Kia Soul EV

Produced from 2015 through 2019, the Soul EV is an all-electric version of Kia’s popular subcompact crossover SUV, the Soul. It’s the smallest electric vehicle in Kia’s lineup, measuring about nine inches shorter than the next larger model, the Niro EV.

Kia built the Soul EV in three trims: the entry-level EV-e (which first appeared in 2016), the well-equipped EV (also known as the base), and the top-of-the-line EV+ (also known as the Plus). Standard equipment includes keyless entry and ignition, cloth upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth smartphone connectivity. While the EV-e makes do with a 5.0-inch infotainment display, the base EV and EV+ trims both get an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation. The EV+ also includes parking sensors, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. A panoramic sunroof is optional. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not originally offered on the Soul EV, are now both available via a dealer-installed software update.

The Soul EV launched with a 27-kilowatt-hour battery pack paired with a 109-horsepower electric motor powering the front wheels (only). Kia upgraded the battery pack to 30 kWh in 2018, increasing its range from 93 to 111 miles, according to EPA estimates. Once depleted, the battery pack takes about 5 hours to recharge via a 240-volt household outlet. Using a DC fast charger, it can be refilled to an 80% charge in about 35 minutes.