Garden Grove Kia

Is the 2017 Kia Soul getting a turbocharged engine?

When it comes to powertrains, automakers are sort of scrambling to find the best solution for the future. On the one hand, hybrids seem like the way to go because they increase fuel economy and have a lower impact on the environment as a result, but the extra electric motor and battery pack come at a higher starting cost. There’s a fine balance to strike between practical and affordable, and it seems virtually every brand is trying to strike while the iron is hot and direct the course of future technology. That’s all well and good, but what about today’s drivers? After seeing what Kia has brought to the LA Auto show, it seems like there’s a possibility the 2017 Kia Soul is getting a turbocharged engine, which could be a great step for the current model year.

2017 Kia Soul engine options

The 2017 Kia Soul hasn’t been released yet, but it doesn’t sound like we’ll be losing either of the two current engine options. For the 2016 model year, the Soul comes standard with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and 118 pound feet of torque. The higher trims, Plus (+) and Exclaim (!), have a 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder with a 164 horsepower and 151 pound-feet output.

More for 2017: What is 2017 Kia Sorento Drive Mode Select?

For 2017, it looks like the top trim level, the 2017 Kia Soul Exclaim (!) will be upgraded with a 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI engine. A turbocharger differs from a naturally-aspirated engine in that it forces air in, allowing for engines with smaller displacement, but more power and better fuel economy. The 1.6-liter turbo four delivers up 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This is already quite the boost in performance, but it’s further aided by a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, compared to the current six-speed single clutch automatic.

The 1.6-liter turbo returns an EPA-estimated 26 city and 31 highway mpg rating, which is only a slight increase over previous engine options, but impressive considering the large boost in horsepower and torque. Pricing for the trim has not been announced, but stay tuned here at the Garden Grove Kia Blog for updates.