Kia Soul Named One Of The "Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" By Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com

The 2012 Kia Soul has "shuffled" its way onto the "Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, a leading provider of new and used car information. Kia's iconic hatchback was honored for its unique combination of style and affordability in a fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient vehicle.

"Our intention with Soul was to design a vehicle that is both fun and economical, and its recognition by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com as a 'cool' vehicle is further indication that we hit the mark," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America (KMA). "Everything about Soul, from the viral sensation 'Share Some Soul' campaign featuring LMFAO's hit single 'Party Rock Anthem,' to performance improvements and a strong list of standard technology and safety features, has contributed to its appeal among young buyers and those who are young at heart."

The annual "Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" list published by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com features vehicles that are fun to drive, fun to own and, most critically, possess the decidedly subjective "cool factor." Editors at Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com compiled the list of qualifying vehicles using Kelley Blue Book's exclusive Fair Purchase Price, which reflects vehicle transaction prices paid by consumers and is updated weekly to reflect changing market conditions.

"A unique blend of funky style and practical packaging, the Kia Soul cranks up its cool quotient for 2012 with even more high-value appeal," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "Nose and tail tweaks add edge to its appearance, while drivetrain enhancements for 2012 bring double-digit horsepower gains plus better mpg figures to both its new 1.6-liter direct-injected base engine and the available 2.0-liter upgrade."

Available in three trims--base, + (Plus), and ! (Exclaim)--Soul turns up the fun-to-drive volume with significant horsepower and fuel economy increases for 2012 with new six-speed transmissions and the ability to deliver 35 mpg on the highway[2]. All Soul models feature electronic power steering (EPS), air conditioning, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power windows, door locks and mirrors, available SiriusXM(TM) Satellite Radio with three months complimentary service[3] and MP3 connectivity. New this year is a 350 watt seven-speaker Infinity[4] sound system that is available on Soul+ models and standard on Soul! models for a more dynamic audio experience. Also new for 2012 is Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft®[5] voice-activated infotainment system with a 4.3-inch color touch screen and rear camera display. The available Premium Package includes heated front seats, leather seat trim, automatic climate control, navigation system (in lieu of UVO system) and push-button start with smart key for added convenience.

Soul's 2012 power increases come from two new four cylinder engines. The 1.6-liter GDI engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission produces 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. A new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine available with either the six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission produces 164 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.

SOURCE: Kia Motors America