• 11-APR-2014

WardsAuto Names 2014 Kia Soul to List of "10 Best Interiors"

The 2014 Soul, Kia Motors America's (KMA) compact car sales leader, has gained further recognition for its iconic design by being named to WardsAuto's list of "10 Best Interiors of 2014." Kia's fun-to-drive urban utility vehicle impressed WardsAuto editors by combining a refined interior design, high-quality materials, premium features, cutting-edge technology and value in the compact-car segment.

"The totally transformed Soul is designed to retain all of the fun-loving appeal of the original Soul while incorporating more desirable premium amenities," said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, KMA. "WardsAuto's high praise and recognition for the 2014 Soul's interior is evidence that our design team delivered on the promise to remain true to the Soul's iconic personality while elevating this incredibly popular value leader to new levels of sophistication."

WardsAuto named the 2014 Soul to their list of "10 Best Interiors" based on a combination of fit-and-finish quality, safety, technology, design aesthetics and comfort. The 2014 Soul is offered in three trims and comes standard with steering wheel-mounted audio controls and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio and Bluetooth® wireless technology . Conceived at Kia's U.S. design studio in Irvine, Calif., the all-new Soul's design was inspired by the wildly popular Track'ster concept, which was unveiled during the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Interior highlights include the use of soft-touch materials around the instrument panel, center console and door panels, and details such as available leather-trimmed seating and high-gloss piano-black trim pieces on the center console and instrument panel add a premium feel without compromising the Soul's fun-and-funky style.

"Five years ago, we honored the Kia Soul as the industry's 'grooviest interior.' This redesigned cabin is even more functional, better equipped and, yes, still groovy," says Tom Murphy, WardsAuto World executive editor. "The Soul proves once again that an entry-level interior doesn't have to compromise anything. The funky sense of style appeals to people – and hamsters – of all ages."