Kia Soul To Go on Sale in Late 2008

NEW YORK — Kia used the occasion of the New York auto show to confirm that its Soul crossover is now in the product pipeline, with a sales launch slated for late 2008. The Soul was originally unveiled as a concept car during the 2006 North American International Auto Show and seemed to strike a chord with young buyers.

Kia has not disclosed all of the technical specifications on the Soul just yet, only saying the front-drive crossover will be powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability and adaptive cruise control.

The Soul's styling verges on the quirky, with a wraparound windshield and bulging wheel flares. Another striking design cue is the lack of a B-pillar, which Kia hinted may be part of the production "soul."

"The Soul's side panel construction was designed with safety in mind and is strong enough to allow 'freestyle' passenger doors [rear-hinged in back]," Kia said in a statement.

In the cabin, the instrument panel is designed around front audio speakers. There are two semi-bucket seats in front and flat-folding rear seats.

© Source: article on insideline
We need your comments below >>