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Kia Soul'ster Sees Daylight at NAIAS

Kia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster conceptKia Soul'ster concept
Everybody knows that the Detroit Auto Show usually brings an avalanche of new cars and concept models, with automakers aiming to promote their vehicles as much as possible. Kia makes no exception to the rule and has today launched the Soul'ster open-air concept, a model based on the pretty popular Soul. Just like the South Korean automaker said when it officially rolled out the first Soul'ster teaser, the new car is particularly addressed to young buyers.

“Soul’ster delivers something new, intriguing and relevant to today’s buyers – a fun, affordable convertible for active people who like to share good times with friends,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer, KMA. “Defying categorization and providing utility and practicality, the Soul’ster exhibits distinctive design cues and satisfies multiple consumer needs.”

The two door concept “projects a hip industrial look with screw borders, reminiscent of a rivet design found on a fighter jet,” Kia said in a statement for the press. The windshield dimensions are reduced to provide a sportier look while the roll bar has a dual purpose: “it includes a place for the slider tracks while providing protection not found in traditional convertibles.”

Speaking of engines, the Soul'ster is powered by a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder unit that develops as much as 120 horsepower. However, a different unit boasting more power is also available, namely a 2.0-liter version that produces 140 horsepower. There are two transmission types available, namely a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. Fuel economy for each of these two engines is somewhere around 30 mpg.

“With young buyers in mind, Soul’ster offers an agile, smooth and spirited ride. As with its Soul cousin, Soul’ster’s can be made available with a myriad of engine choices depending upon each market’s needs,” Kia explained in the statement.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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