2011 Kia Soul Base Trim Overview

The distinctly styled 2011 Kia Soul begins its trim lineup with the affordable Base. The entry-level Soul comes equipped with the basics, including air conditioning and power windows, door locks and mirrors, as well as a 3-month subscription to SIRIUS satellite radio that can be played through the 4-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system. Unlike higher-end trims (+, ! and Sport), however, little can be upgraded or added to the Base trim. Seating for five is covered in black cloth, and the rear seat's 60/40 split offers additional cargo space—increasing it from 19.3 cubic feet to 53.4.

The front-wheel-drive Base Soul comes equipped with a smaller engine than other trim levels—a 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive. The 4-speed automatic available at other trim levels is not an option for the Base. The 1.6-liter engine produces 122 hp and 115 lb-ft of torque and is designed for around-town driving, even with the manual transmission. Its fuel economy makes even the Base trim attractive, however, with estimates of 26 mpg for city driving and 31 for the highway.

The 2011 Soul Base trim does match the higher-end trims in its safety lineup, including dual front seat airbags, two front seat-mounted side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Antilock brakes with front and rear disc brakes are standard and include electronic stability control, traction control, electronic brake distribution, brake assist and a tire pressure monitoring system.