2010 Kia Soul: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest news for 2010 is the Soul itself: this is Kia’s all-new first U.S. model year for the boxy five-door hatchback. It launches with four trims, two four-cylinder engines, and a broad set of standard safety features.
About the 2010 Kia Soul
1st generation Soul (AM), first U.S. model year, pre-refresh.
Kia positioned the 2010 Soul as an urban-focused small hatchback with more personality than a typical economy car. Its core appeal was simple: standout styling, a tall and roomy cabin, flexible cargo space, and a strong list of standard safety and convenience features. Against rivals like the Scion xB and Nissan Cube, the Soul’s identity was expressive design without giving up everyday usefulness.
Kia positioned the 2010 Soul as a youthful, roomy hatchback with four distinct trim personalities. The Soul+ brings the stronger 2.0-liter engine and everyday upgrades such as Bluetooth and cruise control, while the Soul! adds a sunroof and upgraded audio. The Soul Sport pairs firmer suspension tuning with unique body trim and a red-and-black interior.
What changed, by category
2010 Kia Soul specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/OD | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 26 mpg | 24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 31 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 142 hp | 142 hp | 122 hp | 142 hp |
| Torque | 137 lb-ft | 137 lb-ft | 115 lb-ft | 137 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 19.3 cu-ft | 19.3 cu-ft | 19.3 cu-ft | 19.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39 in | 39 in | 39 in | 39 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2010 the first U.S. model year for the Kia Soul?
Yes. The 2010 Soul is the model’s first year in the U.S. lineup and the start of its first generation.
What engines does the 2010 Kia Soul have?
The 2010 Soul has two four-cylinder engines. The base trim uses a 1.6-liter engine, while the Soul+, Soul!, and Soul Sport use a 2.0-liter engine.
What safety equipment is standard on the 2010 Kia Soul?
Every 2010 Soul has ABS, stability control, traction control, brake assist, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags as standard equipment.
How do the 2010 Kia Soul trims differ?
The base Soul focuses on essentials and uses the 1.6-liter engine. The Soul+ adds the 2.0-liter engine, Bluetooth, cruise control, keyless entry, and alloy wheels; the Soul! adds a sunroof and upgraded audio; and the Soul Sport adds firmer suspension tuning, unique body trim, and a sport-themed cabin.
Does the 2010 Kia Soul Sport have different suspension tuning?
Yes. The 2010 Soul Sport has firmer springs, retuned shock absorbers, and a larger front stabilizer bar for a livelier feel than the other trims.