Soul(ful) grunt for Kia MPV
2012-06-27 10:33
South Korean automaker Kia has improved drastically over the past five years with popular products such as the Picanto, Rio, Sportage and Optima enough to give rival automakers pause in South Africa. In June 2012 Kia adds 27kW in grunt and more kit
Kia products have improved hugely over the past five years with its Picanto, Rio, Sportage and Optima now high-end enough to give rival automakers pause in South Africa.
In June 2012 Kia is adding 27kW of power and extra kit to its Soul MPV range in South Africa with the addition of a two-litre petrol model. The new engine is capable of 122kW at 6500rpm and peak torque of 200Nm at 4800rpm and can be hooked to either a six-speed manual or auto gearbox. The new engine has a claimed fuel consumption of seven litres/100km (7.1 for the auto) and has a CO2 emission rating of 165g/km (168g/km auto).
Until now there was only a 1.6 engine.
LEATHER TRIM ADDED
The exterior design has been updated with subtle changes front and rear to project a wider stance. The model sports new LED head and tail lights, power external mirrors and 18" 225/45R18 alloy rims.
Apart from the standard equipment, also available on the two-litre are rear parking radar with a rear-view camera display, a stop/start button with keyless entry, an improved sound system, cruise control (auto only) and a sunroof.
Safety has been improved with the addition of a stablity control system; there's also a nanny for hill-starts.
All Soul models have been given a cabin materials upgrade but the two-litre has leather upholstery and more skin on the steering wheel and gear shifter.
PRICES
Kia Soul 2.0 - R229 995
Kia Soul 2.0 auto - R239 995
...which include a four-year or 90 000km service plan and a five-year or 100 000km warranty.
