A detailed look at every Kia Soul model up to this year is included in this guide, along with a rating of the best and worst models from each year.
Throughout this guide, I’ll reveal which Kia Soul generations were the best to buy and which ones were the worst to steer clear of.
Analyzing reliability records, cost data, and safety scores from reliable sources like NHTSA and Consumer Reports, we analyze which Kia Soul year is the best – and which one should be avoided.
The details of the Kia Soul years are highlighted, including what makes them distinctive, the problems they encountered, recalls, and exceptional features.
It’s time to get started.
Kia Soul Generations
Having debuted in 2010, the first generation Kia Soul stood out as a prominent competitor in the compact crossover segment.
First introduced in 2010, the Kia Soul introduced style and practicality with a boxy design, spacious interior space, and customization options.
This is a quick look at the Kia Soul’s generations between 2010 and today.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (AM) | 2010-2013 |
| 2nd generation (PS) | 2014-2019 |
| 3rd generation (SK3) | 2020-Present |
Reliability and owner satisfaction are often influenced by changes in design, technology, and performance over generations.
Kia Soul Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
Based on our comprehensive analysis of factors, we categorize Kia Soul’s best and worst model years. Among them are:
Based on the metrics above, we have classified all Kia Soul model years into best, neutral, and worst.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (AM) | 20102011 | N/A | 20122013 |
| 2nd generation (PS) | 201720182019 | N/A | 201420152016 |
| 3rd generation (SK3) | 202120222024 | N/A | 20202023 |
Typically, a “neutral year” doesn’t have the same high ratings as a “best year,” but does not suffer from the same issues that plague the worst years.
NHTSA recalls are indicative of potential reliability issues, while other factors contribute to our rankings.
Taking a look back at the Kia Soul’s best, neutral, and worst years, let’s see how it performed.
Best & Worst Years for Kia Soul 1st Generation (2010-2013)
Introducing the Kia Soul in 2010, the compact crossover captivated the compact crossover segment with its unique boxy look and youthful appeal.
There is a lot to consider in choosing a Kia Soul model year. The 2012 and 2013 model years are the worst generations of Kia Soul for your money. The 2010 and 2011 model years are the best 1st generation Kia Soul years.
The Best Years: 2010, 2011
As far as reliability and diversity are concerned, the pre-facelift Kia Soul was at its best in 2010 and 2011.
There were two engine options for these models, the Gamma MPi 1.6L with 122 horsepower and the Beta II 2.0L with 142 horsepower. These models delivered a combined fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city/31 highway.
There were several trim levels offered during these years, ranging from the basic Base to the feature-rich Exclaim (!) – to suit the needs of a wide variety of consumers.
The vehicle also featured multiple airbags as well as stability control, in addition to Bluetooth functionality and a high-quality sound system.
These years were largely free of recalls due to non-critical issues, which allowed them to maintain good reliability ratings.
The Worst Years: 2012, 2013
In contrast, the 1.6 Gamma GDi engines introduced in the 2012 and 2013 Kia Soul models caused problems.
As a result of engine problems evident in 2012 and 2013, Kia Souls suffered severe engine failures that often necessitated costly repairs. Steering issues resulted in noise and poor steering performance due to failing steering couplers.
However, reliability suffered as a result of these persistent problems, in addition to fuel economy figures that remained consistent from previous years.
As well, they were subject to numerous critical recalls, including catalytic converters that overheated and short circuits within the hydraulic electronic control unit that posed a fire risk, as well as steering faults that compromised handling.
It is therefore generally recommended to stay away from the 2012 and 2013 Kia Soul model years.
A list of recalls and complaints for the Kia Soul is available from the NHTSA for 2012 and 2013.
Best & Worst Years for Kia Soul 2nd Generation (2014-2019)
After establishing a successful formula with its predecessor, the Kia Soul had matured in its design and offerings with its second generation.
The best Kia Soul years during its second generation were 2017-2019 facelift models, whereas 2014-2016 are the worst Kia Soul years due to lingering issues from the previous generation.
The Best Years: 2017, 2018, 2019
It has been reported that the 2017 to 2019 model years of the Kia Soul are generally considered to be the best years of the second-generation model.
An efficient, fuel-efficient 1.6L Gamma II turbocharged engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 26 city/31 highway mpg, was added to these models to improve the Soul’s drivability.
There has been a significant improvement in materials quality and ride comfort as well as the introduction of advanced driver-assistance features.
In addition to traditional features, these models also included an impressive selection of technology features, including an updated infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
The Worst Years: 2014, 2015, 2016
The 2014, 2015, and 2016 Kia Soul model years continue to have issues from the last years of the previous generation, so it is prudent to avoid them.
It has been reported that the car’s components are prematurely wearing out, there is an odor inside the cabin, the oil consumption is excessive, the headlights malfunction, and the steering is persistently hard to turn.
In 2014, Kia Souls had engine failures and inadequate acceleration. Some units had to have their engines replaced.
As well as manufacturing defects, Kia Soul model years 2014, 2015, and 2016 were recalled for potential fire risks due to faulty catalytic converters and defective steering pinion gears.
The NHTSA has recalled and complained about Kia Souls in 2014, 2015, and 2016.
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Best & Worst Years for Kia Soul 3rd Generation (2020-Present)
Featuring a distinctive boxy silhouette that has been enhanced with modern lines and contemporary details, the Kia Soul 3rd Generation aims to capture the market.
For the third generation Kia Soul, make sure you stay away from 2020 and 2023, with 2021, 2022, and 2024 being the best and most reliable years.
The Best Years: 2021, 2022, 2024
In terms of the Kia Soul third generation, the best years have begun in 2021 and extend into the present.
An available turbocharged engine boosts the fuel economy up to 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway in these Kia Souls.
Specifically, the 2021 Kia Soul introduced enhanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, while the 2022 Soul improved ride quality and cabin noise insulation.
There was a significant upgrade to the connectivity and infotainment systems, with giant touchscreens and intuitive interfaces being implemented.
The vehicle’s improvements in driving dynamics as well as its high reliability and low recall rates have been praised, especially in Consumer Reports.
The Worst Years: 2020, 2023
The NHTSA has received many early complaints from third-generation Kia Soul owners, making 2020 and 2023 the most dangerous years to buy one.
It was common for early CVT adopters to complain of jerky acceleration and, in some cases, complete transmission failures.
It was recalled to fix a potential fire risk associated with improperly heat-treated piston oil rings on the 2020 Kia Soul.
In addition to a recall for a digital instrument cluster that malfunctioned in the 2023 Kia Soul, there was a recall for electric oil pump assemblies that failed, increasing fire hazards.
The second-generation Kia Soul offers better reliability and a more refined driving experience, so those looking to buy a used model should consider the subsequent years.
NHTSA recalls and complaints for Kia Souls from 2020 to 2023 can be found here.
Conclusion
From a historical perspective, the best Kia Soul model years to buy are the 2017 to 2019 models, the 2021 model, the 2022 model, and the most recent 2024 model, while the 2012 to 2016 range is advised to avoid due to their notorious powertrain issues.
When it comes to choosing the best Kia Soul year, what features are most important to you? Safety, reliability, or technological advancements?
Feel free to leave a comment below!