Test Drive Kia e-Soul 64 kWh: the long-range SUV

liziscan

June 12, 2023
Electric car tests

Welcome to our Kia e-Soul 64 kWh test drive. The Kia e-Soul 64 kWh is the Korean automaker's second 100% electric iteration. Available in two engine versions, 100 kW and 150 kW, it offers comfortable range and excellent value for money. With a real-world range of 450 km, the new Kia e-Soul 64 kWh is an excellent product for an easy switch to electric cars.

Let's find out in detail what to expect from the 2ᵉ model in the Korean's 100% electric range.

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All about the Kia e-Soul 64 kWh

General information

The refill

Dimensions and weights

General information

The refill

Dimensions and weights

An iconic SUV look
The sporty side of the new Kia e-Soul is integrated into the new SUV design as an option. The addition of wheel and rocker panel mouldings, and an aluminum-finish skid plate at the base of the front bumper and side skirts, give this new urban crossover a unique look.

Kia e-Soul 64 kWh video test drive

Test Drive Kia e-Soul 64 kWh: the long-range SUV

This is the new Kia e-Soul. It replaces its predecessor, the Kia Soul EV produced from 2014 to 2019. Performance has been revised upwards, with range and engine power doubled. The Soul EV's 200 km of range and 110 hp are increased to 452 km of range and 204 hp on the 2020 model of the e-Soul.

Based on the same technical platform as its cousin the Kia Niro EV, the e-Soul has the same 64 kWh battery and 150 kW motor. The Kia e-Soul is also available in a less expensive version with a 39.2 kWh battery and 100 kW motor, giving it a range of 276 km and 136 hp.

Kia has decided to abandon combustion engines for 2020. As a result, the Soul will be available exclusively in electric version. Among the design elements specific to the Kia electric range are the rims and the full grille, behind which is the charging port, and an 'eco-electric' badge, a reminder that this is an electric vehicle.

Taking its cue from the Kia Niro EV's rotary gear selector, the e-Soul nevertheless stands out with a rounded dashboard around a 10-inch touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. The Kia e-Soul continues its tradition of being a "funky" vehicle, with LEDs in the door inserts and speakers lighting up to the beat of the music.

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Kia e-Soul 64 kWh test drive: the benchmark for quality and technology

We particularly appreciate the "Driver only" function.If you're driving alone, you'll save energy by heating or cooling only the driver and not the whole cabin.

The presence of a wireless charging area for the phone is also a nice addition, although you'll need to plug in the cable if you want to take advantage of Android Auto or Apple Carplay functionalities.

A driving experience worthy of the higher classes

On the road, the Kia e-Soul is particularly robust. The suspension is firm and gives an impression of sportiness. The e-Soul's character is very different from that of the e-Niro, which is more comfortable. As a result, the e-Soul rolls less when cornering, encouraging more dynamic driving.

But it's in the city that the e-Soul shines brightest. Its rapid acceleration and compact size are perfect for tackling the urban jungle. The electric motor's instant responsiveness means you can leave everyone else behind at a green light, and its smooth ride makes it a real city pro.

With its 450 km range, the Kia e-Soul is not limited to city driving. It swallows up kilometers like a big one, and acceleration is always excellent, even at highway speeds where its internal combustion counterparts lag a little behind.

Four adults will inevitably be a little more cramped than in an e-Niro, and legroom isn't as generous, but the e-Soul's city format delivers on its promise. Its very upright format is also ideal for the headroom, which is not compromised for rear passengers.