30 MPG combined isn’t going to set the world on fire, but for the 2024 Kia Soul with its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, it’s an acceptable number. Soul buyers likely aren’t prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. They’re drawn to the Soul’s quirky styling, spacious interior, and value-focused price. This fuel economy meets expectations without being a deal-breaker.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Kia Soul at 27 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway with its naturally aspirated 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. This difference reflects the engine’s tuning and the behavior of the continuously variable transmission (CVT). City driving involves more stop-and-go, accelerating and decelerating, which strains fuel economy compared to the steady cruising of highway driving. The CVT helps optimize fuel efficiency by allowing the engine to stay in its most efficient RPM range for a given speed. However, it can sometimes feel a bit strained and noisy during hard acceleration, especially on highway on-ramps.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, you can expect to spend around $1,450 per year on fuel for the 2024 Kia Soul 2.0L. That figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using the national average fuel price when the EPA performed its testing. Your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, location, and current gas prices. This $1,450 annual fuel cost is a middling figure when you consider the Soul’s competition and what other vehicles cost to drive.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Many Soul owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates, particularly on longer highway drives. However, aggressive driving, heavy city congestion, and cold weather can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Mindful driving habits and well-maintained vehicles frequently exceed EPA testing. Expect somewhere between 25 MPG and 35 MPG in mixed driving conditions.

How it compares

The 2024 Kia Soul’s fuel economy places it competitively within its segment. The Nissan Kicks, another boxy and budget-friendly hatchback, achieves an impressive 31 MPG combined; however, it has even less horsepower than the Soul, and some drivers find it underpowered. The Hyundai Venue delivers 31 MPG combined as well, providing similar interior volume in a slightly shorter package. If you’re willing to spend more and prioritize fuel efficiency, hybrid options like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid offer significantly better mileage, often exceeding 50 MPG combined, but at a substantially higher initial cost. Of course, you can check all Kia fuel economy data to see how other vehicles in the lineup stack up, or examine SOUL MPG across all years to see its historical performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Kia Soul’s CVT is programmed to prioritize fuel efficiency, but abrupt acceleration will always burn more fuel. Gentle throttle application, especially from a standstill, helps the transmission settle into its optimal gear ratio quickly and reduces unnecessary engine strain.

Maintaining correct tire pressure is critical. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid carrying excess weight in your Soul. Removing unnecessary items from the cargo area reduces the overall weight of the vehicle, improving its fuel efficiency. Every extra pound adds up, especially in a small car like the Soul.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding peak traffic hours and opting for routes with fewer stops can significantly improve fuel economy. Stop-and-go traffic drastically reduces MPG, so smooth and consistent driving is key. Use cruise control on the highway when possible.

Regular maintenance is essential to keeping the Soul running efficiently. Properly maintained vehicles typically achieve better fuel economy. Changing filters, spark plugs, and other wear items according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule are necessary.