Range-topping Kia Soul models go on sale

The two highest specification models of the new Kia Soul are now on sale in the UK. Called the Soul Mixx (pictured above) and Soul Maxx, the cars cost from £18,150 and £19,950 respectively, and feature exterior styling packs and upgraded interiors.

The top-of-the-range cars are set apart from the existing models in the Soul range by their 18-inch alloy wheels, ‘urban’ styling packs and LED daytime running lights. The Mixx comes with contrasting body and roof colours, roof-coloured door mirrors and a reversing camera.

On the inside, both cars get a premium Infinity stereo, an eight-inch touchscreen sat-nav system, leather upholstery, heated front seats and automatic air-conditioning.

The extra money for the Maxx model gets buyers a smart key entry system with a stop/start button, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, front and rear parking sensors and a panoramic sunroof to give the cabin a more airy, spacious feel.

The Soul Mixx model is available with either a 1.6-litre diesel or a 1.6-litre petrol engine and a choice of manual or automatic – Maxx models are available with the same engines but are manual only.

The 126bhp 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine is capable of 56.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 132g/km, meaning the car will cost £130 per year to tax. These figures worsen if you opt for the automatic gearbox; 47.1mpg and 158g/km of CO2 means a £50 increase in tax to £180 annually. The 130bhp 1.6-litre GDI petrol engine can do 38.7mpg and emits 170g/km of CO2 for a yearly tax bill of £205.

For a review of cars in the current Kia range, including the new Soul, head over to Carbuyer’s dedicated Kia reviews page.