The 2016 Kia Soul 1.6L gets 26 MPG combined. It won’t win any hypermiling awards, but it works for the right buyer. This isn’t a car chasing outright efficiency; it’s about affordable, stylish, and practical transportation. For the city dweller who values personality and cargo space over Prius-like fuel consumption, the Soul’s MPG is an acceptable trade-off for its distinctive design and urban-friendly footprint.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway highlight the Soul’s intended use. The 1.6L engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, is geared more towards providing adequate pep in stop-and-go traffic than maximizing highway miles. The lower city MPG suggests the engine works harder during frequent acceleration and deceleration. The highway figure, while not stellar, is reasonable for a boxy vehicle that isn’t particularly aerodynamic. The Soul is most comfortable and efficient when cruising at consistent speeds, but its shape inevitably impacts fuel consumption at higher velocities.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Kia Soul 1.6L is $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and where you live because fuel prices vary significantly across the country. For someone doing mostly short trips in an urban environment, this $1,700 estimate might prove optimistic. Someone doing mostly highway driving should see savings closer to average, but the $1,700 remains the key starting point for budgeting annual transportation costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world MPG often varies. Soul owners frequently report figures close to the official estimates, but aggressive driving or heavy urban usage can easily drop the combined MPG into the low 20s. Conversely, careful driving on longer highway stretches might push it closer to the mid-30s. Tire pressure, ambient temperature, and even the type of fuel used can all play a role in observed fuel economy. The most important factor is the driver’s behavior. Heavy acceleration and frequent braking will always reduce MPGs.

How it compares

The Soul’s fuel economy places it in a competitive position versus other similarly sized vehicles for similar uses. A Nissan Versa Note, for example, achieves around 31 MPG combined, offering slightly better fuel economy but a less distinctive style. A Honda HR-V delivers roughly 28 MPG combined, offering a more conventional small SUV experience, with optional all-wheel drive. Compared to these vehicles, the Soul finds a point between fuel efficiency and styling. The Mazda CX-3, known for its fun driving dynamics, achieves 29 MPG combined, but typically costs more. The buyer choosing a Soul is willing to sacrifice a few MPGs for greater practicality in its cargo area and its unique look. For a more detailed picture of all Kia fuel economy data, it’s worth exploring the entire range of Kia vehicles. You can also explore SOUL MPG across all years for deeper comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is critical to efficiency in the 1.6L Soul. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, especially from a standstill. The engine is relatively small, so it will consume more fuel when pushed hard. Smooth, predictable acceleration will help the engine stay in its most efficient range and keep your MPG high!

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which directly reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker in the driver’s side door jamb. Even a few PSI below the recommended level can noticeably impact fuel consumption.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the Soul’s spacious interior or on the roof rack impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, as every pound adds up and requires more energy to move the vehicle. Less weight equals less fuel, particularly in stop-and-go city environments.

Minimize idling. The 1.6L engine is not particularly efficient at idle. When stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, if it’s safe to do so. This is especially important in urban settings where frequent stops at traffic lights are common. Restarting consumes less fuel than prolonged idling.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic. The Soul’s fuel economy suffers in heavy congestion. Whenever possible, choose routes that offer a more consistent speed, even if it means a slightly longer distance. Highway driving, even with the Soul’s boxy shape, is usually more efficient than navigating dense city streets.