Today: 9:00AM - 8:00PM
Blog / Dickinson Kia Dealer

4 Reasons Millennials Love the 2017 Kia Soul

Kia Soul
Kia nailed it with the millennial generation when it launched the Soul in 2010. Was it the marketing campaign with those music-loving paw-tapping hamsters, the quirky boxy design, or the affordable price? What's clear is that Kia made a conscious decision to target the Soul at millennials, and they succeeded. That winning recipe continues in 2017.

It's a Crossover

Crossovers are all the rage at the moment. The Soul is a subcompact crossover that's been voted the best in its class. It's not a grown-up SUV with all the bells and whistles but a small car with that SUV feel. This is one reason it's so popular with millennials. Hatchbacks are so last year. Crossovers are what everyone wants.

Three Trims for Every Type of Millennial

The Soul comes in three trims. The Base model, in manual or automatic, has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 130 horsepower output. The manual costs $16,100, ideal for younger millennials looking for value for money. If you prefer an automatic, you'll pay $1,600 more. The Plus (+) has a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic shifting. A 2.0-liter engine offers a bit more power. On the + you get extra features like cruise control with steering-mounted controls, rear-camera display, and automatic temperature control. A new turbocharged version called Exclaim (!) joins the 2017 lineup. This is exciting news for those wanting more oomph and snazzier styling. The ! features a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, a sport mode, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged direct injection engine that puts out 201 horsepower. The design is edgier with broader 18-inch wheels and red accents on the exterior. This follows through on the interior with orange stitching contrasting against black cloth and leather seats.

Must-have Technology

Millennials are a tech-savvy generation. They've been plugged into cell phones and PlayStations since they were kids. Driving around in a car from the 80s just won't work. The Soul meets the basic technology needs with a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, a USB port, and SiriusXM radio. For more features, move up to the + that has a five-inch color touch-screen and a navigation system. Since the first Soul, millennials loved that the speaker lights glow and pulse to the beat of the music. That cool feature remains an option for the + and ! trims. If you really can't exist without mobile phone connectivity, then the ! is for you. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a seven-inch infotainment system with voice-command functionality. The ! ups the game a bit more with supervision meter cluster with 4.3-inch color LCD display and push-button start.

Spacious and Comfortable

This may be a small car but it is deceptively large. The 40.9 inches of front legroom and 39.1 inches of rear legroom keep front and back passengers comfortable. As for cargo space — fold down the rear seats and you'll have 61.3 inches of cargo room. This means the Soul suits both the single college kid and the 30-year old parents with a small family. The Kia Soul is great bang for your buck and it's cute, spunky, and fun to drive. No wonder millennials and those street cool hip hamsters love it. This photo, "Souls by Bill Smith used under CC BY 2.o. "Souls" is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.
Posted in:

Related Posts

Kia SUV parked outdoors with a scenic mountain backdrop and greenery overhead

Best Kia SUV Options for 2025-2026 in Dickinson, TX

Kia’s 2025-2026 lineup is packed with versatile and feature-rich SUVs designed to meet the needs of every driver. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly ride, a hybrid option, or a tech-savvy vehicle, Kia has you covered. In this blog, we’ll explore the best Kia SUVs, including a comparison of the Telluride, Sorento, and Sportage, to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle in Dickinson, TX. more Why Choose a Kia SUV? Kia SUVs are renowned for their reliability, advanced technology, and stylish designs. With options ranging from compact crossovers to full-size family haulers, Kia offers something for everyone. The brand’s commitment to safety and innovation ensures that every model is equipped with cutting-edge features like Kia Connect for seamless connectivity and advanced driver-assistance systems for peace of mind. For drivers in Dickinson, TX, Kia SUVs provide the perfect balance of performance and practicality. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out on a weekend adventure, these vehicles are built to handle it all. Telluride vs Sorento vs Sportage: Which is the Best Kia SUV? 2027 Kia Telluride: The Ultimate Family SUV The 2027 Kia Telluride continues to set the benchmark for full-size SUVs. With seating for up to eight passengers and a powerful turbo-hybrid engine option delivering up to 274 horsepower, the Telluride is perfect for families who need space and performance. Its bold design and premium interior features make it a standout choice. Advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist come to standard, ensuring you and your loved ones stay protected on the road. For those in Dickinson, TX looking for a spacious and luxurious ride, the Telluride is hard to beat. 2026 Kia Sorento: Versatility Meets Efficiency The 2026 Kia Sorento offers a versatile mid-size SUV option with multiple powertrain choices, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. This makes it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers who don’t want to compromise on capability. With seating for up to seven passengers and ample cargo space, the Sorento is ideal for families or individuals who need flexibility. Its sleek design and advanced infotainment system make every drive enjoyable. If you’re comparing the Telluride vs Sorento vs Sportage, the Sorento stands out for its balance of size and efficiency. 2026 Kia Sportage: Compact Yet Capable For those seeking a compact SUV with big capabilities, the 2026 Kia Sportage delivers. Available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, the Sportage combines fuel efficiency with modern styling and advanced technology. Its smaller size makes it perfect for urban driving while still offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Sportage also comes equipped with Kia’s latest safety features, ensuring confidence on every journey. If you’re in Dickinson, TX and need an agile yet versatile vehicle, Sportage is an excellent choice. Choosing the Right Kia SUV for You When deciding between Telluride, Sorento, and Sportage, consider your specific needs. Do you need maximum space and luxury? The Telluride is your go-to option. Looking for a balance of size and efficiency? The Sorento has you covered. Prefer a compact SUV with hybrid options? The Sportage is an ideal fit. No matter which model you choose, Kia’s industry-leading warranty provides peace of mind for years to come. Drivers in Dickinson, TX can rest assured knowing they’re investing in a reliable and innovative vehicle. Visit Gay Family Kia Today Kia’s 2025-2026 SUV lineup offers something for everyone, making it easier than ever to find your perfect match. Whether you’re drawn to the spacious Telluride, the versatile Sorento, or the compact yet capable Sportage, each model delivers exceptional value and cutting-edge features. For drivers in Dickinson, TX looking for the best Kia SUV to suit their lifestyle, now is the perfect time to explore these incredible options. Visit Gay Family Kia to learn more about these models and take one for a test drive today!

