The Kia Soul EV is finally coming to Washington state, and it was worth the wait.
We’ll be getting the 2016 version offering three trim levels to choose from instead of two, more standard equipment for less money, and the addition of Shadow Black and Bright Silver to the exterior color palette.
The 2016 Soul EV will also be newly available in Oregon, Georgia, Texas and Hawaii.
This all-electric version of Kia’s popular five-passenger Soul was introduced in 2014 exclusively for the California market because, Kia says, of that state’s electric-vehicle friendliness. California already had a strong infrastructure for EVs and high demand for them.
Soul EV’s electric motor generates 109 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, with a maximum speed of 90 mph and the fuel economy equivalent of 120 mpg city and 92 mpg highway. Its estimated maximum range on a full charge is 93 miles.
The new trim level for 2016 is the Soul EV-e, with a base price of $32,775. Keep in mind as I recite the Soul EV pricing that it includes an $825 destination charge, and that the car qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit.
Standard features on the EV-e model include smart key, push-button start, heated fronts seats and steering wheel, and a driver-only ventilation function that optimizes energy efficiency by shutting off passenger vents when there are no passengers to benefit from them.
Next up is the Soul EV trim at $34,775. It adds an 8-inch navigation touchscreen, rear camera, heat pump climate control system, and Kia’s UVO telematics system that includes remote control of some features using the driver’s smartphone.
Topping the list is the Soul EV Plus (Kia spells it Soul EV+) for $36,775. It adds ventilation to the front seats, leather seat trim, front and rear park assist, and power folding mirrors. The Plus model also offers a new Sun and Fun option package ($1,100) featuring a panoramic sunroof, LED interior lighting and audio system speaker lights.
For those interested in leasing a 2016 Soul EV, the rate is $279 a month.
Soul EV is the recipient of industry-first automotive environmental validation by Underwriters Laboratory for its use of 52.7 pounds of bio-based organic interior content. Bio-based plastics derived from cellulose and sugar cane are used in various places throughout the cabin, including the door panels, headliner, seat trim, roof pillars and carpeting. All told, organic bio-based materials are used in 19 different interior parts.
Kia representatives say the new Soul EV will be available at dealerships soon, but an exact date has not yet been announced. Performance Kia in Everett is one of the retailers who will be qualified to carry it.
Mary Lowry is an independent automotive writer who lives in Snohomish County. She is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a board member of the Northwest Automotive Press Association.
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