2017 Kia Soul

Kia went with subtly changes for most of the Soul for this yearly update, with the biggest being the new trim level, the Turbo. It isn't a choice many would expect from the boxy little roadster, adding a power boost to a funky hatchbox, but it's a choice Kia ran with and, by all accounts, succeeded in executing. 

Under the hood, the 2017 Kia Soul carries two engine options: a larger 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine for a bit of extra heft, and the new 1.6L Turbo I4. It's a turbocharged and direct-injected engine that reportedly gets 201-hp and 195 lb-ft of torque thanks to an additional 18 pounds of boost. And while the larger 2.0 liter engine has the option of a 6-speed manual, the only gearbox available for the Turbo is a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that puts power to the front wheels. And the 2017 Soul Turbo Exclaim is good for a stated 26 city mpg, 31 highway mpg and 28 combined mpg, which isn't too shabby given the boosted power ratings and smaller size. 

Tech-wise, the 2017 Kia Soul has just about every available option you could want. They've installed the latest-gen UVO3 dashboard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. We also see either a 7- or 8-inch color touchscreen display new for certain trims, optional eight-way power passenger seat, and two new USB center console chargers for any electronic device. Automatic climate controls are fun new additions to the upper Plus and Exclaim trim levels, with optional blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert ushering the 2017 Soul into the modern age for safety tech.