Kia Soul History
Catalog record
Photography for this nameplate has not yet cleared the archive’s licensing and identity checks. The researched text below remains available while the page stays out of search and advertising inventory.
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
First generation (AM) · AM
The original boxy crossover-hatchback that established a cult following (US 2010–2013).
2011 Photo: “File:2011 Kia Soul (AM MY11) + hatchback (15716578250).jpg” by Jeremy from Sydney, Australia / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 2.0
Second generation (PS) · PS
Refined and slightly larger; Soul EV battery-electric version added (US 2014–2019).
2014 Photo: “File:2014 Kia Soul Plus US front left.jpg” by Mr.choppers / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
2017 Photo: “File:2017 Kia Soul LX - Front.jpg” by Areaseven / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Third generation (SK3) · SK3
More technology and sharper design in the final generation (US 2020–2025).
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
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
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
Body styles
- 4-door crossover hatchback
Notable special editions & performance variants
Soul EV
Battery-electric version of the Soul — an early mass-market small EV; launched in the US for 2015.
Related models
Collect the nameplate
Find a scale model of the Kia Soul
Search Amazon across available years, colors, and scales. Exact releases vary, so confirm the listing before ordering.