The 2021 Kia Soul Eco dynamics 2.0L 4-cyl achieves 31 MPG combined, a good balance between practicality and saving money on gas. The Soul’s boxy shape might suggest otherwise, but it’s not a gas-guzzling SUV. Instead, it’s a cleverly packaged hatchback designed for city drivers and anyone who wants space and versatility without spending a lot on fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2021 Kia Soul Eco dynamics 2.0L at 29 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go of urban driving, where the Soul’s compact size and responsive engine make it easy to navigate crowded streets. On the highway, the Soul’s fuel efficiency is strong, making it a comfortable and economical choice for longer drives. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) works to keep the engine in its most efficient range, contributing to the good highway number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Kia Soul Eco dynamics 2.0L is $1,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and gas prices. The $1,400 figure is a benchmark for comparing the Soul’s fuel economy to other vehicles. If you are thinking about buying a Soul, understanding that number in light of your own habits is important. A driver who lives in a rural area and regularly travels long distances might see their annual fuel cost come in higher than the EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized measure of fuel economy, real-world results can vary based on driving style, road conditions, and tire pressure. Owners of the 2021 Kia Soul Eco dynamics 2.0L often report fuel economy figures that are close to the EPA estimates, especially with good driving habits. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will hurt your fuel economy, while smooth and consistent driving will help maximize MPG. Regular vehicle maintenance, including oil changes and tire rotations, will also contribute to good fuel efficiency. You should compare the 2021 Soul’s numbers to recent SOUL MPG across all years to see if there are commonalities or notable differences across generations.

How it compares

The 2021 Kia Soul Eco dynamics 2.0L competes with other compact hatchbacks and crossovers. The Nissan Kicks, for example, gets 33 MPG combined, a slight advantage in fuel efficiency. The Honda HR-V achieves 28 MPG combined with its standard engine. The Hyundai Venue gets 31 MPG combined, so the Soul is right in line with it. The Soul’s styling, spacious interior, and many standard features also help it stand out. For buyers who want practicality and value, the Soul’s fuel efficiency and versatility are assets. Performance isn’t the main priority for buyers in this segment, but the VW GTI only achieves 27 MPG combined, showing that performance negatively impacts fuel economy.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to getting the best mileage from the Soul’s 2.0L engine. Avoid stomping on the gas pedal, especially from a standstill. Instead, gradually increase throttle pressure to let the CVT smoothly adjust and maintain optimal engine efficiency.

Pay attention to your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which can reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended level, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize air conditioning, especially on short trips. The A/C compressor puts strain on the engine, which can decrease fuel economy. When the weather permits, open the windows or use the fan instead of the A/C. Running the air conditioning at highway speeds is more efficient than opening the windows.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra weight places additional strain on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or passenger compartment that are not needed for your daily drives. Be sure you understand all Kia fuel economy data to see how they’ve improved over time.