It’s only a matter of weeks now before the all-new 2014 Kia Soul starts arriving in showrooms.
One of the biggest questions consumers are now asking is whether to wait for the new model or try to find a deal on a 2013 Soul model.
Let’s take a look at how the two compare to one another.
For the purposes of this piece, we will be comparing the top-of-the-range Soul models to see where the biggest differences lie.
Update: 2020 Kia Soul launched:
2014 Versus 2013 – Dimensions
At first glance, you could be excused for believing that the two Soul models are in fact the same car.
There are a few differences in the dimensions, but they are so small as to be almost imperceptible.
The one measurement difference that is big, though, is in the wheelbase, with nearly a full inch added to the 2014 Soul model.
It may not seem like much, but when you are talking about small cars, that extra length is huge in delivering a more settled ride.
Another big difference can be found in the amount of cargo space, with the 2014 Kia Soul delivering 24.2 cubic feet as compared to the 19.3 found in the 2013 Kia Soul.
Pictures Of The All-New and Old Soul Crossover
Styling Differences Between New Kia Soul And Outgoing Model
There is also a difference in the styling, which is best seen by taking a look at the profile of the all-new model.
It gets a lift at the leading edge of the hood, as well as in the rear edge of the roof.
There are bigger lights found in the front and rear, with a larger hatch area showcased by blackout areas.
The overall sculpture of the 2014 Soul body has been softened somewhat, with the aggressive side crease found in the 2013 model as good as gone.
Interior Comparison
It was the inside that was the biggest bone of contention for most first-generation Soul drivers.
The feeling was that the plastic used on the 2013 Soul dashboard and door panels looked a little cheap and that is something that Kia definitely heard.
The 2014 Soul now uses higher grade materials inside, but that is not the only change to the interior.
The seats in the 2014 Soul are a definite improvement too, giving you an improved lateral and thigh support.
The dashboard has been completely redesigned so that it can incorporate the new UVO system and navigation.
Other major improvement is a decrease in road noise.
There are also a few cool features that will only be found in the 2014, such as ventilated/cooled front seats and heated steering wheel.
Ride And Handling
If you were to test drive both model years, you would find that the 2014 has made definite improvements in both ride and handling.
Which One To Choose?
We know which direction we would go when choosing between the 2013 and 2014 Kia Soul, but as always, it all comes down to personal preference.
Take a look at both Kia cars and decide which one will suite your unique needs the best.
the wheelbase is not 1″ longer but .8″ (100.4″ vs 101.2″)
“The one measurement difference that is big, though, is in the wheelbase, with nearly a full inch added to the 2014 Soul model”
I’m guessing that’s why they said nearly a full inch
it didn’t say that originally.
An improvement in road noise is most welcome as that is one thing I have definitely noticed was an issue in the previous Souls. Overall the improvements seem great! Thanks for posting!