105 MPGe combined is a standout number for the 2016 Kia Soul Electric. This signifies that it’s an efficient urban car designed for city drivers who value distinctive styling and zero tailpipe emissions. These drivers are often willing to trade range for lower running costs, making the Soul EV a good option among electric vehicles.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the 2016 Kia Soul Electric’s efficiency further, revealing its strengths and weaknesses. Its 120 MPGe city rating highlights its proficiency in stop-and-go traffic, where regenerative braking captures energy that would otherwise be lost. This makes it ideal for navigating crowded urban environments. The EPA rates it at 92 MPGe on the highway. This indicates that the Soul EV is most efficient at lower speeds, which is typical for electric vehicles. Its aerodynamics aren’t optimized for high speeds. The target demographic for the Soul EV is more likely to be commuting within city limits, so these numbers matter. Potential buyers look to the SOUL MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost to be $700 for the 2016 Kia Soul Electric, based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average electricity price at the time of testing. This makes it one of the most affordable vehicles to “fuel” and offers drivers savings compared to a gasoline vehicle. Buyers may find it a selling point, especially if they have access to cheaper electricity.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful benchmark, real-world MPGe can vary based on driving style, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will diminish efficiency, as will prolonged high-speed driving. Colder temperatures also impact battery performance, reducing range and MPGe. However, careful driving habits, pre-heating the cabin while plugged in, and using the car’s Eco mode can help drivers achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. Understanding Kia fuel economy data is a plus here.

How it compares

The Kia Soul EV faced competition in 2016 from models like the Nissan LEAF. The LEAF, depending on the trim and battery pack, offered a similar range and MPGe ratings around 114 MPGe combined. The BMW i3, with its styling and lightweight construction, achieved around 124 MPGe combined. The Soul EV’s appeal was its conventional styling, spacious interior, and competitive price point. This made it an option for buyers who wanted an EV without sacrificing practicality or spending too much. Many shoppers found it to be the right balance: good price, efficient, and funky.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. The Soul EV offers adjustable regenerative braking levels that allow the driver to control deceleration when lifting off the accelerator. Anticipate traffic flow and slow down gradually, recapturing energy and extending your range.

Pre-condition the cabin while plugged in. Heating or cooling the car’s interior while connected to the charging station draws power from the grid rather than the battery, conserving energy and extending range, especially in extreme temperatures. This is a key tip for maximizing range during winter or summer.

Monitor your driving habits. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking consume energy. Smooth, steady driving optimizes efficiency. Many drivers watch the power output/regen display to monitor their effect on efficiency.

Use Eco mode. The Soul EV’s Eco mode limits power output and adjusts throttle response to conserve energy. It might slightly reduce performance, but it can improve efficiency, especially during highway driving or when range is a concern.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels to optimize fuel economy and tire life. Ensuring your tires are properly inflated is easily overlooked.