2009 Kia Soul I Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Kia Soul I ranges around 1270 kg (approximately 2800 lbs), which is the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo. Meanwhile, the maximum allowable weight, also known as gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), is 1680 kg (about 3704 lbs). This means the vehicle can safely carry an additional approximately 410 kg (904 lbs) including passengers, luggage, and any other load.

The Kia Soul I offers a practical luggage capacity of 370 liters (about 13.1 cubic feet) with all seats in place, which is suitable for everyday errands and moderate cargo needs. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity expands to 570 liters (approximately 20.1 cubic feet), providing significant additional space for larger or longer items, enhancing the vehicle's versatility for trips or carrying bulky loads.

Yes, the Kia Soul I fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With its length of 4105 mm (161.6 inches), width of 1785 mm (70.3 inches), and height of 1661 mm (65.4 inches), it is smaller than the average garage size, which typically ranges from about 6000 mm (236 inches) in length and 3000 mm (118 inches) in width. This compact SUV design makes it practical for city living where garage or parking space may be limited.

The Kia Soul I is equipped with 195/65R15 tires, a relatively standard size for vehicles of its class. The tire width of 195 mm and aspect ratio of 65 ensure a good balance between comfort, traction, and fuel efficiency. The 15-inch diameter wheels contribute to a stable ride quality and responsive handling, making the Soul both agile in city traffic and confident on highways.

The 2009 Kia Soul I was the first generation of the Soul model, so it has no direct predecessor within the Soul lineup. However, compared to small SUVs or compact crossovers available prior to its launch, it introduced a distinctive boxy design and compact footprint that differentiated it by offering more interior volume relative to its external dimensions, pioneering a unique segment blending hatchback practicality with SUV-style aesthetics.

Compared to other compact SUVs of the late 2000s, such as the Honda CR-V or Nissan Juke, the Kia Soul I is slightly shorter in length but offers competitive width and height, resulting in a roomy interior despite its smaller footprint. Its unique boxy shape maximizes usable interior space and cargo capacity relative to its compact external size, making it a popular choice for drivers seeking urban-friendly dimensions without compromising interior versatility.

The Kia Soul I is classified as a compact SUV or a small crossover. Its overall length of just over 4 meters and compact width make it suitable for urban environments where space is at a premium. Despite its compact size, the relatively tall height and boxy design help maximize interior passenger and cargo volume, aligning well with the expectations for a versatile urban vehicle that can handle both daily commuting and cargo needs.

The Kia Soul I's distinctive boxy exterior with a height of 1661 mm (65.4 inches) and width of 1785 mm (70.3 inches) translates into a spacious and airy cabin compared to other compact SUVs. Its 370 liters (13.1 cubic feet) of cargo space with passengers seated and 570 liters (20.1 cubic feet) with rear seats folded reflect a design focused on maximizing usability. This makes it comfortable for occupants and practical for carrying various sizes of cargo.

With a curb weight of approximately 1270 kg (2800 lbs), the Kia Soul I is relatively lightweight for an SUV, which positively affects fuel efficiency and handling. Its size allows for a good balance between agility and stability, making it economical for city driving with good maneuverability. The compact dimensions combined with efficient engine offerings of the era generally resulted in favorable fuel economy ratings, making it a cost-effective choice for drivers looking for style and practicality.