Kia Soul Named Urban Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year!

Kia Soul Named Urban Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year!

The Kia Soul has claimed a top prize at the 2015 Active Lifestyle Vehicle Awards in the United States for the third year running.

The funky Soul has been rated best in the Urban category in the annual awards, which is considered a unique competition because it is judged by outdoor enthusiasts and athletes, as well as independent motoring media.

"The fact that the Kia Soul has won our Urban Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year three consecutive years demonstrates how strong the product is," says Nina Russin, founder of the Phoenix, Arizona based Active Lifestyle Vehicle programme, now in its eleventh year.

“The Soul's cargo area is versatile enough to meet the needs of triathletes, cyclists, skiers and kayakers, yet the car is compact for easy maneuverability and uniquely stylish; something that's especially important to buyers in this segment."

The Kia Soul has become a popular vehicle in the US, where it is among the brand’s top selling models, thanks to its eye-catching design and clever features.

Completely renewed for the 2014 model year, yet still echoing the hallmark styling of the original, the second-generation Soul offers amazing passenger and cargo space within its compact dimensions, due to the tall cabin, providing a more upright and space-saving seating position.

The new Soul has also proved popular in New Zealand, with increasing sales exceeding expectations after being introduced here just over six months ago.

Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand, says the ‘Urban Crossover’ character of the new Soul sets it apart from other vehicles on the road, but that’s only part of its appeal.

“The Soul is a blend of funky personality, fun-to-drive characteristics and immense practicality – it appeals to people who want to drive something different, to be able to express their individuality on the road, yet still transport family or friends and their gear.”

Priced from just $29,990 the new Soul is available with a choice of 1.6-litre or 2-litre engines for the New Zealand market, both mated to a standard six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission.

Two levels of specification are offered. The EX, available only with the 1.6-litre engine, features air-conditioning, cruise control, power windows, remote locking with alarm, premium audio with Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels and a low tyre pressure warning system.

The SX model gets premium upholstery, smart key and push button start, climate air control, power driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, front & rear parking sensors with reversing camera, privacy glass, supervision instrument cluster and 18-inch alloy wheels.

All Soul models are equipped with a suite of safety features including electronic stability control, hill start assist and multiple airbags, along with Kia’s acclaimed 5-year/100,000km Warranty Programme that incorporates 24-hour roadside assistance, plus free servicing for 3 years or 45,000kms.

ENDS

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