Vehicle Overview
The 2008 Kia Soul 1.6 Base pioneered the subcompact crossover segment with its boxy profile and versatile cabin. Debuting in 2008, this 5-door model delivers urban agility, practical interior packaging, and a distinctive look.
| Segment | Subcompact crossover |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV-inspired hatch |
| Model Year | 2008 |
| Trim | 1.6 Base |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive, 4-speed automatic (manual optional) |
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6 L inline-4 petrol |
| Power | 122 hp @ 6,300 rpm |
| Torque | 115 lb-ft (156 Nm) @ 4,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic (optional 5-speed manual) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| 0–60 mph | 10.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 110 mph |
| Wheelbase | 2,550 mm (100.4 in) |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 4,140 × 1,800 × 1,610 mm |
| Curb Weight | 1,245 kg (2,745 lb) |
| Boot Capacity | 302 L (10.7 cu ft) |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city / 32 mpg highway |
Exterior Design
The Soul’s upright stance and bold details stand out in traffic:
Boxy silhouette with a flat roof—maximizes interior volume
High-mounted headlights and black grille surround for a youthful face
Clamshell hood and squared wheel arches add rugged flair
16″ steel wheels standard; 17″ alloys optional
| Colour options | Inferno Red, Bright Silver, Shadow Blue |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Roomy cabin with playful touches
| Seats | Cloth upholstery with patterned inserts |
| Trim | Soft-touch upper dash, painted accents on console |
| Space | Exceptional headroom and legroom for a subcompact |
| Storage | Deep door pockets, center console bin, and under-floor cubbies |
| Ergonomics | Tilt steering and large, intuitive controls |
Features & Infotainment
Essential tech for daily driving
AM/FM/CD audio with MP3 playback and AUX input
4-speaker system; optional 6-speaker upgrade available
Manual air conditioning standard
Power windows/locks, remote keyless entry
| Optional | Bluetooth® hands-free, USB port |
Safety & Ratings
Basic safety equipment for its era
| NHTSA | 4-star overall crash rating |
| Standard systems | ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control |
| Airbags | Dual front, side-thorax, and curtain airbags |
| Child safety | LATCH anchors and rear door locks |
Driving Performance
Balanced for city streets and highways
| Acceleration | 0–60 mph in 10.6 s—adequate for merging |
| Handling | MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear suspension tuned for comfort |
| Ride Quality | Compliant damping soaks up urban potholes |
| Steering | Electric-assist for light, precise control |
Fuel Efficiency
Frugal for everyday use
| Real-world | Mid-20s mpg city; low-30s on the highway |
| Fuel Tank | 50 L (~13.2 gal) for ~400 mi of mixed driving |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
Versatile layout suits cargo and passengers
| Boot space | 302 L behind seats; 975 L with 60:40 rear folded |
| Ingress/Egress | Tall ride height eases entry |
| Visibility | Large greenhouse and upright pillars for clear sight lines |
| Cargo solutions | Under-floor tray, flat load floor with seats down |
Warranty & Maintenance
Basic coverage and low upkeep
| Basic Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 mi |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years / 100,000 mi |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Service Intervals | 12 months / 10,000 mi |
Price & Value for Money
Attractive pricing for a niche crossover
| US MSRP | From $13,900 |
Key Options
5-speed manual (+$600)
Bluetooth® package (+$350)
17″ alloy wheels (+$500)
| Value Note | Offers unique styling and versatility at a subcompact price |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | 0–60 mph | Boot (L) | Economy (mpg) | From Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Soul 1.6 Base (2008) | 10.6 s | 302 | 26 / 32 | $13,900 |
| Scion xB (2008) | 10.3 s | 388 | 24 / 31 | $14,200 |
| Nissan Cube (2009) | 11.0 s | 319 | 23 / 29 | $13,800 |
| Ford Fiesta SES (2010) | 9.8 s | 296 | 28 / 34 | $14,500 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Spacious, airy cabin for a subcompact crossover
Distinctive boxy styling stands out
Versatile cargo area with flat load floor
Strong warranty backing for powertrain
Cons
Basic infotainment lacking modern connectivity
Engine performance modest under load
Ride quality can feel bouncy on rough roads
Overall Rating
4.0 / 5 stars
We award it 4.0 / 5 for its blend of practicality, unique styling, and value-packed versatility in the subcompact crossover segment.
Final Verdict
The 2008 Kia Soul 1.6 Base is ideal for urban drivers seeking a roomy, quirky, and practical crossover that breaks from the ordinary. Its cargo flexibility, comfortable cabin, and distinctive look make it a compelling choice for those wanting something different in the subcompact class.
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Kia Soul 1.6 Base is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kia Soul 1.6 Base good for UK roads?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.