Kia Soul Third-Gen Review: Common Issues, Reliability, and Market News

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Journalists from Behind the Wheel reviewed the third‑generation Kia Soul and highlighted several issues that owners commonly report. The experts point to a few durability concerns that tend to surface as the vehicle ages. Among these, the trunk lid is often mentioned as a potential weak point, with some cases showing misalignment or wear over time. The area where the headlight assembly meets the body can rub paint, leading to chipped spots and, in some instances, corrosion if exposed to moisture. Additionally, the contact zones between the bumpers and fenders, particularly at the rear, show paint wear and bubbling in certain trims or climates. A recurring observation is that the windshield wipers wear down the glass coating more quickly than expected, and the headlights can fog up in humid or cold conditions, reducing visibility until cleaned.

Over a span of five to seven years, moisture penetration can affect electronic components such as rearview cameras and parking sensors, sometimes resulting in partial failure or degraded performance. Inside the cabin, after about one hundred thousand kilometers, owners may notice wear on the steering wheel wrap, which can become stiff or frayed with regular use. The eco‑leather on the seats can develop cracks, particularly in regions with significant temperature variation or exposure to sunlight.

Regarding powertrain reliability, the Kia Soul’s engines are generally considered dependable, with a typical service life reaching around 250 thousand kilometers under standard maintenance. A practical note for buyers is to be mindful of the turbocharged variant, which demands attentive maintenance and more frequent servicing compared to naturally aspirated options. This distinction is often echoed in consumer reports and owner forums where long‑term ownership experiences are discussed.

In other market news, Haval has announced plans to begin selling the second‑generation F7 crossover in Russia, with pricing estimates ranging from 2.7 million to 3.5 million rubles. The F7 measures 4780 millimeters in length and sits on a wheelbase of 2800 millimeters, with ground clearance varying from 183 to 191 millimeters. The lineup includes a 1.5‑liter turbo engine producing around 150 horsepower paired with front‑wheel drive, as well as a turbocharged two‑liter engine producing about 192 horsepower, both mated to a seven‑speed wet dual‑clutch automatic transmission. These specifications position the F7 as a compact crossover option in the regional market, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of efficiency and performance.

Earlier reports noted that Geely announced the Preface sedan had begun sales in Russia, a development closely watched by regional auto observers. The ongoing activity in the Russian market reflects a broader trend of new models expanding into this area, where pricing and feature sets are carefully weighed by buyers facing local tax and import dynamics. Analysts emphasize that regional demand for practical, well‑equipped sedans and crossovers continues to shape plant allocations and dealer networks across the country.

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