The Kia Soul may have polarizing looks, but it’s undeniably one of the most affordable compact cars you can purchase. If you’re shopping for a used Soul, you’ll see that the 2014 version is one of the most modern and cheap versions available. Could the 2014 Kia Soul be right for you?

What is it like to drive the 2014 Kia Soul?

Kia completely redesigned the Soul for 2014. The redesign made the Soul a more cushioned ride and more family-friendly, as U.S. News highlights. For 2014, the Soul was available in two flavors. Reviewers especially appreciated this Soul for its upgraded suspension, which translates to a smoother ride quality. 

The 2014 Soul came with a 130-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder and six-speed manual transmission. Some models will have this same engine but linked to a six-speed automatic. For additional speed, there’s also an optional 164-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder.  

Overall, the 2014 Soul provides adequate power for your everyday drives. Some critics, including U.S. News, wished it offered a bit more oomph. Even so, the Soul’s ability to absorb road imperfections makes it a more compelling option. 

“Our drive route included a grab bag of pavement types and the new Soul dealt with each in dignified fashion, largely unfazed by all but the worstbumps. We also managed to get lost along the way, inadvertently detouring into some tight, twisting mounting roads. Steering feedback aside, the Soul turns predictably and corners with a level of confidence unfamiliar in the old Soul, which tended to skitter when steered over less than pristine roadways.”

Kelley Blue Book 2014

Cabin comforts 

The 2014 Soul also set a new standard for the model’s interior offerings. This Kia can seat up to five, and its seats are accommodating and supportive. Cloth upholstery came standard on this model; upgraded versions will have leather trim. Other amenities available on the Soul include heated front and back seats plus front-seat ventilation. 

“If the new Soul’s exterior doesn’t strike you as a major departure, the interior should – it’s nothing short of a colossal improvement. Materials look and feel better, the recontoured dual-density seat foams are now kinder to your backside, and the cabin now has a much more mature feel.”

Autoblog 2014

There are also a few modern infotainment features available on the 2014 Soul. It came standard with items including a six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth connection, and auxiliary ports. For more tech, look for models with the available navigation app and an Infinity audio system. If you’re looking for more gadgets, you might be interested in the 2017 Soul, which has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Overall reliability 

The 2014 Kia earned solid predicted reliability ratings. Consumer Reports gave it three out of five for predicted reliability, while J.D. Power gave it a four out of five score as U.S. News reports. The good news is that there aren’t many significant complaints regarding this model, and it has affordable ownership costs. Depending on the features and mileage on the model you buy, the average price for a 2014 Kia falls between $8,300 – $11,375.