Kia Soul (Republic of Korea, 2013-present)

The second generation of the Soul was shown in New York. The new generation is based on the looks of the Track’ster concept. It gets a new, stiffer chassis that is longer and wider than the previous generation. It also gets suspension and engine upgrades for the new generation.

The new design is heavily based on the Track’ster, and the wheelbase is 0.8in longer and 0.6in wider. It gets a wraparound windshield and high-mounted taillights that make the car appear taller, but it is actually the same height as the previous generation. It also gets LED front running lights. The trapezoidal lower air intake is taken directly from the Track’ster.

The new chassis is 29% stiffer than the previous generation, despite having thinner pillars. The car gets a new front sub-frame that is not on the current Soul to reduce interior harshness.

The Soul offers two engine options. The base car gets a 1.6-liter 130hp and 118lb-ft engine. The Plus and Exclaim trims get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 164hp and 151lb-ft of torque. The 1.6-liter comes standard with a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic. The 2.0-liter will only come with a six-speed automatic.

Inside, buyers get more soft-touch materials as standard and leather seating options. It comes standard with piano black trim. The instruments are found in three binnacles that are deeply recessed into the dashboard. Some models will get Kia's UVO infotainment system with an 8in touch screen.

The interior offers 0.8in more front legroom, 0.2in more rear legroom, 0.2in more front headroom and 0.3in more shoulder room.

All cars come standard with features including heated mirrors, a six-speaker stereo and Bluetooth. The Plus trim adds 17in wheels, turn signal indicators in the side mirrors, automatic headlights and rear camera. Finally, the Exclaim trim adds 18in wheels, fog lights, projector headlights with LED running lights, gloss black trim, 10-way power seats, sunroof and leather seats.