Kia Soul EV Maxx (2022) Review

The Kia Soul EV Maxx is a distinctive player in the compact electric SUV market, boasting eye-catching styling, a tech-packed interior, and solid everyday practicality. It may not be your typical crossover, but that’s part of its charm. With a unique design, a versatile cabin, and Kia’s proven electric vehicle technology, the 2022 Kia Soul EV Maxx sets itself apart from the crowd. If you’re on the lookout for a compact EV that’s fun, functional, and a bit out of the ordinary, this could be just the ticket. Here’s why.

Whether you’re a city dweller looking for a practical yet distinctive electric car, or a small family seeking a tech-loaded compact SUV, the Soul EV Maxx is worth a look.

A Design That Defies Labels

One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2022 Kia Soul EV Maxx is its unconventional styling. It’s not quite an SUV, nor is it a traditional hatchback — it’s somewhere in between, with a boxy yet playful silhouette that makes it stand out in any parking lot. The design is bold and memorable, especially in vibrant color options like red or blue, but it might be a bit polarizing for those who prefer subtler aesthetics. While some might see the Soul’s shape as quirky and fun, others might think it’s a bit too out there.

However, there’s no denying that it has character. And in a market where so many cars look like variations of the same design, the Kia Soul EV Maxx’s distinctive style is a breath of fresh air.

Comfort and Space: A Practical Daily Driver

Step inside, and the Kia Soul EV Maxx impresses with its high driving position and excellent all-round visibility. The boxy shape not only gives it a unique exterior look but also translates into a surprisingly roomy cabin. Front and rear passengers have ample headroom, and the seating position feels natural and comfortable, even for taller drivers. The materials and fit-and-finish are good for the class, with the interior sporting soft-touch surfaces mixed with some hard plastics, particularly in lower areas.

The seats offer a nice blend of support and comfort, ideal for long drives. They’re not the sporty, bucket-style seats found in some rivals, but for most everyday journeys, they strike a good balance. Leather or faux leather upholstery adds a touch of sophistication, and with heated seats and a heated steering wheel available as standard, the Soul EV Maxx is well-equipped to keep you cozy on colder days.

One area where the Soul EV Maxx slightly falters is in boot space. Despite its tall stature, the cargo area offers only 315 litres of space — less than some of its competitors. While this is enough for a few weekend bags or a modest grocery run, those who prioritize cargo capacity may want to look at rivals like the Kia e-Niro, which offers more room for luggage or larger items.

Technology and Features: A Strong Suite of Equipment

The Kia Soul EV Maxx doesn’t skimp when it comes to technology. As standard, it’s loaded with features that you typically find on more expensive models. The star of the show is the 10.25-inch high-resolution touchscreen, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Navigation, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system all come standard, making the driving experience both enjoyable and stress-free.

Kia has struck a smart balance between digital interfaces and traditional physical controls. Everyday functions like adjusting the climate or turning on heated seats are managed through tactile buttons and dials, which is a plus for drivers who don’t want to fumble through menus while driving. The touchscreen is mostly reserved for less frequently used settings, which helps keep the driving experience intuitive and user-friendly.

Driving and Range: Smooth and Refined

How does the Kia Soul EV Maxx fare on the road? The answer is: very well. With its electric powertrain delivering instant torque, the Soul EV Maxx accelerates swiftly from a standstill, making it perfect for quick manoeuvres around town. Its official 0-62 mph time is a respectable 7.9 seconds, but what’s more relevant is how responsive it feels in the real world. Overtakes and merging on highways are effortless, thanks to the smooth power delivery.

The Soul EV Maxx’s handling is nimble and light, ideal for city driving. On highways, it remains composed, though the tall shape can make it a bit sensitive to crosswinds at higher speeds. Still, it’s a minor quirk rather than a serious drawback, and overall, the car is comfortable and confidence-inspiring.

Kia claims a maximum range of up to 280 miles on a full charge. While real-world figures often vary, most drivers can expect a reliable range of around 220 miles, depending on driving conditions and usage patterns. Charging is straightforward: with a 100 kW rapid charger, you can go from 0 to 80% charge in just under an hour, making long trips more feasible. Even if you’re using a standard home socket, charging overnight should give you plenty of range for daily commutes.

Competitors and Alternatives

If you’re shopping for a compact EV, the Kia Soul EV Maxx faces some stiff competition. One of its closest rivals is Kia’s own e-Niro, which offers more boot space (450 litres compared to the Soul’s 315) and a similar range. The Hyundai Kona Electric is another strong contender, with a sleeker design and similar feature set. For those wanting something a bit more premium, the Volkswagen ID.3 might also be worth considering, although it comes at a higher price point.

Ultimately, the choice between these models will come down to your priorities. If you value a bit of extra cargo space and more conventional styling, the e-Niro might suit you better. But if you’re after a car that’s unique, well-equipped, and fun to drive, the Kia Soul EV Maxx makes a compelling case.

Final Thoughts: A Fun, Tech-Savvy EV for the Bold

The 2022 Kia Soul EV Maxx is a fantastic option for those who want to break away from the typical SUV mould. Its quirky styling, extensive features list, and comfortable ride make it a strong contender in the compact EV segment. While it’s not without its quirks — such as the modest boot space — it delivers on the essentials that matter most: a spacious, comfortable interior, a good real-world range, and a fun driving experience.

Whether you’re a city dweller looking for a practical yet distinctive electric car, or a small family seeking a tech-loaded compact SUV, the Soul EV Maxx is worth a look. It’s not just another crossover — it’s a statement on wheels. If standing out is as important to you as efficiency and comfort, the Soul EV Maxx could be the ideal EV for your garage.

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