VERDICT · VERIFY THE DCT'S SOFTWARE UPDATE HISTORY

Kia Soul 1.6L Turbo
is it a safe used buy?

The performance-oriented turbo trim on this Soul generation — the same 1.6 Turbo and 7-speed DCT combination covered in detail on the related Tucson's engine page.

GENERATION2nd gen Turbo (2017–2019)

ENGINE1.6L Turbo

POWER201 hp

USED PRICE$11,500–17,500

How the engine fits this car

The performance-oriented turbo trim on this Soul generation — the same 1.6 Turbo and 7-speed DCT combination covered in detail on the related Tucson's engine page.

Genuinely quick for the segment, with the same transmission checklist worth taking seriously before buying.

Kia Soul-specific pros and cons

This is about the car itself — for engine-specific failure points, see the dedicated engine page below.

WHAT HOLDS UP WELL

Genuinely quick, engaging performance versus the standard naturally aspirated Soul
Engine itself is meaningfully more dependable than Kia's earlier Theta II generation
Distinctive styling with surprisingly practical interior packaging
Strong manufacturer warranty coverage on most model years

WHAT TO WATCH

Dry dual-clutch transmission hesitation, detailed on the Tucson's engine page, applies equally here
Carbon buildup on intake valves, the usual direct-injection trade-off
Insurance costs run somewhat higher than the standard Soul
DCT clutch wear is more pronounced in stop-start city driving

Pricing on the used market

Mileage band

Typical price

What to expect

Under 40,000 mi

$15,000–17,500

Still test drive and check update history regardless

40,000–70,000 mi

$13,000–15,000

Sweet spot, verify DCT software update status

70,000+ mi

$11,500–13,000

Inspect DCT behaviour closely before buying

The engine itself

This Soul Turbo shares its 1.6 Turbo and 7-speed DCT with the related Hyundai Tucson. The transmission checklist on that shared engine page is essential before buying.

FULL ENGINE BREAKDOWNHyundai 1.6L Turbo GDI + 7-Speed DCT — Reliable or Not →

Pre-purchase checklist for this generation

Test drive extensively at low speed, including stop-start conditions, feeling for hesitation.

Ask whether the transmission has received manufacturer software updates.

Check whether extended warranty coverage still applies in your region.