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2010 Kia Soul

Date: September 2009

Miles: n/a

It's only been a few weeks since we took delivery of the Kia Soul compact crossover, and already this trendy little box has become a staff favorite. Maybe that popularity is due to its too-cute styling, or maybe it's the cutting edge interior, or perhaps its versatile people and cargo hauling abilities, or that ABS, stability, and traction control are standard, or even our Sport's flexible 2.0-liter 142-horsepower engine. Or maybe it's all of the above. Whatever the reasons, more than ever we think the Soul is a big win for Kia, and will go a long way in improving public perception of this Korean brand. We've no problems or issues to report as of yet. But this test is young. So we'll check back in soon to see if the Soul continues to shine.

Date: October 2009

Miles: 2,800

It's hard to overlook the Kia Soul. From its cute and boxy exterior, to its cool and trendy interior, this compact urban crossover is turning heads and making waves. It has quickly become a weekend favorite at our office. Easy to park, yet capable of carrying up to five or more cargo than you'd think, it still also doesn't have to stop at gas pumps as often as the typical family crossover. Fuel economy from its 142-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 4-speed automatic combo stands at a reasonable 25.0 miles per gallon of regular. The smaller 1.6-liter engine does about 10% better. After only 4 weeks and 2,800 miles we don't expect problems and there aren't any. So, for now, this Soul is bringing us smiles mile after mile.