2013 Kia Soul Shaker

The model sits above the "2" specification version and shares some high-tech features with other models in the Soul Originals range, including iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control and air conditioning.

When compared to other Soul models in the lineup, the new Shaker edition will be distinguished by an exclusive paintjob, a new set of alloy wheels, and premium interior in a new unique ’Houndstooth’ design.

Kia also paid intensive attention to the car’s safety level and equipped the new Shaker with technologies like electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, vehicle stability management and hill-start assist control.

Exterior and interior

The new Soul Shaker will be distinguished by its special Vanilla Shake paintjob offered as standard — Quartz Black metallic is a no-cost option. The model will also receive a set of 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, LED rear combination lamps and high mounted brake light.

For the interior, the model adds premium cloth upholstery in a new unique ’Houndstooth’ design, combined with striking beige interior surfaces. Customers will also receive an electric tilt-and-slide sunroof, an automatically dimming rearview mirror with an integrated color reversing camera, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control (diesel model only), and air conditioning.

Engine

The new Kia Soul Shaker will be offered with a choice of two engines. First there will be a 1.6-liter CRDi turbo-diesel engine that delivers a total of 126 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a peak torque of 192 pound-feet delivered between 1,900 to 2,750 rpm. This engine is mates to a six-speed manual transmission and will sprint the Shaker from 0 to 60 mph in 10.3 seconds. The Soul Shaker will hit a top speed of 112 mph.

The second choice is a 1.6 GDi petrol engine that delivers a total of 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 122 pound-feet torque at 4,850 rpm. This version will sprint from 0 to 60 mph 0.3 seconds faster than the CRDi version, but will hit the same top speed of 112 mph.

Prices

The new Kia Soul Shaker is priced at £15,295 ($24,200 at the current exchange rates) for the 1.6 GDi version, while the diesel version is offered with a manual transmission for £16,690 ($26,400) or with an automatic transmission for £17,795 ($28,200).

Competition

If you are looking for a model with the same funky appearance, the Nissan Cube would be the first choice. Unfortunately, that isn’t an option, as Nissan hasn’t released the Cube to its British customers.

In the UK, customers will have to turn their attention to models like the Suzuki SX4. The model is just about to enter a new generation sometime in late 2013. Initial details suggest the model will get a design inspired by the Kizashi sedan, plus a new lineup of smaller engines. Top version will receive a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of about 150 horsepower and will be offered in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations.