29 MPG combined is an acceptable figure for the 2020 Kia Soul equipped with the 1.6L four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission. It’s not groundbreaking, but it aligns with the Soul’s mission: affordable, practical, and stylish transportation for urban drivers and those who prioritize funky design over outright performance or all-out efficiency. The Soul buyer isn’t necessarily chasing the absolute best fuel economy, they’re seeking character and value, accepting mid-pack MPG as part of the overall package.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Kia Soul 1.6L at 27 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. This split reflects the engine’s tuning and the transmission’s ratios. The 1.6L engine provides adequate low-end torque for city driving, allowing the Soul to navigate stop-and-go traffic without feeling strained. The automatic transmission, with its seven gears, helps keep the engine in its optimal power band.

On the highway, the Soul settles into a reasonably efficient cruise, with the transmission selecting higher gears to reduce engine RPM and improve fuel consumption. However, its boxy shape does create more wind resistance at higher speeds, impacting highway MPG slightly.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Kia Soul 1.6L at $1,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you frequently travel, and the prevailing fuel prices in your region. Aggressive driving and consistent short trips will inflate your annual fuel bill, while prioritizing highway miles and employing efficient driving techniques will likely lower it. $1,500 is a good baseline for understanding the Soul’s running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can differ. Drivers have reported achieving figures close to the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions. Achieving over 32 MPG on the highway requires a conscious effort to drive conservatively, as the Soul’s upright design isn’t optimized for aerodynamics, and headwinds can noticeably reduce fuel economy.

Frequent acceleration and hard braking in the city will lead to lower MPG than the EPA’s 27 MPG estimate. Maintaining proper tire inflation and sticking to the recommended maintenance schedule are important for achieving the best fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2020 Kia Soul 1.6L’s fuel economy is competitive within its class. The Nissan Kicks, for instance, achieves a superior 31 MPG combined, making it a good choice for buyers interested in less gas. However, the Kicks prioritizes fuel efficiency, which can mean a less exciting driving experience and a cheaper interior.

The Honda HR-V, another competitor, achieves around 28 MPG combined in front-wheel-drive form, making it a very close match. For customers looking for all-wheel drive, the HR-V is a more appealing option because the Soul doesn’t offer it.

The Hyundai Venue, which shares mechanical components with the Kia, achieves similar fuel economy, around 30 MPG combined. The Venue appeals to customers looking for a simpler, less stylized option. People considering the SOUL MPG across all years already accept its economy, while buyers looking at all Kia fuel economy data are not choosing the Soul for its fuel efficiency alone, but for the combination of economy and styling.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important for maximizing fuel economy in the 2020 Kia Soul 1.6L. Avoid abrupt starts and hard braking, as these actions consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The Soul’s engine doesn’t need heavy throttle inputs to maintain speed, so practice light-footedness behind the wheel.

Proper tire inflation is important for achieving the best fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendations, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency noticeably.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without adding any value. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so don’t hesitate to switch off the engine when you’re stationary.

Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts. Cold engines are less efficient than warm engines. By grouping your errands, you reduce the number of times the engine needs to warm up, resulting in better overall fuel efficiency. Plan your route efficiently to avoid unnecessary detours.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra cargo adds weight, which increases fuel consumption. Remove items from the trunk or rear seats that are not essential for your daily commute. Even small weight reductions can contribute to improved fuel economy over time.