Kia Soul Discontinued After 16-Year Run: Dancing Hamsters Retire

The iconic Kia Soul, famous for its quirky design and dancing hamster ads, ends production following the 2025 model year. After over 1.5 million units sold in the U.S., the beloved boxy crossover has officially reached the end of its run.

Introduced in 2010, the Soul quickly became a trendsetter with its squared-off design and playful personality, competing with vehicles like the Scion xB and Nissan Cube. Its marketing campaigns featuring dancing hamsters dancing to hits like LMFAO’s “Party Rock Anthem” made the Soul a pop culture phenomenon, cementing its status beyond just a vehicle.

Sales Decline and Market Shift

Despite early success, sales had dwindled in recent years, with only 52,397 units sold in 2024 and 40,408 through the first three quarters of 2025. While the Soul still outsold some Kia models, its decline reflected shifting consumer preferences toward larger crossovers and SUVs.

Legacy and Achievements

The first two generations of the Soul were critical in reshaping Kia’s image, showing that the brand could produce stylish, distinctive vehicles. The second-generation Soul even earned multiple spots on the “10Best” list, proving that quirky and practical could coexist. Its departure leaves a notable gap in Kia’s subcompact lineup.

What Comes Next for Entry-Level Kia Buyers

With the Soul gone, the Kia K4 will assume the brand’s entry-level role, starting at $23,185 for 2025 and introducing a hatchback for 2026. Only a few thousand Souls remain at U.S. dealerships, making it one last chance for enthusiasts to own a piece of Kia history.