by Keith Turner
While other automakers are reining in spending and begging for bailout funds, the folks at Kia are taking a different tact to the current economic downturn – by downshifting into third and putting pedal to the metal.
Over the next couple of years, Kia promises to roll out a plethora of new models that are designed, equipped and priced to sell.
Leading this new charge of vehicles is the compact Kia Soul, a five-passenger box that at first glace, closely resembles the original Scion Xb, but with more features at a cut-rate price.
Targeted to the “Y’’ generation (mid to late 20s), the Soul offers many extras that are sure to appeal to the highly mobile and continuously connected crowd. Things like IPod plugs and satellite radio-ready sound systems, USB ports and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity are all standard on the 2010 Kia Soul.
And there’s an impressive Infinity sound system that not only thrills the ears but glows in the dark, with lighted speakers that can be set to hip-hop along with the tunes.
Available in automatic or stick, the Soul comes in four models: Soul, Soul + (Plus), Soul! (Exclaim) and Soul Sport. There are two choices of four-cylinder engines, the 122 horsepower 1.6 liter or the 2.0 liter that pumps out 142 hp.
Mileage is 26/31 for the smaller engine and 24/30 for the larger one.
But the best part is the Soul’s price. Starting at $13,300, the bulk of the Souls will sell at a price of just under $15,000. If you go all out, you’ll still spend les than $20,000 to have your Soul fully loaded.
As Tom Loveless, vice president of sales says, Kia is looking at the current automotive economic crisis as an opportunity.
“While others are digging in, we’re playing offense and leading by our product,” Loveless said. “The Soul says our message loud and clear: It’s cool to own a Kia.”