Kia’s hip little crossover, the Soul EV, has been named the MotorWeek Best Eco-Friendly Car, as part of the institutions 34th annual Drivers Choice Awards.
“The Kia Soul EV is the perfect EV. It is totally practical with plenty of room for adults and everyday cargo,” noted John Davis, host and executive producer, MotorWeek. “It has more power and range compared to other affordable all-electric vehicles. Plus, its funky style makes driving the Kia Soul EV really cool.”
The Eco friendliness doesn’t stop at zero emissions either.
“As the centerpiece of Kia’s Clean Mobility program, the Soul EV has the best range in its segment, EPA estimated at 93 miles, and it’s been recognized by Underwriters Laboratories for its use of bio-based materials,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning, Kia Motors America.
The Soul EV has a comfortable interior and a long list of standard amenities including: Navigation with eight-inch touchscreen, a 6.6kW on-board charger, DC fast charge port, Rear Camera Display2, power windows and driver’s seat, cruise control, pedestrian warning system, heated steering wheel and an HVAC system that extends the EV’s range by minimizing energy draw.
The electric motor produces 109 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque which is sent to the front wheels through a 1-speed gear reduction. This arrangement nets you 120 mpge city and 92 mpge highway.
The driving range of 93 miles, puts the Soul in second place, in terms of range, beat only by the Tesla Models S.
Recharging times will range anywhere from 24 hours for a fully depleted battery using a standard 120v outlet and under five hours when plugged into a 240v outlet. Owners can attain an 80-percent charge from empty in 33 minutes with a 50 kW-output DC fast charger.
In the cargo area, if you opt for the cargo tray, the Soul EV offers 18.8 cu.ft. of space with the seats up and 49.5 seats down.
The base Kia Soul EV has an MSRP of $33,700.00 before you subtract the $7,500.00 federal tax credit.