Kia Soul EV review

The Kia Soul EV is a good example of how designers can make a car easy to use. It shows the likes of the Nissan Leaf how things should be done, with a supportive driver’s seat that feels high enough without leaving you feeling unnaturally perched.

Regardless of which version you go for, the seat isn’t heavily bolstered but you’ll still find that there’s enough support to hold you in place around corners. Both come with plenty of seat adjustment, making it easy to get comfortable, but only the top-spec Explore trim comes with adjustable lumbar support and adds an electronically adjustable driver’s seat. 

Visibility is excellent out of the front, thanks to the relatively upright driving position and thin front pillars. The rear screen is a bit shallow, but it’s the heavily angled rear windows and thick rear pillars that do the most to restrict your over-the-shoulder view. Rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera are both standard, as are LED headlights with an automatic main beam.

When it comes to infotainment, opting for the entry-level Urban version gets you an 8.0in touchscreen, while the Explore version comes with a larger 10.25in one. We’ve tried the bigger screen, and it has sharp graphics that are easy to read and responds quickly to your prods.

Both come with plenty of standard features, including DAB radio, Bluetooth and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring. You’ll have to go for the larger system if you want built-in sat-nav, which also gives you up-to-date traffic and parking information.

You can download an app to your smartphone so you can check your Soul EV's battery charge status and location, as well as prime the interior temperature and set the sat-nav ready for your journey.