All trim levels for the 2022 Kia Soul have 6.7-inch ground clearance. Previous generations have shorter ground clearance, sitting between 5.9 and 6.5 inches.

While the Kia Soul has some moderate ground clearance, it’s not meant for serious

off-roading

. Ground clearance is important when it comes to driving on bumpy terrain, but factors such as engine performance, tires, torque, and the weight of the vehicle also comes into play.

Here's everything you need to know about the Kia Soul ground clearance!

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2022 Kia Soul ground clearance

The 2022 Kia Soul comes in six trim levels with varying features and starting costs. The trim levels include the

, X-Line, S,

GT-Line

, and Turbo, and each of them has a ground clearance of 6.7 inches.

Kia Soul ground clearance over the years

As the Kia Soul has evolved over the years, so has the ground clearance. The changes haven’t been drastic, but the newest versions do offer the highest clearance.

Here are the differences in clearance between each generation:

1st generation (2010-2013): 6.5 inches

2nd generation (2014-2019): 5.9 inches

3rd generation (2020-2022): 6.7 inches

A change in suspension type might be to blame for the loss of height from the first generation to the second—but in 2020, the Kia Soul was able to regain some height with the new and improved model. There are many trim levels offered for each year but ground clearance remains the same within a generation.

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What is ground clearance—and why does it matter?

A vehicle’s ground clearance is the amount of space that exists between your car and the ground. It is important to know if you plan to take your Kia Soul off-roading or on a road with varying terrain.

If you have higher ground clearance, you’ll be more able to drive along rough and bumpy roads without ruining the undercarriage of your vehicle.

If you want to go off-roading, you’ll want to have at least an 8.5-inch ground clearance—and unfortunately, all trim levels for the Kia Soul come up short. If you’re stuck in a situation where you have to get through some rough terrain with your Kia Soul, go slow and be very cautious—otherwise, avoid it!

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Is the Kia Soul a good off-road vehicle?

With a maximum ground clearance of 6.7 inches, the Kia Soul is not a top pick when it comes to off-roading SUVs. This vehicle is mostly meant for city driving and roads with very low terrain.

When it comes to off-roading vehicles, there are some other factors aside from ground clearance that can help increase the ability to drive over terrain:

Vehicle tires

Underbody protection

Weight

Torque

Making some upgrades to your vehicle can help but overall, the Kia Soul is not meant for serious off-road adventuring.

If you’re looking for a vehicle that will allow you to cruise through bumpy terrain check out the

Kia Telluride

. With a starting cost of $33,090, you’ll get an 8.0-inch ground clearance and a 3.8L V6 engine.

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Kia Soul towing capacity

Guard against accidents with the best Kia Soul insurance

Whether you’re taking your Kia Soul to the back trails or just making the commute to work, you’ll want to protect your vehicle with the right car insurance plan.

Jerry

, the

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