The 2010 Kia Soul is presenting a serious threat to the sales levels of fun-to-drive vehicles like the MINI Cooper and the Scion xB. South Korean automaker Kia is targeting the much-coveted younger compact carlike SUV audience with this funky-looking box-shaped representation of practicality, affordability and exciting cruise potential. It's quick and ready - it's sharp and innovative - it's the newest effort from Kia to establish the company as a major contender in the sports utility market - and it is creating quite the buzz!

The front-wheel-driven Kia Soul for 2010 promises excellent fuel economy delivered from its small, but effective 2.0L 140hp 4-cylinder engine and the assistance of the standard 5-speed manual (optional 4-speed auto) transmission. The torque created measures 136 lb-ft. The overall dimensions of this spacey little machine are 159.3L x 64W x 72.8H. That height makes it easy to spot in crowded parking lots as well as making it seem very spacious on the interior. The basal curb weight is 3150 pounds.

The Kia Soul for 2010 features seating for five in two rows. It comes with specific warnings to not engage in rough off-roading maneuvers, but it can handle most terrain scenarios quite adequately. Standard safety features include front, side and curtain airbags for both rows of seating, anti-lock braking, electronic traction control, anti-skid technology and more.

The design concept was born in California for the American Soul releases. Although the exterior styling is basically boxlike, it differentiates itself from similar vehicles with its bulldog-styled nose. It also features fenders that bulge intentionally, high-riding sides, an almost vertical tail end and a top that seems to float on blackened, nearly-invisible pillars.

The 2010 Soul from Kia also caters to the cravings of the young and active with features like its fold-out liftgate complete with a large waterproof pouch for conveniently storing wet clothing, boots and gear. The Soul presents a high features-for-dollar relationship and promises to become a huge hit for the outdoor enthusiasts across the US and other countries. Its official release date for the US is believed to be sometime in April, 2009. The feeble US dollar is creating a price confusion for Kia, but MSRPs are believed to be going to fall within the $16,500 to $18,500 range - about the same as Kia's Rondo, the company's midsized wagon.

Funky and fresh meet practical and versatile in the 2010 Kia Soul. Any way you look at it, this compact SUV promises to excite the senses of the young and adventurous. It's just around the corner too. Keep your eyes open and be ready to test drive it before the floods of other potential buyers arrive!