NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2023 Kia Soul
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Kia Soul is a subcompact SUV with a distinctive boxy silhouette that has carved out a loyal following since its debut. Aimed at urban drivers and younger buyers who want personality alongside practicality, the Soul sits in a competitive segment that includes the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue. MotorCaliber covers the 2019 through 2025 model years, and the safety picture across that span deserves a careful, honest look.
Despite a strong crash-test showing, the 2023 Kia Soul carries a park-outside or stop-driving recall, so read the recall section first. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Kia Soul for its upright, space-efficient cabin, strong value positioning, and distinctive styling that sets it apart in the subcompact segment. Most find it an engaging and practical urban runabout. Handling and ride quality receive broadly positive marks, though some reviewers note that the driving experience feels more comfort-focused than sporty.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 17078
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL25V099000
Risk: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.
Reported 2025-02-17
AIR BAGS23V830000
Risk: An air bag that deploys unexpectedly can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace both side curtain air bag modules as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 31, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC289.
Reported 2023-12-22
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:FLUID/LUBRICANT:PUMP23V531000
Risk: An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC275.
Reported 2023-07-31
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL23V298000
Risk: A blank instrument cluster display will not show critical information, such as tire pressure, warning messages, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC270.
Reported 2023-04-26
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
48 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.