New vs Used KIA Soul: What are the top 3 differences?

By Farzana Chaumoo

While there are several differences between a used and new car, here are our top 3 differences between a used and new KIA Soul.

 

Since KIA is no longer selling the Soul new, models for the comparison below are made between the last updated 2017 model (warranties would still be intact) and the 2010 model. 

 

1. Infotainment

The older KIA Soul models were equipped with a factory-fit RDS Radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility, as well as USB, AUX and iPod connections in the centre console, speed rated volume control, six audio speakers – one in each door and two tweeters – a 112 watts output, innovative PowerBass technology and a roof-top antenna. Steering wheel mounted audio controls also made accessibility to the radio convenient.

The PowerBass system employed psychoacoustic audio technology to overcome the inherent challenges of an in-car sound system – small speakers, harsh environment and obstacles within the interior – and deliver concert hall quality sound with lively reproduction of bass tones.

Later models of the Soul (2017) got the addition of the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which could very well be the best thing invented for cars since the sound system. With Apple’s CarPlay, you can access Apple Music and other Apple apps, while with Android Auto, you can access apps like Google Maps. However, on the down side, its availability was limited to certain markets only. Also, KIA Motors in South Africa is no longer selling the Soul. 2017 models can be found with a radio with RDS, MP3/Aux/USB jacks, Bluetooth connectivity and six speakers, a rear-view camera, electrochromatic rearview mirror, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. 

 

2. Price and Warranty

Back in 2009, the KIA Soul was retailing from R189,995 and included a 4 year/90,000 km Service plan and a 5 year/100,000 km Warranty. An older Soul will be well out of warranty now and all servicing and maintenance costs will be due to you.

Whereas a 2017 Soul was sold with a starting price of  R309,995 and an industry-leading 5 year/Unlimited kilometre Warranty, 5 year/Unlimited kilometre Roadside Assistance, as well as a 4 year /90,000km Service Plan. As previously mentioned that the Soul is no longer being sold new, a 2017 model will still be having its warranty in place and servicing costs are covered by KIA.

 

3. Design

It's clear as day, the design differences don't even need elaboration. But for the sake of breaking it down, later year models have remodelled front bumpers, while models updated in 2017 feature a metallic skid plate to give the Soul a sportier appearance. KIA has also given the Soul’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille a minor revision, while its headlights also see a revision to its composition and layout. On the updated high-specification SMART models, the Soul’s LED daytime running lights have been moved to the bottom of the light.

On the rear of updated models, the rear bumper has been remodelled and also features a metallic skid plate and newly-designed fog lamps and reflectors for greater illumination for following road users. Entry-level START models feature a designed, sportier alloy wheel design, while the alloy wheel design on the STREET and SMART models remain unchanged.

 

Find more KIA Soul News and Reviews here.