The 2016 Kia Soul is a compact crossover hatchback produced by Kia as part of the second-generation Soul (2014–2019). Known for its distinctive boxy design, spacious interior, practical cargo area, and easy maneuverability, the Soul became a popular choice for commuters, small families, students, and drivers looking for an affordable everyday vehicle.
The 2016 Kia Soul is a compact crossover hatchback produced by Kia as part of the second-generation Soul (2014–2019). Known for its distinctive boxy design, spacious interior, practical cargo area, and easy maneuverability, the Soul became a popular choice for commuters, small families, students, and drivers looking for an affordable everyday vehicle.
The 2016 Kia Soul features a distinctive upright design with a tall roofline, short overall length, wide stance, and large windows that provide good outward visibility. Its box-shaped body helps maximize passenger and cargo space while keeping the vehicle compact and easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking areas.
The 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine produces approximately 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque. GDI, or Gasoline Direct Injection, delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber to help improve efficiency and engine response.
The engine is paired with either a 6-speed automatic transmission or, on certain configurations, a 6-speed manual transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard.
The 1.6-liter engine is designed primarily for efficient everyday transportation, offering adequate performance for city driving, commuting, and normal highway use.
Inside, the 2016 Kia Soul offers seating for up to five passengers. Its tall roofline provides generous headroom, while the upright seating position makes entering and exiting the vehicle easy.
Standard and available features include:
Depending on equipment and option packages, additional features may include a touchscreen infotainment system, upgraded audio system, navigation, automatic climate control, push-button start, and upgraded interior materials.
The rear seats fold down to increase cargo capacity, making the Soul useful for groceries, luggage, tools, sports equipment, and other everyday transportation needs.
The 2016 Kia Soul includes several safety systems designed to improve occupant protection and vehicle stability.
Safety equipment includes front airbags, side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, traction control, tire-pressure monitoring, and hill-start assist.
Fuel economy for the 1.6-liter GDI engine is generally around 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, depending on transmission, driving conditions, vehicle condition, and equipment.
The 2016 Kia Soul 1.6L GDI became popular because it combines the compact dimensions and efficiency of a small car with the seating position, interior space, and versatility of a small crossover.
Its unique styling, practical cabin, affordable operating costs, and flexible cargo space make it suitable for commuting, family transportation, work use, and general daily driving.
As these vehicles age, buyers should pay attention to regular maintenance and potential wear involving suspension components, ignition components, electrical accessories, cooling-system parts, engine oil consumption, and carbon buildup associated with direct-injection engines.
Today, the 2016 Kia Soul 1.6L GDI remains an affordable and practical used vehicle offering good passenger space, respectable fuel economy, easy maneuverability, useful cargo capacity, and comfortable everyday transportation.