by Kia Soul Production Completion
Kia has officially confirmed the discontinuation of the Soul model in October 2025 after 16 years on the market and sales of over 1.5 million units in the US alone. This car, initially considered unusual and eccentric, eventually became key to the transformation of the brand’s image, helping Kia become a recognizable and successful brand.
Unique Design and Concept
The Soul model debuted in 2009 with a design that stood out sharply against the backdrop of other compact cars of that time. The inspiration for the shape came from the image of a “boar with a backpack,” symbolizing durability and practicality without excessive size. This square shape remained virtually unchanged after the transition from concept to serial production and quickly gained popularity.
Iconic Advertising Campaigns
Creative commercials with animated hamsters dancing to hits by bands like Black Sheep and LMFAO played a significant role in popularizing the Soul. This campaign went viral even before the concept of “virality” became widely used. The advertisement presented the Soul as the coolest club on wheels, contributing to the rapid growth of brand recognition.
Evolution and Concepts
Over the years, the Soul became a kind of testing ground for experiments: concepts were developed, including convertibles and track-oriented sports versions. Although most of them did not reach serial production, they continued the spirit of the original model.
“The Soul was one of the foundations on which Kia strengthened its position in the US. This unique car and the marketing that accompanied it helped Kia achieve today’s status,” noted Eric Watson, Vice President of Sales at Kia America.
Sales Decline and Legacy
The peak of Soul sales occurred in 2015, and since then the figures have not reached previous heights. Despite this, the model remains a symbol of the combination of practicality, style, economy, and individuality at an affordable price. Currently, several thousand units remain with dealers, so fans of the model have the opportunity to purchase it while it is still possible.
The discontinuation of the Soul production occurs against the backdrop of Kia’s overall sales growth, which sets new records every year. This indicates that the brand is reorienting towards modern crossovers and electric models that correspond to current market trends. However, the Soul remains an important part of the company’s history, which proved that a non-standard approach can lead to long-term success.
