The Kia Soul had already built a reputation by 2017. It was the car you bought because you didn’t want to disappear into traffic. Boxy, upright, and unapologetically different, the Soul had won over urban drivers and small families alike. But there was always one lingering complaint from loyal fans: it needed more punch.
Kia listened—and the 2017 Kia Soul overview answered back with boost.
This model year marked a defining moment in the Soul’s evolution, not because of radical styling changes, but because Kia finally injected real performance into its most expressive vehicle. The addition of a turbocharged engine transformed the Soul from a practical urban runabout into something genuinely fun to drive, without sacrificing efficiency or comfort.
Familiar Shape, Sharper Attitude
Visually, the 2017 Kia Soul overview stayed true to its roots. The tall roofline, wide stance, and squared-off proportions remained instantly recognizable. That consistency mattered; the design was already a strength. However, Kia subtly sharpened the look with redesigned headlights, updated fog lights, and refreshed front and rear fascias that gave the car a slightly more aggressive presence.
Two new exterior colors joined the palette, and the top trim gained exclusive styling touches that hinted at what was happening under the hood. The Soul still looked friendly—but now it looked confident.
Interior: Funky Meets Functional
Inside, the 2017 Kia Soul continued to punch above its weight. The upright driving position delivered excellent visibility, and the tall cabin made the interior feel airy despite the car’s compact footprint. Materials quality was solid across trims, with thoughtful ergonomics that made daily driving easy.
Kia also leaned into practicality. New dual USB charging ports catered to modern device-heavy lifestyles, while available power-adjustable seating improved long-distance comfort. Higher trims added leather accents and sportier touches, including a D-shaped steering wheel that subtly reinforced the Soul’s new performance-oriented identity.
I still remember driving a 2017 Soul on a weekend errand run and realizing how relaxed it felt inside—quiet enough for conversation, yet engaging enough to keep things interesting when traffic opened up.
The Big News: Turbo Power Changes Everything
The headline feature of the 2017 Kia Soul was unquestionably the new turbocharged engine. For the first time, Soul buyers could opt for a 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI engine producing 201 horsepower and a healthy surge of torque that arrived early and stayed strong.
This wasn’t just about numbers on paper. In real-world driving, the turbo Soul felt quick off the line, confident during highway merges, and genuinely responsive when passing slower traffic. It finally delivered the “fun” that fans had been asking for.
What made this upgrade even more impressive was efficiency. Despite the significant power increase, fuel economy remained competitive—actually edging out some less powerful versions in combined driving. It was proof that performance and practicality didn’t have to be mutually exclusive.
A Transmission That Matched the Mood
Complementing the turbo engine was a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. This gearbox delivered quicker, smoother shifts than traditional automatics, contributing to a more engaging driving experience without the harshness often associated with early dual-clutch systems.
In stop-and-go traffic, it behaved predictably. On open roads, it delivered crisp gear changes that made the Soul feel lighter and more responsive than its boxy shape suggested.
For buyers who preferred simplicity, the base and Plus trims retained proven six-speed transmissions, keeping ownership approachable for those uninterested in turbocharged thrills.
Technology Finally Catches Up With Ambition
The 2017 model year also represented a leap forward in technology. Kia upgraded its infotainment system with integrated smartphone compatibility, allowing seamless access to navigation, music, and communication features through familiar interfaces.
Available premium audio, featuring a Harman Kardon system with a subwoofer, transformed the cabin into a surprisingly immersive listening space—especially impressive given the Soul’s size. Larger touchscreen displays and intuitive menus reduced distraction and improved usability.
Safety technology expanded as well. Available blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert addressed real-world driving concerns, particularly in crowded urban environments where visibility challenges are constant.
Everyday Life With a Turbo Soul
Picture a realistic scenario: weekday commuting through congested streets, a quick grocery run, then a spontaneous highway trip on the weekend. This is where the 2017 Soul shines.
The turbo model adds confidence during merges and overtakes, while the standard Soul strengths—easy parking, generous headroom, and flexible cargo space—remain intact. Fold down the rear seats, and the Soul swallows bicycles, luggage, or home improvement supplies without complaint.
It’s the rare car that feels equally comfortable playing commuter, road-trip companion, and personality statement.
How It Compared in Its Segment
By 2017, competition in the compact crossover and hatchback space was intense. Yet the Soul managed to carve out a distinct position.
| Category | 2017 Kia Soul | Mazda CX-3 | Nissan Juke |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbo available | Naturally aspirated | Turbo but dated |
| Interior Space | Excellent headroom | Tight rear | Limited |
| Technology | Strong infotainment | Driver-focused | Aging system |
| Ride Comfort | Balanced & smooth | Firm | Stiff |
| Personality | Bold but usable | Sporty | Polarizing |
While the CX-3 leaned sporty and the Juke leaned eccentric, the Soul offered something broader: character without compromise.
Ownership Perspective: Why It Still Makes Sense
Years later, the 2017 Kia Soul remains attractive in the used market for one simple reason—it delivers more than expected. Reliability has proven solid when properly maintained, parts availability is strong, and ownership costs stay reasonable.
The turbocharged variant, in particular, offers something unique: genuine performance in a segment not known for excitement. It’s a reminder that practical cars don’t have to be dull.
Related: 2016 Kia Soul Overview
Conclusion
The 2017 Kia Soul overview didn’t abandon what made it popular. Instead, it evolved. By adding turbocharged power, modern technology, and subtle design refinements, Kia transformed the Soul into a more complete vehicle—one that appealed equally to the heart and the head.
For buyers seeking a used car that blends individuality, everyday usability, and unexpected performance, the 2017 Soul stands out as one of the most compelling chapters in the model’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 2017 Kia Soul different from earlier models?
The addition of a turbocharged engine and a dual-clutch transmission significantly improved performance and driving enjoyment.
Is the turbo Soul reliable?
With regular maintenance, the turbocharged model has shown solid reliability and remains practical for daily use.
Does the 2017 Soul have modern tech features?
Yes. Smartphone integration, advanced infotainment, and available safety systems bring it closer to modern standards.
Is the 2017 Kia Soul good for highway driving?
Absolutely. The turbo engine makes highway merging and passing far more confident than earlier versions.
Who should buy a 2017 Kia Soul today?
It’s ideal for drivers who want practicality with personality—and a surprising dose of fun—without stepping into a larger or more expensive vehicle.
