Korea always gets slightly better Hyundai and Kia models than everybody else. This is especially true for the quirkier models, like the Soul crossover.
We've just discovered a model called Soul Monster Diesel has been revealed in the country, and it's got a new engine. In place of the old 1.6-liter diesel with 128 horsepower, Kia has installed the U2 1.6 VGT with 136 PS and 30.6 kg-m (300 Nm) of torque.
That's hardly the stuff of dreams, but the latest DCT twin-clutch gearbox is also part of the package.
The engine has been designed to meet the latest Euro 6 regulations and having already been installed on the Cee'd hatchback, we expect this Soul Monster Diesel to be offered in Europe too. In Korea, customers are told to expect 15.8 kilometers per liter (6.3 l/100km), which is an upside down way of saying.
Cosmetic changes are subtle, but they do include a chin spoiler, rear diffuser and wheel arch trim in gloss black. With only 136 PS and minor cosmetic tweaks, the Soul is not the monster it claims to be, but we think a lot of customers might appreciate the twin-clutch gearbox and slightly more power.
The current generation of Kia Soul entered production in 2013 and is based on the same platform as the Cee'd hatch. It's much longer than before and features bold styling. However, the model also serves as Kia's only mass-market electric vehicle. To find out more, check out our Soul EV review.
The 2015 Kia Soul 1.6-liter diesel models cost between 20.75 million won ($18,450) and 22.75 million won ($20,250).
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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