Kia Soul History
History
The Soul launched in the US for the 2010 model year as a distinctive boxy crossover-hatchback — a deliberate alternative to the sea of rounded crossovers — and quickly built a loyal following for its expressive styling and cargo versatility.
Three generations followed (2010–2013, 2014–2019, 2020–2025), each retaining the squared-off silhouette. Kia also offered a battery-electric Soul EV starting for the 2015 model year. The Soul was discontinued after the 2025 model year.
Generations
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First generation (AM) · AM
The original boxy crossover-hatchback that established a cult following (US 2010–2013).
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2011 Photo: “File:2011 Kia Soul (AM MY11) + hatchback (15716578250).jpg” by Jeremy from Sydney, Australia / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY 2.0
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Second generation (PS) · PS
Refined and slightly larger; Soul EV battery-electric version added (US 2014–2019).
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2014 Photo: “File:2014 Kia Soul Plus US front left.jpg” by Mr.choppers / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
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2017 Photo: “File:2017 Kia Soul LX - Front.jpg” by Areaseven / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
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Third generation (SK3) · SK3
More technology and sharper design in the final generation (US 2020–2025).
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2020 Photo: “File:2020 Kia Soul GT-Line 2.0L front (2) 5.31.19.jpg” by Kevauto / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
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2023 Photo: “File:2023 Kia Soul GT-Line (facelift), front 12.11.22.jpg” by Kevauto / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
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2025 Photo: “File:2025 Kia Soul EX+ in Gravity Grey, front right, 2024-09-29.jpg” by Elise240SX / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
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Body styles
- 4-door crossover hatchback
Notable special editions & performance variants
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Soul EV
Battery-electric version of the Soul — an early mass-market small EV; launched in the US for 2015.
Related models