DRLs, aluminium-style trim and a large central intake featuring a modern pattern in the pictured GT-Line model. Other changes include new designs for the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels, a slightly tweaked rear bumper, and two new duo-tone colour options, Clear White and Surf Blue, both combined with a Fusion Black Roof.

Kia kept most of the interior design because it believes in preserving what works. The most notable change is the addition of a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with integrated navigation. It’s standard on all models apart from the base LX. New for 2023 is the LX Technology Package bundling safety tech such as Blind Spot Collision Avoidance and Rear Cross Collision Avoidance with 16-inch wheels. The GT-Line Package adds a Harman Kardon sound system with speaker lights that pulse in time with the music, heated front seats, forward collision avoidance assist with junction turning capability, highway drive assists, navigation-based smart cruise control, an electronic parking brake, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, LED headlights and taillights, a cargo cover, and a dual-level cargo floor.

As stated before, the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, making 201 hp and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque, is not part of the offering anymore. Instead, the 2023 Soul is offered exclusively with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit, which is still rated at 147 hp and 132 lb-ft (178 Nm), mated to the brand’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (CVT). 

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