2012 Kia Soul
Should You Buy a 2012 Kia Soul?
The 2012 Kia Soul is a compact wagon that combines a unique design with practicality, making it a popular choice for urban dwellers and young families. With a 2.0L I4 engine producing 164 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, it offers a balanced performance while achieving a respectable 26 MPG combined. Priced at an MSRP of $16,300, the Soul is an affordable option in the compact segment, providing ample seating for five and a spacious interior for passengers and cargo alike. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle's mixed reliability ratings, as evidenced by the 662 total complaints filed with the NHTSA, including notable issues with the engine and steering components.
While the Soul is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle with a reliability score of 84.8/100, there are significant concerns regarding engine and steering problems, particularly at higher mileage intervals. The vehicle has reported 41 crash incidents and 31 fire incidents, leading to 40 injuries and 2 fatalities, which are critical factors to consider when evaluating safety. Overall, the 2012 Kia Soul is a versatile choice for those seeking a budget-friendly, stylish vehicle, but prospective buyers should conduct thorough inspections and consider the reported issues before making a purchase.
The 2012 Kia Soul is best suited for young professionals or small families seeking an affordable, stylish vehicle for daily commuting and urban living.
Strengths
- +Unique and stylish design that stands out in the compact segment
- +Spacious interior with ample cargo space for a compact vehicle
- +Affordable price point, making it accessible for budget-conscious buyers
- +Good fuel economy at 26 MPG combined, suitable for daily commuting
- +User-friendly technology features and comfortable seating for five
Weaknesses
- -Reported engine and steering issues that may affect long-term reliability
- -Higher incidence of crash and fire complaints compared to competitors
- -Limited performance capabilities compared to sportier alternatives
- -Interior materials may feel less premium than those in rival models
- -Resale value may be impacted by reliability concerns
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2012 Kia Soul has a notable number of complaints, particularly concerning the engine and steering systems. Issues with the engine tend to arise between 100,000 to 140,000 miles, while steering problems are commonly reported between 60,000 to 80,000 miles. These concerns warrant careful consideration for potential buyers, especially regarding long-term reliability.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 1.6 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 27
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 161.8 in
- Width
- 70.5 in
- Height
- 63.4 in
- Wheelbase
- 100.4 in
- Curb Weight
- 2,623 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- –
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –