Kia Soul EV (2014-2018) interior & comfort

Although it’s comprehensively equipped, the Soul EV’s interior design feels a bit ‘plain Jane’ compared with its funky exterior. But the standard of fit and quality of materials are adequate if a bit cheap-feeling, and there are eco-design cues that set the EV apart from its stablemates.

Kia Soul EV dashboard

Unlike some electric cars that make more of an effort to play up to their futuristic tech, the Soul EV is surprisingly restrained inside. There’s a two-tone dash, which is otherwise identical to other Soul models. It features a twin-dial instrument pack and a central pod housing the eight-inch touchscreen; there’s no trendy, ‘tablet-style’ screen here.

Equipment, options and accessories

As mentioned before, there’s only one standard trim level for the Soul EV, but it’s packed out with features that go a long way to help justify the car’s high price. The first thing you’ll notice on entering the cabin is the grey two-tone ‘Eco’ upholstery with electric-blue stitching. The same blue stitching is repeated on the leather steering wheel and shifter.

Comfort features include a tilting and telescoping steering wheel column, with heated wheel and seats, an electronic parking brake, electric windows and mirrors, plus cruise control, smart entry and dual-zone climate control.

Infotainment, apps & sat nav

The infotainment system in the Soul EV is includes a six-speaker audio set-up with DAB radio, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition and music streaming. It’s all managed from the clear, eight-inch touchscreen that offers easy-to-use menus as well as sat-nav and reversing camera.

You can also operate key functions using voice commands or steering-wheel controls. Important vehicle info is presented on an OLED screen in the instrument binnacle ahead of the driver. Again, it’s very clear and easy to use.