Road Test: Kia Soul

Anyone who wants to drive something different should take a close look at the 2014 Kia Soul compact SUV just new to the market, writes Trish Whelan.

This second version of the Soul comes with a new fresh, more grown-up look while still keeping its individualistic edge. There's nothing on the road like it so you can show off your individualistic flair.

None of the exterior body panels have been carried over and the interior is a new design. The biggest technical change for the 2014 Soul is the all-new platform, based on that of the latest Kia cee'd. The stronger bodyshell, with improved suspension, allows for improved driving dynamics, ride quality and for greater refinement.

The car is larger than the outgoing one - a bit longer with the wheelbase extended and a tad wider and lower.

Inside, the new cabin is a vast improvement and gets higher quality materials. You sit up high so have good all round visibility especially as the A-pillars are now narrower.

There's more front head, leg and shoulder room. Those in the back also get more leg room. All this makes getting in and out much easier, as does the car's lower step-in height. The cabin is also a lot quieter than before. Buyers can choose between single and two-tone interiors.

The tailgate now opens wider providing easier access to the bigger cargo area - increased to 354 litres with all seats in use. And there's a temporary spare.

Two models are available from launch, the EX at €24,495, and the Platinum at €28,495 (both prices are plus delivery charges), both powered by a 128hp 1.6 diesel engine which on a short launch drive was seemed quite peppy. It's matched to a 6-speed manual transmission. C02 emissions of 132g/km place the Soul in Tax Band B2 of €280 per year in road tax. Kia claim a fuel return of 5.0 L/100km for the combined cycle.

The EX comes generously equipped with comfort, technology and safety features which include 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, Cruise control/Speed limiter, climate control automatic air conditioning, digital radio and a rear view camera. The Platinum adds 18-inch alloys, sat nav, leather upholstery with heated front seats, electrically adjustable driver's seat, panoramic sunroof and an Infinity sounds system.

My car came with around €1,000 worth of exterior features which certainly helped it stand out from its siblings.

Over 700,000 previously generation Souls have been sold worldwide. It surprised me to learn that the Soul is a big seller in the States where it is bought by parents for their children’s first car because they appreciate its funky styling.

With this segment doubled in size here this year, Kia Motors Ireland expect to sell between 300-400 New Souls in 2015. While there are many colours to choose from, the bright red was my absolute favourite, followed by the white.