2012 Kia Soul Photos, engines & full specs

Two years after establishing a new lineup, the Soul got a refresh for the American market, and the new model was unveiled at the 2011 New York Auto Show by KMA (KIA Motors America).

When the Korean automaker introduced the Soul at the Paris Motor Show in 2008 (with sales starting in 2009), times for the automotive industry were harsh due to the world financial crisis. Still, the carmaker didn't back down and supported the sales and its new product, which conquered customers thanks to its versatility and spacious interior combined with the compact exterior sizes.

For the 2012 model-year, the Soul got bigger headlights and the “tiger-nose” styling for the upper grille, placed above the bumper. In addition, a second and broader cooling area was integrated into the apron and was flanked by lower-mounted round fog lamps. To further emphasize the crossover styling, Kia added plastic molding around the wheel arches and on the side sills. Finally, at the back, the vertical tailgate was flanked by better-integrated taillights installed high on the C-pillars.

Inside, the dashboard was redesigned from the ground up and featured new vents on the sides and above the center stack. Drivers were fronting a similar instrument cluster with binocular styling. For the upper trim levels, Kia offered a package that included a sat-nav system with a touchscreen mounted on the center stack and a rear-view camera as well.

Underneath the hood, the most significant upgrade was the replacement of the former four-speed automatic gearbox with a six-speed one. This was offered as an option for the entire range, while a six-speed manual was available on some versions.