2020 KIA Soul X-Line Off Beat and Out of the Box

Funky, offbeat, and still classy, the 2020 Kia Soul X-Line continues to hold its own against the competition. Even though we’ve lost the Scion xB and Nissan Cube, we are glad to see the Soul reinvent itself, with the third generation retaining that boxy aesthetic but with more value and practicality than ever before. 

Exterior Styling 

The 2020 KIA Soul looks better than it ever did with all the regular Soul styling elements we’ve come to love. This time around, the company has tilted the front fascia ever so lightly giving the headlights a bit of a squint, sure it is still quirky but arguably not as cute as it was. The X-Line comes with 18-inch wheels, silver mirror caps, body cladding and roof rails. It is a great look, and hard to beat even for the GT-Line. 

While some people may not dig the boxy design, the fact is that it is because of the boxy design that the Soul offers more cargo space than the competition. 23.4 cubic feet of space is impressive. But things get even more impressive when the back seats are flattened, and that space is expanded to 62.1 cubic feet. That’s more space than the Mini Countryman and Nissan Kicks. It is even more cargo room than larger vehicles like the Mazda CX-5, and the Jeep Compass. 

Performance on the Road 

The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated with a CVT transmission using what’s called Intelligent Variable Transmission produces an impressive 147 HP and sizable 132 lb-ft of torque. 

On the road, we were impressed with just how well the CVT was able to mimic a regular six-speed automatic transmission complete with faux shift points. The vehicle is fun to drive similar to its predecessor. The drive is so good that for many, it may feel boring. However, the ability to take the Soul across tight curves, and accelerate at the drop of a hat are all attributes that every owner will find more than adequate in their daily driver.

The handling is second to none, and while competing vehicles like the HR-V and Kicks feel subpar in this depart, the Soul is a beast. The direct steering input, quick throttle response, and a highly responsive chassis mean that the Soul can dart around town faster than most vehicles. Despite being a front-wheel-drive only, it does not slip, and there is minimal body roll. The grip is perfect, something we can’t say for the competition. 

Comfort in a Box 

Stepping inside, it isn’t hard not to notice just how roomy this subcompact crossover is compared to all the others. The high-rising roof gives it a more airy feel, excellent visibility and more than enough headroom for most people. 

The seats feel soft, and though the engine does have a bit of a buzz to it at high speeds, it isn’t irritating. With 39.1 inches of leg-room, it is comfortable for both people in the back as it is in the front. 

Final Verdict 

The 2020 Kia Soul X-Line has taken the subcompact crossover segment by storm and for good reason too. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a well-styled, comfortable, roomy and powerful crossover to be used as a daily driver.