The 2014 Kia Soul uses two naturally aspirated inline-4 gasoline engines: a 1.6-liter option and a 2.0-liter option; neither was turbocharged in the U.S. market that year.
In this article, we outline the two engine choices, how they affect performance and fuel economy, and which configurations typically offered each option.
Engine options
Below is a concise guide to the two gasoline engines offered for the 2014 Soul, including what each one means for daily driving.
1.6-liter inline-4 — A smaller, efficiency-focused engine that provides adequate power for city driving and better fuel economy. It was generally paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim level.
2.0-liter inline-4 — A larger engine that delivers stronger acceleration and improved highway performance. It could be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on the configuration.
In summary, buyers could choose between a more efficiency-oriented 1.6L and a more capable 2.0L, with transmission options that varied by trim and market.
Performance and efficiency
The two engines share the Soul’s front-drive layout and similar drivetrain architecture, but their outputs influence everyday driving feel. The 1.6-liter engine emphasizes economy and nimble city driving, while the 2.0-liter provides stronger performance for highway merging and longer trips. Both engines were designed to offer practical, comfortable commuting with reasonable fuel economy for the class.
Fuel economy considerations
Fuel economy varies by engine choice, transmission, and trim. Generally, the 1.6-liter configuration tends to deliver higher mpg in typical urban driving, while the 2.0-liter setup offers lower mpg but stronger highway performance. Real-world numbers depend on factors such as driving style and conditions.
Trims and engine pairing
Across the 2014 Soul lineup, the smaller 1.6-liter engine was commonly found in base and mid-range configurations, while the larger 2.0-liter engine appeared in higher trims and certain package selections. Availability could vary by market, so buyers should check the specific model year and region to confirm which engine a given Soul includes.
Summary
The 2014 Kia Soul offered two straightforward naturally aspirated inline-4 engines: a 1.6-liter and a 2.0-liter. Neither engine was turbocharged in the U.S. that year. The 1.6-liter aimed for efficiency and city-friendly driving, while the 2.0-liter provided more robust performance for those who wanted extra highway capability. Transmission options included both manual and automatic configurations, with the exact pairing depending on trim and market. Overall, the engine lineup reflected Kia’s emphasis on practicality and value for the Soul’s urban-oriented personality.