The 2015 Kia Soul 2.0L gets 26 MPG combined. It’s not going to win any hypermiling contests, but it’s perfectly acceptable for this affordable, funky, and practical car. This isn’t transportation engineered for ultimate efficiency. It’s a statement, a lifestyle choice, and a budget-friendly alternative to the mundane econoboxes that often get better mileage. Soul buyers prioritize style and cargo space. They consider fuel costs simply a part of the ownership experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 23 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway for the 2015 Kia Soul 2.0L with the automatic transmission. The Soul’s upright shape doesn’t help its aerodynamics at freeway speeds. Thus, the drop-off from city to highway figures is less dramatic than in more streamlined cars.

Around town, the 2.0L engine provides adequate pep for navigating urban traffic, though you’ll likely find yourself using a heavier foot to compensate for the car’s weight. The six-speed automatic is smooth. It is programmed for efficiency first.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Kia Soul 2.0L at $1,700. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary based on local fuel prices and your personal driving habits. Someone who drives primarily in stop-and-go traffic will likely see a higher annual cost than someone who does mainly highway miles. This number assumes the use of regular unleaded fuel; it is the recommended grade for the Soul 2.0L.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Many 2015 Kia Soul 2.0L owners report figures around the EPA’s combined rating, though some see slightly lower numbers in city driving and slightly higher numbers on the highway. Factors like tire pressure, driving style, ambient temperature, and the use of accessories like air conditioning can all impact fuel economy. Consistent maintenance, including regular oil changes and air filter replacements, also helps optimize performance.

How it compares

The 2015 Kia Soul’s fuel economy is roughly in the middle of its competitive set. A Nissan Versa Note, for example, gets an EPA-rated 31 MPG combined, offering an advantage for those prioritizing less gas. On the other hand, a Fiat 500L manages around 25 MPG combined, even though it has similar styling and interior space. Some compact sedans like the Toyota Corolla LE achieve upwards of 32 MPG combined, yet offer a more conventional driving experience. Buyers drawn to the Soul’s design and hatchback versatility find the fuel economy difference an acceptable trade-off. For those interested in other years, be sure to check out SOUL MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to accelerate aggressively. The Kia Soul’s 2.0L engine responds best to smooth, gradual throttle inputs. Avoiding quick starts and maintaining a steady speed will help you save fuel, especially in city driving. This engine and transmission consume more fuel if you accelerate quickly.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance. This forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s load, hurting fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk or cargo area, as even small amounts of extra weight can add up over time.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing fluctuations in throttle input that can waste fuel. It’s effective on long, relatively flat stretches of highway where traffic is light. Be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain. The car may downshift frequently, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and choosing routes with fewer stoplights can improve your fuel economy, particularly in city driving. Consider using a navigation app that provides real-time traffic updates to help you find the most efficient path. If you’re curious about fuel economy across all Kia models, you can find all Kia fuel economy data here.