Just had a chance to drive Kia's hip new Soul compact crossover, and have to say it's pretty impressive. From the funky stand-out styling to the gutsy 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine and slick five-speed manual gearbox, to the surprisingly roomy rear seat and long list of standard features, this wedge-shaped little cruiser might just have what it takes to accomplish the Korean automaker's goal: Actually making it cool to drive a Kia.
Helping in that regard are a long list of more than 50 "personalization" options, including an available 315-watt audio system with light-up speakers that pulsate in time with your music. Gimmicky yes, but kind of fun too.
What's really interesting about all these add-ons though is that they're yet another example of a growing trend towards "factory customization." With consumers spending millions of dollars on aftermarket accessories each year, carmakers are increasingly offering styling and performance-oriented options that allow buyers to personalize their new rides before they drive them off the dealer's lot.
To see a few more examples of this trend, check out the following DriverTV "virtual showroom experiences":
Leave a comment