2014 Kia Soul to put on SUV attire in Europe

It’s another Frankfurt Motor Show unveiling, and it’s a Kia. But this one in particular does stand out, because it seems that the funky Kia Soul is putting on an SUV (or rather, a crossover) attire for 2014 in Europe.

And while that news is funky in itself, we hear that the “urban crossover” which enters its second generation since its debut in 2009 is bigger than the traditional and outgoing model. Interestingly, Kia says its look has been inspired in part by the Track’ster concept, which we thought was inspired by the Soul in the first place.

Also, as of now, only European buyers will be able to opt for the ‘SUV Styling Pack’, which includes a piano-black trim on the bumpers, wheel arches and side skirts. The roof can apparently be painted in black, white or red, and there’ll also be an option for 11 exterior colours, but that will probably be common to the global spec.

The new Soul is also based on the Kia Cee’d, and features greater cabin space and cargo capacity. As a matter of fact, leg, head and shoulder room are increased, and cargo area is increased by 4 percent to 354 litres. Then there’s the additional underfloor storage if that isn’t enough.

As for the juice, we’re looking at Kia’s 1.6-litre GDi petrol and CRDi diesel engines to power the Soul. The petrol variant is expected to produce 132 hp and 163 Nm of torque.

The 2014 Soul will be available in Europe with a range of new premium features including front daytime LED lights and rear LED ‘halo’ lights, xenon headlights, keyless entry and push-button engine start, automatic climate control, cruise control, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, panoramic glass sunroof and heated and electrically folding exterior mirrors.

We’re expecting more news on confirmed engine specs and various other trim levels after its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this month. So, at this point we’re not sure whether we will be privileged enough to get the ‘SUV Styling Pack’. Expect an early 2014 entry of the Kia Soul into UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the rest of the GCC.