The 2016 Kia Soul ECO dynamics 2.0L 4-cyl gets 26 MPG combined. This figure won’t set any records, but consider the Soul’s boxy, upright, and stylish design. Its value is affordable practicality with personality. It’s a hit with first-time car buyers, urban dwellers, and those prioritizing cargo space and ease of parking over fuel savings. These people want a unique car and are willing to accept slightly below-average fuel economy in return.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Soul’s city fuel economy at 24 MPG. In dense, stop-and-go urban environments, this number is realistic. The 2.0L engine provides adequate power for merging and navigating city streets, but its efficiency suffers when frequently accelerating from traffic lights. On the highway, the Soul does a bit better, achieving an EPA-estimated 30 MPG. This makes it a reasonable choice for longer commutes or weekend trips.

The automatic transmission’s six gears help keep the engine at cruising speed, contributing to the relatively good highway number. But, the Soul’s boxy shape creates aerodynamic drag at higher speeds, slightly diminishing fuel economy compared to more streamlined vehicles.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Kia Soul ECO dynamics 2.0L 4-cyl is $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the fuel type you use.

While $1,700 might seem substantial, consider the Soul’s affordable price, relatively low maintenance costs, and strong warranty coverage. These add to its overall value.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who often encounter heavy traffic, drive aggressively (rapid acceleration and braking), or carry heavy loads likely see fuel economy numbers below the EPA estimates. Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, maintain consistent speeds, and minimize idling often achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA figures.

Tire pressure also plays a role. Keeping your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure minimizes rolling resistance and improves fuel economy. It’s always a good idea to track your fuel consumption over time to get a more accurate understanding of your Soul’s real-world fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2016 Kia Soul’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The Nissan Cube, another quirky and boxy competitor, got a similar 27 MPG combined with its 1.8L engine. The Honda HR-V, with its more conventional SUV styling, gets a slightly better 28 MPG combined with its 1.8L engine and CVT transmission. The Mazda3 hatchback, although not directly comparable in terms of styling, offers a significantly better 33 MPG combined with its 2.0L engine in its “i” trim.

This highlights the Soul’s trade-off: buyers accept slightly lower fuel economy for its design and practical cargo space. See all Kia fuel economy data for a wider comparison. Compare the SOUL MPG across all years to see trends for the vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.0L engine in the 2016 Soul responds well to gentle acceleration. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking, as these consume more fuel. Smooth and gradual acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently, maximizing the distance you cover per gallon of gasoline.

The Soul’s automatic transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy. Let the transmission shift naturally, and avoid manual shifting unless necessary. The automatic transmission’s programming prioritize fuel efficiency, keeping the engine in its optimal operating range.

Minimize idling time. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, significantly reducing your fuel economy, especially in urban environments.

Regular maintenance is critical for maintaining fuel economy. Ensure that your Soul’s engine is properly tuned and that the air filter is clean. A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing its efficiency. Properly inflated tires also help achieve the EPA estimates.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy. Cruise control helps prevent speed fluctuations, which can waste fuel. Driving at a steady speed also reduces aerodynamic drag, improving fuel efficiency.