2016 Kia Soul Interior - Whatsinterior

2016 Kia Soul Interior: A Detailed Examination

The 2016 Kia Soul's interior continues the model's trend of offering a surprisingly spacious and well-equipped cabin for its compact size and price point. The design prioritizes functionality and user-friendliness, incorporating durable materials and a distinctive aesthetic that has resonated with a wide audience. While not luxurious, the interior successfully balances practicality with a touch of personality, making it a competitive offering in the subcompact crossover segment.

Space and Comfort

One of the defining characteristics of the 2016 Kia Soul's interior is its generous interior space. Thanks to its boxy shape, both front and rear passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom, making it comfortable for longer journeys. The upright seating position provides excellent visibility, contributing to a confident driving experience. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate two adults, and even three for shorter trips. The cargo area, while not the largest in its class, is still adequate for everyday needs and can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. The high roofline also allows for taller items to be easily accommodated.

The seats themselves are generally comfortable, though some may find the base seats somewhat lacking in lumbar support on longer drives. Higher trim levels offer upgraded seats with more bolstering and premium materials, which significantly improve comfort. The driver's seat is height-adjustable, allowing drivers of varying sizes to find a comfortable driving position. The steering wheel also offers tilt and telescopic adjustment, further contributing to personalized comfort. The overall interior dimensions and thoughtful design contribute to a sense of spaciousness that is uncommon in vehicles of this size bracket.

Noise levels within the cabin are generally well-controlled for a vehicle in this class. While some road and wind noise is noticeable at higher speeds, it is not overly intrusive. The engine noise is also reasonably muted during normal driving conditions. Kia has implemented sound-deadening materials in key areas to minimize noise intrusion, resulting in a more pleasant and relaxed driving experience.

Design and Materials

The interior design of the 2016 Kia Soul is characterized by its modern and somewhat quirky aesthetic. The dashboard layout is clean and straightforward, with logically arranged controls that are easy to reach and operate. The center stack houses the infotainment system and climate controls, which are intuitively designed and simple to use. Circular design elements are prevalent throughout the cabin, adding a touch of personality and visual interest.

The quality of materials used in the interior is generally commensurate with the vehicle's price point. While hard plastics are present in some areas, they are textured and visually appealing. Higher trim levels feature soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels, which elevate the overall feeling of quality. The seats are typically upholstered in cloth, but leather upholstery is available on upper trims. The stitching and trim accents add a touch of sophistication to the interior.

The overall design is functional and user-friendly, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The placement of storage compartments is well-considered, providing ample space for personal items. The interior is also available in a variety of color schemes, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to their individual tastes. The attention to detail in the design and the clever use of materials contribute to an interior that feels more premium than its price tag might suggest.

Technology and Features

The 2016 Kia Soul offers a range of technology and features that enhance the driving experience and provide connectivity. The base model comes standard with features such as air conditioning, a four-speaker audio system with USB and auxiliary inputs, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trim levels add features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, a rearview camera, and a premium audio system.

The touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, featuring a clear display and intuitive menus. It integrates seamlessly with smartphones, allowing drivers to access their music, contacts, and other apps. The navigation system provides accurate and reliable directions, helping drivers to reach their destinations with ease. The rearview camera enhances safety and convenience, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier.

Other available technology features include keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, and heated seats. These features add to the overall comfort and convenience of the vehicle, making it a more enjoyable and practical choice for everyday driving. The availability of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning, further enhances the appeal of the 2016 Kia Soul.

Practicality and Versatility

Beyond its spacious interior, the 2016 Kia Soul excels in practicality and versatility. The rear liftgate provides easy access to the cargo area, making loading and unloading items a breeze. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split, allowing for flexible cargo configurations. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo area expands significantly, providing ample space for larger items.

The interior is also designed with practicality in mind. There are numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin, including door pockets, a glove compartment, and a center console storage bin. These compartments provide ample space for storing personal items, keeping the cabin clutter-free. The cupholders are also conveniently located and can accommodate a variety of drink sizes.

The high roofline of the Kia Soul also contributes to its practicality, allowing for taller items to be easily transported. The vehicle is also relatively easy to maneuver in urban environments, thanks to its compact size and good visibility. These factors combine to make the 2016 Kia Soul a highly practical and versatile vehicle that is well-suited for a variety of lifestyles.