The 2020 Kia Soul 2.0L gets 30 MPG combined, making it a surprisingly efficient car for city driving, especially when you consider that style and value are more important than ultimate fuel savings. The Soul isn’t trying to be a Prius, and its boxy shape certainly doesn’t help its aerodynamics. Yet, this figure is a good option for buyers who want more personality than a typical economy car offers, while still keeping running costs manageable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Soul’s fuel economy at 27 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. That city figure is particularly relevant, as the Soul’s natural habitat is stop-and-go traffic. Drivers appreciate its maneuverability and visibility in dense urban environments, often prioritizing these attributes over fuel efficiency. The highway number, while respectable, shouldn’t be seen as a benchmark for long-distance cruisers. The Soul is perfectly capable on road trips, but its boxy design introduces wind resistance that becomes noticeable at higher speeds. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) also plays a role, optimizing engine speed for efficiency but sometimes feeling less responsive than a traditional automatic when quick acceleration is needed for passing or merging. You can review SOUL MPG across all years to see how this compares to other models.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Kia Soul 2.0L at $1,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. If you primarily drive in the city, expect to spend closer to the higher end of that range. If you do a lot of highway driving, you could potentially save a bit of money on fuel.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing methodology, real-world fuel economy often differs. Soul owners report figures hovering around the EPA estimates, demonstrating the official numbers are relatively accurate. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and neglecting maintenance can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Tire pressure is also an important factor, so ensure your tires are properly inflated. Weather conditions can also play a role, with colder temperatures frequently contributing to a slight decrease in fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2020 Kia Soul 2.0L’s fuel economy stacks up reasonably well against its competitors. The Nissan Kicks, with its smaller engine and focus on efficiency, achieves around 31 MPG combined. However, some find its driving experience less engaging than the Soul’s. Subcompact SUVs like the Hyundai Kona with the base engine match the Soul’s MPG, offering similar practicality in a slightly different package. A larger, more powerful vehicle like a Honda HR-V gets a combined MPG closer to 28. The Soul offers comparable fuel economy to genuine subcompacts, while providing significantly more cargo space and a dose of quirky style. For those considering other options, feel free to check all Kia fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 2020 Kia Soul 2.0L is already reasonably efficient, there are several ways to improve its fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as the CVT is designed to operate most efficiently with smooth, consistent inputs. Anticipate traffic conditions and coast whenever possible, which reduces the need for hard braking and unnecessary acceleration.

Regular maintenance is also key to optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure your engine is properly tuned, and replace air filters and spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Dirty air filters and worn spark plugs can significantly reduce engine performance and fuel economy.

Think about your cargo. Extra weight in the vehicle requires the engine to work harder, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area. Even a few extra pounds can add up over time.

Tire pressure plays a role. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during changes in temperature.