2025 Kia Niro Hybrid Dickinson, TX

5 Innovative Features of the 2025 Kia Niro Hybrid

The 2025 Kia Niro Hybrid is a great choice if you're hunting for an SUV that can handle daily driving and frequent adventures. The Niro Hybrid is equipped with innovative features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety on every drive. more 1. Efficient Hybrid Powertrain The new Kia Niro Hybrid offers you eco-friendly driving with a hybrid powertrain that features a 1.6-liter engine and an electric motor. This duo has a total output of 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. With a 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, you'll enjoy smooth shifts and quick acceleration for thrilling drives. The Niro Hybrid gets 53 mpg around town and 54 mpg on the highway, so you'll save a ton on gas. 2. Multi-Function Center Display Inside, you will find a multi-function center display that lets you control audio, connectivity, and vehicle info. The base LX comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, while all the other trims upgrade to a 10.25-inch unit. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, you can stay connected on the go, stream content, send texts, and get directions and traffic updates. All trims except the base have SiriusXM satellite radio, which gives you access to a variety of ad-free entertainment channels. The available voice recognition feature lets you control music, navigation, and other functions without taking your hands off the wheel. 3. Advanced Driver Assistance Technology The Kia Niro Hybrid keeps you safe on the road with driver-assist tech like forward collision avoidance assist. This feature monitors the road ahead for hazards and can apply the brakes automatically to prevent collisions. You'll also find safety features such as lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, lane following assist, blind spot collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Kia's navigation-based smart cruise control is available. 4. Rearview Monitor With Dynamic Parking Guidance Parking your Niro Hybrid is a breeze, thanks to the standard rearview monitor with dynamic parking guidance. When you put the car in reverse, the monitor displays a live feed of what's behind your vehicle on the center display. The parking lines on the screen move as you steer, showing you exactly where the car is turning. With the available parking sensors, you'll get an alert if you're getting too close to an object. 5. Day/Night Rearview Mirror There's a standard rearview mirror that lets you switch between day and night modes with a lever. When driving at night, switch to night mode, and the mirror will dim the headlights of cars behind you, helping you see more clearly. The SX trims upgrade to an auto-dimming mirror that automatically detects headlights and dims to reduce glare. Ready to explore the innovative features of the Kia Niro Hybrid? Swing by Gay Family Kia in Dickinson, TX for a test drive!

Introducing the 2025 Kia K5

Say goodbye to boring drives and say hello to the new 2025 Kia K5. With thrilling performance options and easy-to-use tech that keeps you connected and entertained, this midsize sedan makes every moment behind the wheel more fun than ever before. more The five-passenger K5 is made for all kinds of drivers, with four exciting trim levels to fit your lifestyle. The entry-level LXS features cloth seat trim and a dual-zone auto climate control system, while the premium EX comes with SynTex synthetic leather seat trim, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The GT-Line and GT models have stylish interiors with color combinations like Black & White SynTex or Black SynTex with Neon Green stitching. Under the hood, the K5 offers even more customizations. The LXS, GT-Line, and EX trims have a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, averaging up to an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined. Drivers in cold climates will want to consider the GT-Line's available all-wheel drive for more control in slippery conditions. Featuring a sport-tuned suspension and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, the GT trim gives performance enthusiasts 290 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph speed of just 5.4 seconds. New This Year Inside and out, the K5 has a bold, new look with Star Map exterior lighting and new interior displays. Its naturally aspirated standard engine is also new for 2025, giving most trim levels an increase of 11 horsepower. The K5 adds several standard and available driver assistance features this year. Smart Cruise Control, previously an optional feature, comes on every 2025 K5, making highway driving more convenient by automatically maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The Blind View Monitor, which can show a live view of your blind spot when you activate your turn signal, is standard on the EX and optional on the GT for the first time this year. Convenient Technology The K5 provides a generous 15.6 cubic feet of cargo space inside its trunk, and it makes it easy to load and unload the trunk, even when your hands are full. Its Smart Trunk opens automatically when you stand behind it with your Smart Key for 3 seconds. Included at no extra cost for 3 years, Kia Connect takes driving convenience to the next level. With this subscription, you can use the Kia Access App on your smartphone to remotely lock your K5's doors, start the engine, or activate the horn and hazard lights. This service can also send for help automatically if an airbag deploys or assist law enforcement in recovering a stolen vehicle. If you're ready to turn your ordinary drives into something extraordinary, you can't miss the all-new K5. To see it for yourself and take a test drive, visit us at Gay Family Kia in Dickinson, TX.