Kia has announced a raft of updates for both the Soul compact SUV and the Carens family MPV ahead of this year’s Paris Motor Show.
Among the upgrades includes a new 201bhp engine for the Soul, making it the most powerful version of the car ever made, plus a fresh new look for the Carens.
The Kia Soul also benefits from a light aesthetic update, with redesigned front and rear bumpers, plus LED daytime running lights and a metallic skid plate on the front for added toughness.
New looks for both Soul and Carens
It also gets some new kit, including a choice of either five-, seven- or eight-inch touchscreen infotainment systems, which feature integrated rear view cameras and smartphone connectivity.
The Soul will now also be available with the same 201bhp 1.6-litre T-GDI petrol engine that comes in the pro_cee’d GT, which can take the Soul to 62mph from a standstill in just over 7.5 seconds.
With power put through a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, it’ll be able to go on to a top speed of 122mph, but Kia says still emits just 156g/km.
Most powerful Soul ever
Other upgrades for the Soul 1.6 T-GDI include a distinctive exterior with bolder bumpers and larger air intakes, plus twin tailpipes at the rear and 18-inch alloy wheels with a bespoke design.
Meanwhile, the Carens MPV gets a fresh look with revised bumpers and an updated grille design, along with the addition of a new Mysterious Blue paint option and three new wheel designs.
Inside, the Carens is now available with a choice of two new seat upholstery options, along with the latest version of Kia’s infotainment system controlled via a seven- or eight-inch touchscreen.
On sale later this year
Kia has also added the option of a new Eco Pack for the 1.7-litre diesel version of the Carens, which fits it with revised gear ratios and low rolling resistance tyres to reduce its carbon footprint.
According to Kia’s official figures, the Carens with the Eco Pack is capable of producing CO2 emissions of just 109g/km when equipped with the standard six-speed manual gearbox.
Pricing and full specifications for the updated Kia Soul and Carens models are expected to be unveiled later this year, with both ranges due to go on sale towards the end of 2016.
