Already a recipient of numerous accolades including a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, being named to the “Coolest New Cars Under $18,000″ list by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com and “Interior of the Year” list by Ward’s AutoWorld, the all-new 2010 Kia Soul has yet again been honored and given a “2010 Automotive Excellence Award” by Popular Mechanics.

Recognized for its appealing style, fuel efficiency, handling and overall value, Soul is one of only 10 vehicles to be acknowledged on the esteemed list.

“Soul has been a game changer for the Kia brand, bringing new consumers to showrooms with its style, value and personalization options as well as paving the way for vehicles like the Forte, Forte Koup and the all-new Sorento CUV,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA).

“Popular Mechanics is a well-respected publication and to achieve this accolade from them is both a testament to the Kia brand and the all-new Soul urban passenger vehicle.”

To compile the annual list, Popular Mechanics’ automotive department editors test drove, evaluated and rated new cars and trucks to determine which vehicles and technologies were the most significant, singling out the top 10 in the industry.

With a starting price below $14,000(1), Soul is available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport. Kia Motors’ newest five-door offers consumers an immense amount of style and value, equipped with such driver-friendly standard convenience features as an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service(2), and USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod®(3) and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls (achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable). Soul also offers an optional Audio Upgrade Package that includes a center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music to truly enhance the personal lounge atmosphere.

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