The Kia Soul III 2.0 MPI (147 Hp) i-CVT is a front-wheel-drive crossover produced by Kia from 2020 to May 2022. This variant occupied a central position within the third-generation Soul lineup (PS), offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It was positioned above the base 1.6L engine option and below the turbocharged 1.6L variants, targeting buyers seeking a comfortable and economical daily driver. The Soul III represented a significant evolution of the boxy, urban-focused Soul, maintaining its distinctive styling while incorporating updated technology and safety features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Soul |
| Generation | Soul III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 MPI (147 Hp) i-CVT |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1-8.7 l/100 km (29 – 27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7-7.1 l/100 km (35.1 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6-7.8 l/100 km (30.9 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 114 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 179 Nm @ 4500 rpm (132.02 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1999 cm3 (121.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-CVVT |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 529 l (18.68 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1758 l (62.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Length | 4196 mm (165.2 in.) |
| Width | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Height | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2601 mm (102.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Front overhang | 866 mm (34.09 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 729 mm (28.7 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission i-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | independent torsion suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 279 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 262 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Soul III 2.0 MPI i-CVT is the Kia/Hyundai Smartstream G2.0 engine, internally designated as the NU engine family. This 1999cc inline-four cylinder engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a dual continuously variable valve timing (D-CVVT) system. The D-CVVT optimizes valve timing for both intake and exhaust, improving efficiency and responsiveness. The engine produces 147 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The i-CVT (Intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission) is a key component, replacing traditional geared automatics. It utilizes a belt and pulley system to provide a seamless and stepless gear ratio, prioritizing fuel economy and smooth acceleration. Unlike some CVTs, Kia’s i-CVT incorporates simulated gear shifts to provide a more familiar driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0L MPI i-CVT Soul offers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but it’s not particularly sporty. The CVT transmission prioritizes fuel efficiency, resulting in a smooth, linear power delivery. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.0L engine, the i-CVT sacrifices some responsiveness for improved fuel economy. The simulated gear shifts are generally well-executed, but can sometimes feel slightly artificial. The Soul’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. Handling is generally secure, but the Soul is not designed for aggressive cornering. The weight of the vehicle (approximately 2844 lbs) is noticeable under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 MPI i-CVT trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trim levels added features like a larger touchscreen display, premium audio system, heated seats, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available on higher trims. Dashboard configurations were consistent across the 2.0 MPI models, featuring a modern and functional design.
Chassis & Braking
The Soul III utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a coupled torsion beam suspension in the rear. Front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 279mm, while rear brakes are solid discs measuring 262mm. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and ride quality, rather than sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are present on both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Soul III 2.0 MPI i-CVT was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable crossover. Reviewers praised its spacious interior, user-friendly technology, and comfortable ride. However, some criticized its lack of sporty performance and the sometimes-unrefined feel of the CVT transmission. Compared to the turbocharged 1.6L Soul variants, the 2.0L MPI offered lower performance but better fuel economy and a lower price point. Compared to competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR, the Soul offered a more distinctive design and a longer warranty. Fuel economy figures were competitive within its class, averaging around 30 mpg combined.
Legacy
The Kia Soul III 2.0 MPI i-CVT has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The Smartstream G2.0 engine is known for its durability, and the i-CVT transmission, while not without its critics, has generally held up well over time. On the used car market, these Souls represent a good value proposition, offering a lot of features and space for the price. Common maintenance items include routine oil changes, filter replacements, and occasional CVT fluid changes. The Soul’s distinctive styling and practical features continue to make it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers.
