All about the Kia e-Soul 64 kWh
- Accelerated AC charging (at home)
- Max AC power: 7.2 kW - Single-phase
- AC connector: Type 2
- DC fast charging
- Max DC power: 77 kW
- DC connector: Combo CCS
- Length: 4195 mm
- Width: 1800 mm
- Height: 1605 mm
- Trunk volume: 315 L/1339 L
- Empty weight: 1657 kg
An iconic SUV look
The sporty side of the new Kia e-Soul is integrated into the new SUV design as an option. The addition of wheel and rocker panel mouldings, and an aluminum-finish skid plate at the base of the front bumper and side skirts, give this new urban crossover a unique look.
Kia e-Soul 64 kWh video test drive
Test Drive Kia e-Soul 64 kWh: the long-range SUV
This is the new Kia e-Soul. It replaces its predecessor, the Kia Soul EV produced from 2014 to 2019. Performance has been revised upwards, with range and engine power doubled. The Soul EV's 200 km of range and 110 hp are increased to 452 km of range and 204 hp on the 2020 model of the e-Soul.
Based on the same technical platform as its cousin the Kia Niro EV, the e-Soul has the same 64 kWh battery and 150 kW motor. The Kia e-Soul is also available in a less expensive version with a 39.2 kWh battery and 100 kW motor, giving it a range of 276 km and 136 hp.
Kia has decided to abandon combustion engines for 2020. As a result, the Soul will be available exclusively in electric version. Among the design elements specific to the Kia electric range are the rims and the full grille, behind which is the charging port, and an 'eco-electric' badge, a reminder that this is an electric vehicle.
Taking its cue from the Kia Niro EV's rotary gear selector, the e-Soul nevertheless stands out with a rounded dashboard around a 10-inch touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. The Kia e-Soul continues its tradition of being a "funky" vehicle, with LEDs in the door inserts and speakers lighting up to the beat of the music.
Kia e-Soul 64 kWh test drive: the benchmark for quality and technology
We particularly appreciate the "Driver only" function.If you're driving alone, you'll save energy by heating or cooling only the driver and not the whole cabin.
The presence of a wireless charging area for the phone is also a nice addition, although you'll need to plug in the cable if you want to take advantage of Android Auto or Apple Carplay functionalities.
A driving experience worthy of the higher classes
On the road, the Kia e-Soul is particularly robust. The suspension is firm and gives an impression of sportiness. The e-Soul's character is very different from that of the e-Niro, which is more comfortable. As a result, the e-Soul rolls less when cornering, encouraging more dynamic driving.
But it's in the city that the e-Soul shines brightest. Its rapid acceleration and compact size are perfect for tackling the urban jungle. The electric motor's instant responsiveness means you can leave everyone else behind at a green light, and its smooth ride makes it a real city pro.
With its 450 km range, the Kia e-Soul is not limited to city driving. It swallows up kilometers like a big one, and acceleration is always excellent, even at highway speeds where its internal combustion counterparts lag a little behind.
Four adults will inevitably be a little more cramped than in an e-Niro, and legroom isn't as generous, but the e-Soul's city format delivers on its promise. Its very upright format is also ideal for the headroom, which is not compromised for rear passengers.
Kia e-Soul 64 kWh test drive: Features and price
SAFETY
- Front, side and curtain airbags
- Adaptive cruise control with
Stop & Go function - Active driving assistance in
traffic jams (LFA)
autonomous emergency braking system (FCA) with
pedestrian detection- Lane keeping aid (LKA)
- Full LED" front headlamps
EXTERIOR
- 17" alloy wheels
- Exterior mirrors with LED blinker repeater
- Front daytime running lights and rear
LED daytime running lights
INTERIOR
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Fabric upholstery
- Instrument cluster with
backlit "Supervision" display
7'' TFT LCD
COMFORT
- Front and rear power windows
- Electric parking brake
- Keyless opening and starting
Smart Key - Dual-zone automatic climate control with
"Driver Only" function - 7" touchscreen with
Android Auto™ and Apple Carplay™ compatibility - Camera and reversing radars
Price: €41,300 (excluding €7,000 environmental bonus )
e - ACTIVE finish with additional :
EXTERIOR
- Tinted windows and rear window
- Exterior door handles
chrome finish - Satin-finish aluminum roof rails
- Body-color mirror housings
and base plates in black lacquer - Electrically folding exterior mirrors
INTERIOR
- Fabric / synthetic leather upholstery
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Adjustable LED mood lighting
COMFORT
- Front parking radars
- Rain sensor
- Electrochromic interior mirror
- Induction smartphone charger
- 10.25" HD color touchscreen
- Navigation system with cartography
Europe and TomTom
LIVE connected services free for 7 years - UVO CONNECT system -
telematic services for 7 years - harman/
kardon premium audio system with 10 speakers,
subwoofer and
external amplifier (640 W)
Price: €43,300 (excluding €7,000 environmental bonus )
Finish e - DESIGN with additional :
EXTERIOR
- SUV Pack
INTERIOR
- Head-up display (HUD)
INTERIOR
- Leather upholstery
- Electrically adjustable driver's seat
- Electrically adjustable driver's seat
Price: €45,300 (excluding €7,000 environmental bonus )
Kia e-Soul 64 kWh test drive summary
- Autonomy
- Funky style
- Driving dynamics
- Slightly limited rear seating