In a nutshell, the 2018 Kia Soul offered multiple powertrains depending on trim and market: several gasoline engines plus an electric variant in some regions. The gasoline lineup typically included a 1.6-liter inline-4, an optional 2.0-liter inline-4, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 for turbo models; there was also the Soul EV in markets where it was sold.
To understand how these options played out in the lineup, it helps to break down what each engine was and where it appeared.
Gasoline powertrains
The U.S. model year 2018 Soul could be equipped with three gasoline engine options across trims, with transmissions paired accordingly.
- 1.6-liter inline-4 (Gamma GDI) — about 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque; typically paired with a 6-speed manual on base trims or a 6-speed automatic on higher trims.
- 2.0-liter inline-4 (Nu GDI) — about 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque; usually paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
- 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 (Gamma T-GDI) — about 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque; available on the Soul Turbo, generally with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
This mix gave buyers from efficient daily-driving options to a sportier turbo variant, depending on how they configured the car.
Soul EV
Electric motor and battery
In markets where Kia offered the Soul EV, the electric version used a dedicated electric drivetrain separate from the gasoline engines. The electric motor produced roughly 109 horsepower (81 kW) and about 210 lb-ft of torque, paired with a battery pack (27 kWh class) that influenced range and charging characteristics. The EV was a distinct powertrain from the gasoline options above and appeared in select markets and model years.
Note: Availability and specs vary by country and trim. In North America, the Soul EV was offered only in certain markets and for limited years, with subsequent updates to battery and software over time.
In summary, the 2018 Kia Soul offered a versatile engine lineup: a baseline 1.6L inline-4, a stronger 2.0L inline-4, a high-powered 1.6L turbo for the Turbo model, and, in select markets, an electric Soul EV with a dedicated motor and battery setup.
Summary: The Soul’s engine options for 2018 spanned multiple gasoline engines and an electric variant, giving buyers a broad spectrum of performance and efficiency within a single model line.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Kia Soul?
One of the most common problems involves difficulties with shifting gears properly, and in some cases, complete transmission failure. Engine and transmission stalling have also been reported, where the engine or transmission fails to maintain power or stalls entirely.
Is the Kia 2.5 L engine good?
Kia's 2.5L naturally aspirated gasoline engine is designed for efficiency and reliability, offering smooth power delivery and fuel economy across a variety of models.
Which Kia engine to stay away from?
2.4 l Theta II 4 cylinder engines were the absolute worst. Some burned crazy oil at 25k. KIA and Hyundai refused to replace them, even under warranty. Lawsuits galore before the manufacturer finally caved after years and years of known problems.
What engine does my 2018 Kia Soul have?
2018 Kia Soul power and drivetrain features
Its 1.6-liter Inline 4 can produce up to 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque; however, an upgrade to the Soul Plus (+) trim grants you access to its 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, which offers 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque!