Kia Unveils Limited Edition Soul Echo Model for the UK
In a clever black and white themed campaign, Kia UK is now offering a new special edition version of the Soul, as well as a special edition version of both the Picanto and Rio small cars. We can’t help but to relate it to Scion’s RS-series releases, where unique paint colors and accessories adorn the vehicle giving it a customized and unique taste from the run-of-the-mill units that leave the lot. And like the numerous Scion versions, this Soul is the latest of four special edition models which include the Burner, Shaker and Samba.
Called the Soul Echo, it will be offered in Clear White or Quartz Black metallic with contrasting features. The white Soul Echo gets black 18-inch wheels and black gloss mirrors with a black stripe kit, while the black Soul Echo gets white detailing. Interior upgrades include black leather and an upgraded audio system with iPod connectivity, along with parking sensors and air conditioning. It retails for around $21,000, but only in the UK.
The Picanto and Rio have a Domino-theme going on with similar white and black exterior colors to choose from with contrasting accents to give it that Domino effect. The Picanto Domino is offered at $12,000 and the Rio Domino is a little shy of $14,000.
We must say that Kia around the world has been doing a fantastic job in marketing their new trendy and affordable platforms to the masses. These customized versions may be taking a page out of Scion’s book, but even the harshest of critics have to admit that the Soul is a great xB contender.
GALLERY: Kia UK Soul Echo, Picanto and Rio Special Editions
The official press release is available after the break.
- Two new black and white themed special editions
- Domino: new to Picanto and Rio – extra equipment with savings of up to £400
- Echo: new luxurious addition to the Soul ‘Originals’ line-up
- On sale now
Picanto Domino & Rio Domino
The Domino special edition is available on Kia’s two practical and stylish five-door superminis –Picanto and Rio. Picanto Domino is available with a 1.1-litre petrol engine, with either a manual or automatic transmission; Rio Domino is available with a 1.4-litre petrol or 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine.
Both Domino models are available in white or optional black metallic. Their body-coloured bumpers, mirrors and door handles can be offset with an optional contrasting black or white ‘domino effect’ stripe. Front fog lights complement the stylish 14-inch alloy wheels (Rio) and 14-inch wheel trims (Picanto) whilst additional reassurance is provided from Electronic Stability Control, which is now fitted as standard across all Picanto and Rio versions.
Inside, both models benefit from air-conditioning, iPod connectivity, remote central locking and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear-knob. Rio Domino adds rear electric windows to the list of standard equipment.
As with every new Kia a seven year warranty comes as standard – Picanto Domino is priced from £7,995 OTR and Rio Domino is priced from £9,295 OTR. These prices represent savings of £400 and £350 respectively over the ‘2’ versions upon which they are based.
Soul Echo
Kia’s stylish urban crossover, Soul, has had a dose of luxury added with the arrival of the new Soul Echo. Echo is the latest bold addition to the Soul ‘Originals’ line-up – a collection of distinctive versions each with their own distinct personality – following on from other ‘Originals’ such as the Burner, Shaker and Samba.
Echo is available in a choice of two striking colours – Clear White or Quartz Black metallic – and both come with contrasting features that make them the mirror image of each other. The white Echo features stylish black 18-inch alloy wheels, black high-gloss door mirrors and a corresponding black sports stripe. The black Echo features white 18″ alloy wheels, white high-gloss door mirrors and a sports stripe in white.
Soul Echo is laden with luxurious features usually associated with more expensive machinery. Inside, a full black leather interior and high-gloss black dashboard fascia continue the external monochrome look whilst an uprated sound system (with subwoofer), Bluetooth and iPod connectivity and reversing sensors ensure the Echo has plenty to keep everyone on board satisfied at all times. Air conditioning and privacy glass keep passengers and their belongings cool and shielded from prying eyes.
On the move, Soul Echo is powered by a choice of 1.6-litre petrol or 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engines and its occupants are protected by a host of safety features including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TC) and a five-star Euro NCAP rating. The Soul Echo is available from just £13,995 OTR.
Soul Echo also benefits from some minor revisions being made to the entire Soul line-up: A trip computer, Emergency Stop Signal (which flashes the hazard warning lights under heavy braking), ‘pull’ style exterior door handles and illuminated electric window buttons are now standard on all Soul versions. Bluetooth connectivity is standard from the ‘2’ version and above. Finally, Soul Shaker, previously only available in Vanilla, is now available in Chocolate Brown metallic and comes with fully colour-coded bumpers.
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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