2020 Kia Soul Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- A significant engine defect affecting piston oil rings was addressed by recalls, requiring inspection and potential engine replacement. Confirm this recall work is completed.
- Despite zero owner complaints logged, the engine recall and a high TSB count (25) indicate potential underlying issues that could affect long-term reliability.
- The Soul achieves a combined EPA-estimated 27 MPG, contributing to reasonable running costs, though high fuel costs are a consideration.
- Safety is a strong point, with 4 out of 5 stars overall from NHTSA, including a perfect score in side crash tests.
2020 Kia Soul
The 2020 Kia Soul presents itself as a practical and stylish compact car, offering a unique design and versatile interior for its class. It delivers respectable fuel economy, making it a potentially cost-effective daily driver. However, used car shoppers must be aware of a critical engine defect related to piston oil rings, which has led to manufacturer recalls. While the vehicle boasts strong safety ratings, this engine issue, coupled with a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), suggests a need for careful pre-purchase scrutiny.
Critical Failure Risk
A recall addresses improperly heat-treated piston oil rings in the 2.0L Nu MPI engine. This defect can lead to engine damage, potentially requiring a full engine replacement. The remedy includes inspection, potential engine replacement, and software updates.
Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$8,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by small boot.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing practicality and distinctive styling.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers prioritizing absolute mechanical reliability without extensive checks.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2020 Kia Soul Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Kia Soul.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27
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See the full 2020 Kia Soul buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Engine Damage due to Piston Oil Rings
Most reportedUsage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2020 Kia Soul reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Kia Soul is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2020 Kia Soul for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 315 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2020 Kia Soul?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Kia Soul is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 4.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Kia Soul?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Piston Oil Rings) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $8,000+).
What engine is in the 2020 Kia Soul?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2020 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Kia Soul, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Kia Soul?
EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.
What kind of powertrain does the 2020 Kia Soul use?
Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Kia Soul?
13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2020 Kia Soul?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Kia Soul, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2020 Kia Soul?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Kia Soul, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2020 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Kia Soul, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Kia Soul?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Kia Soul?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.