The Kia Soul, in its second generation (2014-2018), offered a quirky and practical alternative to the standard hatchback. With its distinctive boxy design and surprisingly spacious interior, it carved a niche for itself in the NZ market. But is it a reliable choice as a used car? Let's delve into the Soul's strengths, weaknesses, and what to watch out for.
Some common issues reported with the 2014-2018 Kia Soul include potential problems with the automatic transmission (hesitation, rough shifting), particularly in earlier models. Engine oil consumption can also be a concern in some cases, so it's crucial to monitor the oil level regularly. Suspension components, especially the rear shocks, may wear prematurely on rough NZ roads. Check for any unusual noises or excessive bouncing during a test drive. Some owners have reported issues with the electric power steering system. Software glitches with the infotainment system also occasionally popup.
WOF tips
When assessing a Kia Soul for a WOF, pay careful attention to the tyres (uneven wear can indicate alignment issues), brakes (check for excessive wear or corrosion), and suspension components. Check all lights are in working order. Windscreen chips and cracks near the drivers line of sight, and wiper blade condition will also be assessed. The condition of the CV boots should also be checked for tears. As the vehicle ages, rust can start to become a factor, particularly around the underbody and suspension mounts. Inspect the condition of seatbelts, and ensure they are fully functioning.
About the Kia Soul CVVT
The 2014-2018 Kia Soul was generally available with petrol engines, offering a balance of economy and performance suitable for urban driving and the occasional road trip. Trim levels varied, but even the base models were reasonably well-equipped. The Soul's appealing price point made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Heritage & Heart: The Soul's appeal in NZ lies in its unique styling – it stands out from the crowd. It's a car that says something about its owner: independent, practical, and perhaps a little bit playful. Kia's growing reputation for reliability also contributes to its desirability, giving buyers a degree of confidence.
Interior: The interior offered decent space. Higher spec levels get a touchscreen infotainment system which were pretty standard for the time, and a few more soft touch plastics.
Questions owners ask
What are the common issues to look out for with a 2014-2018 Kia Soul in New Zealand?
Owners of the 2014-2018 Kia Soul have reported potential issues with the automatic transmission, including hesitation and rough shifting, particularly in earlier models. Some vehicles may also experience engine oil consumption, so regular monitoring of oil levels is important. Suspension components, especially the rear shocks, can wear prematurely on rough New Zealand roads, leading to unusual noises or excessive bouncing. Additionally, some owners have noted problems with the electric power steering system and occasional software glitches with the infotainment system.
What should I pay attention to during a WOF inspection for my 2014-2018 Kia Soul?
For a WOF inspection on your 2014-2018 Kia Soul, pay close attention to tyre condition, checking for uneven wear which could indicate alignment issues. Inspect the brakes for excessive wear or corrosion. Suspension components should be checked for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly, and check the windscreen for chips or cracks within the driver's line of sight, along with the condition of the wiper blades. The CV boots should be inspected for tears. As the vehicle ages, rust can become a factor, particularly on the underbody and suspension mounts. Finally, ensure all seatbelts are in good working order.
Where can I get replacement rear shocks for my 2014-2018 Kia Soul in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 305 SKUs for the 2014-2018 Kia Soul, and you can find replacement rear shocks through our range. Given that rear shocks can wear prematurely on New Zealand roads, it's a common replacement part. You can browse our selection online or visit a CARFIX store to find the right shocks for your vehicle.
Is the 2014-2018 Kia Soul a good car for urban driving in New Zealand?
Yes, the 2014-2018 Kia Soul is well-suited for urban driving in New Zealand. Its petrol engines offer a good balance of economy and performance for city conditions. Its unique styling helps it stand out, and the interior provides decent space, making it practical for daily commutes and errands. Kia's growing reputation for reliability also adds to its appeal as a practical urban vehicle.
How often should I service my 2014-2018 Kia Soul?
The recommended service interval for the 2014-2018 Kia Soul is every 15,000km. Regular servicing is crucial to maintain the vehicle's performance and address potential issues like engine oil consumption or transmission concerns before they become more serious.
What infotainment features were available in the 2014-2018 Kia Soul?
Higher trim levels of the 2014-2018 Kia Soul offered a touchscreen infotainment system, which was a standard feature for vehicles of that era. While base models were reasonably well-equipped, the touchscreen system provided a more modern interface for audio and other functions. Some owners have occasionally reported software glitches with these systems.