What to know about the 2025 Kia Soul GT before it's discontinued

The 2025 Kia Soul GT marks the final chapter of a beloved subcompact crossover that has stood out since 2008 with bold styling, practicality, and value. As Kia confirms this is the last model year for the Soul line1, many buyers are asking: what makes the Kia Soul GT different from other trims, is it still reliable, and what should shoppers consider before purchasing the last version of this iconic hatchback SUV? This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from performance specs and trim-level features to common concerns like the Kia Soul engine lawsuit and long-term ownership costs — so you can make an informed decision before the model exits production.

Why Is the 2025 Kia Soul the Last Model Year?

📍End of an era for a unique urban SUV

The 2025 Kia Soul is widely recognized as the final generation of the model, with Kia shifting focus toward electrification and larger crossovers like the EV9 and Sportage. While not officially labeled a 'discontinuation' in all markets, North American production and sales will cease after 20252. This strategic move aligns with industry trends favoring electric vehicles and midsize SUVs over niche subcompacts.

🔧Reasons behind the phaseout:

• Declining demand: Sales have gradually dropped as consumers shift to taller, more powerful SUVs.
• Platform limitations: The current platform doesn’t support full electrification or advanced driver aids efficiently.
• Brand evolution: Kia aims to reposition itself as a premium-tech brand, moving beyond budget-focused models.

Despite its end, the 2025 Soul GT retains strong appeal due to its affordability, cargo space (62 cu ft), and cult-like following — especially among city drivers and first-time car owners.

Understanding the Kia Soul Trim Structure: What Does 'GT' Mean?

⚙️Trim levels matter — GT isn't just a badge

Many users confuse 'Kia Soul GT' as a standalone model, but it’s actually part of a tiered trim system. Over the years, GT has represented higher-performance or better-equipped versions. In recent U.S. models, however, the naming shifted:

Trim Level	Engine	Horsepower	Transmission	Key Features
LX	2.0L I4	147 hp	CVT	Manual AC, cloth seats, 8-inch display
S	2.0L I4	147 hp	CVT	Apple CarPlay, rear camera, alloy wheels
EX	2.0L I4	147 hp	CVT	Heated seats, sunroof, LED lights
GT-Line	2.0L I4	147 hp	CVT	Sport styling, leather, advanced safety suite
GT (prior 2020)	1.6L Turbo I4	201 hp	7DCT	Performance suspension, dual exhaust

📌Important note: After 2019, Kia discontinued the turbocharged GT trim in North America. The 2025 Kia Soul offers only up to the GT-Line trim — which is visually sporty but mechanically identical to lower trims. True GT models with enhanced power are no longer available new in the U.S.

Performance & Driving Experience: How Does the Soul Feel on the Road?

⚡Practical for city use, limited on highways

The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a CVT and front-wheel drive. While adequate for urban commuting, acceleration is modest (0–60 mph in ~9.5 seconds), and passing on highways requires planning.

🔧Driving dynamics summary:

• Ride comfort: Tuned for smoothness over bumps; excellent for daily driving.
• Handling: Responsive steering with minimal body roll thanks to a tall-but-stiff chassis.
• Fuel economy: EPA-rated at 27 mpg city / 32 mpg highway — competitive for its class.
• No AWD option: Unlike rivals like Mazda CX-30, the Soul remains FWD-only.

For enthusiasts who remember the 2015–2019 Kia Soul GT with its 1.6L turbo engine and 7-speed DCT, the current lineup feels underpowered by comparison. However, most buyers prioritize fuel efficiency and ease of parking over sportiness.

Interior Space, Cargo Capacity, and Practicality

📦One of the roomiest subcompact SUVs inside

Despite measuring around 163 inches long, the Soul offers best-in-class passenger and cargo volume. Rear legroom (39.2 in) surpasses Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3. With rear seats up, cargo space is 24.2 cu ft — expandable to 62.2 cu ft when folded flat.

✨Interior highlights:

• Panoramic sunroof available on EX and GT-Line trims.
• Flat load floor enhances usability for bulky items.
• Durable materials resist wear, though hard plastics dominate lower trims.
• Ease of entry/exit due to high seating position and boxy shape.

This practical design makes the Soul ideal for urban dwellers, pet owners, and small families needing maximum utility without a large footprint.

Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance Features

🛡️Solid safety package for the price

The 2025 Kia Soul comes standard with Kia Drive Wise, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Available across all trims (standard on EX and above):

• Forward Collision Avoidance with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Keeping Assist & Lane Following Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Driver Attention Warning
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning (optional)

📊Safety ratings:

• NHTSA: 5-star overall rating (2024 model)
• IIHS: Top Safety Pick (with specific headlights)

These scores reflect strong occupant protection and effective crash avoidance tech, making the Soul a responsible choice for safety-conscious buyers.

