Looks gorgeous! However, like the boxy Scion, the intended demographic, and the actual demographic of the Soul, like the Scion, have been quite different...
The Kia Soul isn't really known for being the sportiest car in the lineup, but that didn't stop the Korean car maker from trying to make something track-worthy out the divisive hatchback with the 2012 Soul Track'ster concept. (Before you ask, yes, that really is how it is written in the press materials.)
Debuting at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, the Track'ster made do with 250 horsepower, all-wheel drive and two fewer doors than the production model.
Meaty 19-inch HRE wheels also sat on each corner and covered large-diameter ventilated Brembo disc brakes.
Interior-wise, the rear seats were removed in favor of a "fully integrated equipment tray and spare-tire well," and a genuine six-speed manual transmission was fitted.
Of course, Kia noted that "there are no current plans to produce the Track'ster," but should the Soul get a hot(ter) hatch version, or is it better off as a tall, funky hatchback?
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Looks gorgeous! However, like the boxy Scion, the intended demographic, and the actual demographic of the Soul, like the Scion, have been quite different...
Would totally drive it.
That's cool
2 more doors please
My brother has an early Soul--all black and with a manual box.
2012 Soul Trackster, didn't happen.
2013 Juke Nismo, DID happen. But a lot of people still don't care.
Combine the widebody look of this concept with a tweeked Genesis Coupe drivetrain (RWD) and you would have a great little track monster.
Clio turbo rear flares would look nice on it as well
It is so much wider than a soul that it transforms into a hothatch except that is has old school amounts of glass and outward visibility. 250 hp awd useful daily it is winner in my brain.
Having driven a 1st gen Soul a lot, I would say no way. But, having driven the new Soul Turbo, I would say hell yeah. Not something I would try to autocross or track, but I am all for practical vehicles that haul A$$.
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