Updated 2022 Kia Soul EV gets new powertrain and design

• New trim level
• Choice of battery sizes
• Order books open for deliveries by end of the year

The Kia Soul EV has been refreshed with updated styling, new trim levels, optional battery packs, and a starting price of £32,795. 

Previously, only a single Maxx version of the Soul EV was available, but the refresh brings in an Urban trim with an Explore version replacing the Maxx variant at the top of the range. The expanded range means the Soul will compete with the Hyundai Kona Electric as before, but will now be a closer rival to more affordable versions of the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense.

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Many of the styling changes on the new Soul EV are tweaks to the existing design rather than a comprehensive restyle, including the new Kia badge that is now integrated into the area that connects the headlights. Kia’s ‘Tiger Nose’ family design is retained on the lower part of the front bumper and the charging flap remains the same as before. Soul branding has been removed from the rear pillar and the rear lights now have a darkened tint to them. 

For the first time Kia Soul EV buyers can choose a smaller 39.2kWh battery fitted to the entry-level Urban model. Kia claims a range of 171 miles for the smaller battery, and charge times of 0-80% in 54 minutes. It will be capable of 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds and produces 134bhp.

Kia expects the higher specification ‘Explore’ trim to be the main seller in the UK, with prices starting at £38,995. It comes equipped with the larger 64kWh battery capable of 280 miles range. Compared to the smaller battery models, power  increases to 201bhp and the 0-62mph time drops to 7.9 seconds but, crucially for many car buyers, the charge time will remain the same.

Urban models will get LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, safety kit including forward collision assist and lane keep assist, plus an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Explore trim gets the same but upgrades the screen size to 10.25-inches and adds heated leather front seats, rear parking sensors, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

Buyers can order the refreshed Kia Soul EV today for delivery before the end of the year.

Looking for an electric car but not sure which one to choose, check out our 10 best electric cars, or if you’re on a tight budget, see our top 10 cheapest electric cars.