Kia’s special Soul blows in

06th November 2009

It's one in, one out for Kia!

Out goes the limited-edition Original Samba version of the Soul supermini-MPV, launched earlier this year – and in comes the striking silver Tempest.

The new model’s bumper inserts, door mirrors and 18-inch alloys are all finished in contrasting gloss black paint, giving a unique look.

Inside, the Soul’s upgrades continue. The Tempest comes specced up with a reversing camera, plus an enhanced audio system, incorporating a dash-top central speaker, rear subwoofer and external amplifier. In addition, there’s metallic-effect trim on the facia and chrome inserts on the dash and instrument clusters.

Buyers get a choice of 1.6-litre petrol or diesel engines, with a four-speed automatic transmission available on the latter – the first time a self-shifter has been offered on any Soul Original model. Prices start from £12,845.

But this isn’t the only new Kia special. The Picanto Graphite costs £8,495, and gets 14-inch alloys, remote locking, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, tilting steering wheel and air-conditioning.

A new Rio Graphite features front foglamps, air-con, alloy pedals and a leather steering wheel. It’s priced from £9,395.

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.