While 29 MPG combined won’t make the 2021 Kia Soul 1.6L a champion of fuel efficiency, it’s perfectly acceptable considering what this boxy hatchback offers: maximum interior space within a subcompact size. Kia isn’t trying to win over Prius buyers with this engine; they’re aiming for urban residents, young professionals, and anyone who values cargo capacity and unique styling more than ultimate fuel savings. This base-engine Soul balances decent mileage and affordability, a combination that appeals to its main customer base.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 27 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway reflect the Soul’s typical driving experience. The 1.6L engine, along with its automatic transmission, is geared for quick trips around town, where relatively short gearing helps compensate for its moderate power. Highway performance is adequate, especially on level roads, although you’ll notice the engine working harder on hills or when passing. Drivers who spend most of their time in stop-and-go traffic will likely see numbers closer to the city rating, while those with longer commutes will benefit from the higher highway MPG. The SOUL MPG across all years shows a consistent pattern of good, but not the best, fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Kia Soul 1.6L at exactly $1,500. This number assumes 15,000 miles driven per year and fuel prices at the time of calculation. Remember that changes in gas prices will directly affect this cost. Driving habits are also important. Hard acceleration, frequent braking, and long periods of idling will all result in a higher annual fuel bill, while a more careful driving style will help you stay closer to the EPA estimate. You can explore all Kia fuel economy data here.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a useful benchmark, but actual fuel economy often differs. Pay attention to your own driving. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the weight of your cargo can affect your MPG. Using premium fuel won’t improve your fuel economy, as the 1.6L is designed to run well on regular unleaded gasoline.

How it compares

The 2021 Kia Soul 1.6L is competitive compared to its rivals, but it’s not the best in its class. For instance, the Nissan Kicks achieves a combined 33 MPG with its 1.6L engine, making it a more fuel-efficient option. The Hyundai Venue, another similar competitor, also gets a combined 31 MPG according to EPA estimates. The Honda HR-V, with its available all-wheel drive, gets around 28 MPG combined. This comparison is important because these cars are direct competitors for the same buyers. The Soul’s strengths are its roominess and unique design, so shoppers are balancing fuel economy with other potentially more important factors.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are key to getting the best fuel economy in the 2021 Kia Soul. Avoid sudden speed increases and anticipate stops to minimize unnecessary energy loss. The 1.6L engine performs best with a light touch, so aim for gradual acceleration.

Regular tire maintenance is essential. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended level, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Keep idling time to a minimum. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Excessive idling wastes fuel without moving the car forward. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to let the engine run unnecessarily.

Reduce extra weight. The heavier the car, the more fuel it uses. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area to lighten the load. Every pound matters, especially when combined with the demands of city driving.