The 2017 Kia Soul’s 1.6L four-cylinder gets 28 MPG combined, which is acceptable. Kia never intended the base-engine Soul to be a fuel efficiency leader. This vehicle delivers distinctive style, surprising practicality, and urban maneuverability at an affordable price. Its target audience is more interested in its iconic boxy shape, cargo capacity, and quirky personality than extreme MPG.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway for the 1.6L Soul with the automatic transmission. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic where the small engine works harder, and the aerodynamics aren’t ideal. The 31 MPG highway rating is more achievable in real-world conditions, especially at consistent speeds. The tall, upright design isn’t optimized for slicing through the air like a sleek sedan. Highway driving will require some planning, particularly on steep grades or when fully loaded, the Soul’s modest horsepower necessitates using the throttle to maintain speed. Drivers should see reasonable fuel economy in mixed driving, but they shouldn’t expect the fuel efficiency of dedicated economy cars.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Kia Soul 1.6L at $1,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. However, the $1,550 provides a useful benchmark for understanding the Soul’s fuel consumption. Fluctuations in gas prices will directly impact this annual cost.

Real-world expectations

Owners report that achieving the EPA’s 28 MPG combined rating is realistic, but requires effort. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips in cold weather, and exceeding speed limits will lower your MPG. Conversely, smooth driving, careful route planning to avoid traffic, and keeping tires properly inflated can increase MPG. Don’t expect hybrid-like efficiency from this powertrain. The 1.6L engine is best with a relaxed driving style for fuel conservation. Kia offers other models with better MPG for customers who value efficiency, and you can see all Kia fuel economy data on our site.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles in the same class and price range, the 2017 Kia Soul 1.6L is in the middle of the pack for fuel economy. For example, a similarly equipped Honda HR-V from the same year gets around 31 MPG combined, a slight efficiency advantage while sacrificing some cargo space. A Nissan Kicks, introduced later, boasts up to 33 MPG combined, reflecting improvements in engine and transmission technology. A Scion xB, another boxy competitor, gets around 24 MPG combined if you are curious about older models. For those obsessed with MPG, other trim levels of this car get different MPG, see SOUL MPG across all years to get the full picture. The Soul 1.6’s fuel economy is adequate, but buyers should consider alternatives if fuel cost is a primary concern.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the relatively small engine of the 2017 Kia Soul 1.6L, it’s important to avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be shut off and restarted without significant wear, and even short periods of idling can noticeably reduce your overall fuel economy. If you’re waiting for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Proper tire inflation is another key factor in fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, ideally every few weeks, and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Even a few PSI below the recommended level can impact MPG.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 1.6L engine responds best to smooth inputs. Rapidly accelerating or braking wastes fuel and puts unnecessary stress on the engine and brakes. Anticipate traffic flow and adjust your speed accordingly. Gentle driving habits can make a noticeable difference.

Consider reducing your use of air conditioning, particularly on shorter trips. The air conditioning compressor places a load on the engine, which increases fuel consumption. When possible, use the ventilation system with the windows open, especially at lower speeds. This is a simple way to reduce fuel consumption.

Finally, be mindful of the Soul’s cargo capacity. While the upright shape is great for hauling cargo, carrying excessive weight reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, particularly heavy objects that you don’t need daily. Minimizing weight will improve your car’s overall efficiency.