Core Insights - The Kia Soul, a unique urban vehicle, has played a significant role in Kia's transformation and success in the U.S. market, contributing to nearly tripling overall sales during its lifetime [1][3] - The Kia Soul will retire at the end of the 2025 model year, with over 1.5 million units sold in the U.S. since its introduction in 2009 [2][11] - The Soul's design was inspired by the concept of a "boar with a backpack," aiming to combine the efficiency of a small car with the versatility of an SUV [4] Sales and Market Impact - The Soul has been a cornerstone for Kia in establishing its presence in the U.S. automotive market, helping the company achieve record sales and market share [3] - The vehicle's unique marketing campaigns, including the iconic "Ham-stars," significantly contributed to its popularity and brand recognition [5][6] Design and Innovation - The Soul maintained its original concept's spirit throughout its production, with various innovative models and concepts introduced over the years, such as the Soul'ster and Track'ster [6][10] - The introduction of the Soul Turbo in 2017 responded to customer demand for more powerful options, leading to the development of the Kia Seltos, which offers additional features and capabilities [7][8] Awards and Recognition - The Kia Soul has received numerous accolades over the years, including distinctions from Kelley Blue Book, J.D. Power, and IIHS, highlighting its quality, safety, and appeal [12]