2008 SEMA – Kia Soul primed for customizing
How important is the dealer accessory market to a manufacturer trying to recast itself as a youth brand? It’s so important that even before Kia rolls out the production Soul at the LA Auto Show later this month, it’s disclosed that the car will have the most extensive set of dealer-sold accessories of any of their models.
More informative, even more so than the Borrego concept with fender vents swiped from an Escalade, the Soul Burner concept car parked on the SEMA floor is very close to the production Soul. It looks like a very clever package, combining generous interior volume with a short length. Unlike its most obvious competition, the Scion xB, the Soul has big high windows – all the better for you to see out with.
Sure, hatchbacks as a whole haven’t been too successful in the States. But compelling hatchbacks like the xB, Honda Fit, and Toyota Prius have sold well. And with Kia’s most distinctive styling to date, and the possible combination of lots of content at the right price, the Soul may just join these ranks.
What do you think?
Read about more cars, gear, news, and views from SEMA.
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Posted by: melville248 | Nov 5, 2008 8:27:20 PM
I think the Kia Soul is going to be a winner. The styling is a bit fresher and maybe funkier (appealing to young for sure) than the Fit and Prius.
Posted by: conversion to electric car | Nov 6, 2008 7:53:02 AM
Kia soul surely represents youthfulness. Kia soul will rock with the youths and the desing is very trendy. Just awaiting for the LA auto show where in soul would be displayed.
Posted by: Mike Belknap | Nov 11, 2008 11:36:34 PM
I'm 26, and while I think it looks cool and is a great concept overall, what's with the 4-speed and gazillion-foot-wide D-pillar?! As with its Scion competitor, these are my only major beefs. Then again, I have heard that the ride's rough.... I guess we'll have to wait and see.
Posted by: choqokat | Nov 13, 2008 10:30:16 PM
"designed for the young" <- this is how you kill a car. the design is perfect for me: 48 f, no crotch goblins or crib midgets, just a q-tip that needs toting around for the fun of it. i want: diesel, stick, pretty. thank you!
Posted by: Peggy | Apr 19, 2009 12:14:56 PM
Hey, I'm 67 and the minute I saw the Soul, it blew my mind and I have to have it in red!