New Kia Soul to provide greater fuel efficiency

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, South Korean manufacturer Kia will present a new version of its Soul crossover, largely based on the Track'ster concept car presented by the brand in Chicago in 2012. The model will be marketed in Europe in early 2014.

The new Soul has undergone a facelift but maintains the general shape of the original model. For the first time, Soul will be available with a choice of three different colors for the roof (black, white and red) and 11 colors for the exterior. Perhaps the most significant update is the Soul's new platform, the same as that used in the Cee'd sportswagon. The update is said to provide optimal driving comfort and handling.

A customizable crossover

Under the hood, the Soul will be equipped with Kia's latest 1.6L GDI fuel engine or CRDi diesel engine, with a choice of manual or automatic 6-speed transmission. According to Kia, these latest motors provide greater fuel economy than their predecessors, although no figures have been released for now.
The new Soul will be available in Europe early next year with a host of new features, including LED daytime running lights, Xenon headlights, the 'Smart Key' system for keyless entry, automatic air conditioning, cruise control, leather seating, and heated seats. Brand new accessory kits will also be available to provide the maximum possibility for customization.

Concept cars abound

Visitors to the Kia stand will also see the new, restyled versions of the Sportage and of the Optima premium sedan, as well as a prototype for a compact sports utility vehicle, known for the time being as the KED 10. The model, which aims to be both fun and sporty, will be Kia's third concept car this year, coming on the heels of the 'Provo' hybrid crossover presented in Geneva and the 'Cub,' a four-door coupe exhibited in Seoul.

(65th Frankfurt Motor Show, September 12 to 22, 2013, Website: iaa.de)

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