Reliability: Is the Kia Soul a Good Long-Term Investment?

✅Mixed history, but generally dependable with caveats

J.D. Power gives the 2025 Soul a predicted reliability score of 4.0/5.0. However, older model years (especially 2011–2013) faced significant issues:

• Transmission problems: Early CVTs experienced shuddering and premature failure.
• Engine defects: Some 2011–2014 models had valve issues linked to oil consumption.
• Electrical glitches: Infotainment resets and sensor malfunctions reported sporadically.

❗The Hyundai-Kia Engine Lawsuit: A major class-action lawsuit settled in 2023 addressed engine failures in certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles due to manufacturing defects. While most affected models were sedans like the Optima, some Soul owners filed claims if their 2011–2014 engines failed prematurely. Kia extended warranties accordingly3.

Modern Souls (2020+) show fewer mechanical issues, benefiting from improved engineering and longer warranty coverage (10-year/100,000-mile powertrain).

Pricing and Value Comparison: Is the 2025 Soul Worth Buying?

🛒Starting under $22,000 — one of the cheapest new SUVs

As of late 2025, the base LX trim starts at $21,990 MSRP, while the top GT-Line Limited reaches $28,500. This positions the Soul as the most affordable new crossover in Kia’s U.S. lineup.

Competitor	Starting Price	HP	Cargo (cu ft)	AWD Option?
2025 Kia Soul	$21,990	147	62.2	No
2025 Mazda CX-30	$25,950	191	41.1	Yes
2025 Honda HR-V	$24,595	138	55.1	Yes
2025 Subaru Crosstrek	$26,495	152	55.2	Yes

📌Value takeaways:

• The Soul wins on interior space and starting price.
• It loses on drivetrain options (no AWD) and engine power.
• Depreciation is moderate — retains about 50% value after 5 years.

Common Misconceptions About the Kia Soul GT

🔍Clarifying popular myths

• Myth: 'GT' means high performance.' Reality: Since 2020, GT-Line is cosmetic-only; no power increase.
• Myth: 'The Soul is being recalled because it’s unsafe.' Reality: No active safety recalls on 2025 models; past issues were isolated.
• Myth: 'All Korean cars are unreliable.' Data shows Kia has improved significantly; 2020+ models rank above average in reliability studies.
• Myth: 'The boxy shape hurts aerodynamics.' While less sleek, the design maximizes interior volume without increasing length.

Alternatives to Consider If You’re Hesitant About the Soul

🔄Top replacements now that the Soul is ending

• Kia Niro: More modern, hybrid/EV options, similar size, slightly higher price.
• Hyundai Kona: Shares platform with newer tech, available AWD and turbo engine.
• Kia EV5: Upcoming electric compact SUV set to replace the Soul in global markets.
• Mazda CX-30: Better driving dynamics and premium cabin, but less rear space.

If you want a vehicle with similar functionality but longer availability, these models offer future-proofing and updated infotainment systems.

How to Decide: Should You Buy the 2025 Kia Soul GT-Line?

📋Who should buy it:

• First-time car buyers seeking low cost and easy maintenance.
• Urban commuters needing tight maneuverability and big cargo space.
• Budget-focused shoppers wanting new-car peace of mind.
• Fans of the Soul’s legacy looking to own the last model year.

🚫Who should avoid it:

• Drivers needing all-wheel drive for snow or off-road conditions.
• Performance seekers missing the old turbocharged GT model.
• Those prioritizing cutting-edge tech or over-the-air updates.
• Buyers concerned about resale value post-discontinuation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to common follow-up questions about the Kia Soul GT and 2025 model:

Is the 2025 Kia Soul the last year?

Yes, Kia has confirmed that 2025 is the final model year for the Soul in North America, marking the end of a 17-year run.

What’s the difference between Kia Soul GT and GT-Line?

The GT trim (discontinued after 2019) had a turbo engine and sport-tuned suspension. The GT-Line is a cosmetic upgrade with no performance gains.

Is the Kia Soul reliable after 100,000 miles?

Most well-maintained 2020+ models remain dependable past 100k miles. Older models may require transmission or engine repairs.

Does the Kia Soul have AWD?

No, the Kia Soul is front-wheel drive only across all model years and trims.

What cars are replacing the Kia Soul?

Kia hasn’t announced a direct successor, but the Niro and upcoming EV5 are expected to fill its role in the lineup.