2011 Kia Soul: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 Kia Soul is largely a carryover. Its main update is standard illuminated window switches, joined by adjustable rear headrests and revised exterior door handles.
About the 2011 Kia Soul
1st gen (2010-2013), second model year before the 2012 mid-cycle refresh
Kia sold the Soul as an “urban passenger vehicle” for buyers who wanted small-car running costs without giving up personality or usefulness. Its appeal was the mix of standout boxy styling, easy city size, tall seating, a roomy five-door cabin, and a strong value story. Against rivals like the Scion xB and Nissan Cube, Kia leaned on design, everyday convenience features, and a flexible interior more than outright speed or luxury.
The base Soul covers everyday needs with air conditioning, power accessories, USB audio, and a 1.6-liter engine with a manual transmission. The + adds a stronger 2.0-liter engine, Bluetooth, cruise control, and alloy wheels, while the ! emphasizes comfort and audio with a sunroof and upgraded stereo. The Sport pairs the 2.0-liter engine with firmer suspension tuning, unique body trim, a rear spoiler, and a red-and-black interior.
What changed, by category
2011 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 | Automatic, 4-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 | 53.4 cu-ft | 53.4 cu-ft | 53.4 cu-ft | 53.4 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 | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2011 Kia Soul significantly different from the 2010 model?
No. The 2011 Soul carries over its engines, core trim lineup, and overall design, with only small convenience and exterior-detail updates.
What equipment changed on the 2011 Kia Soul?
The 2011 Soul added standard illuminated window switches, height-adjustable rear headrests, and revised grip-style exterior door handles. The + also gained a flip-key remote, while the ! and Sport added heated outside mirrors.
Did the 2011 Kia Soul get new engines or transmissions?
No. The base Soul kept its 1.6-liter engine and manual transmission, while the higher trims continued with the 2.0-liter engine and their existing transmission choices.
Is the 2011 Kia Soul the refreshed version?
No. The 2011 model came before the more substantial 2012 refresh, which brought the bigger mechanical, styling, and technology changes.