Kia’s confusing hamster ad has left us a clue at the end of the video, announcing a turbocharged variant of the Soul.
The second generation subcompact crossover, inspired from the Track’ster concept, has been with us since 2013, and although it offers four distinctive powertrains (gas, diesel, and electric), the most powerful one develops 162 HP and 201 Nm (148 ft-lb) of torque from two liters of displacement.
So, what the model needs more than anything is a little more pep to go with the “soul”, with Kia addressing the affair this winter – according to the final seconds of the ad, which mentions a turbo variant of the quirky Soul and a (not very precise) deadline.
It isn’t known what will power the upcoming vehicle, but the company does have a 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged mill laying around. The engine, currently used in the Optima, Forte, and Koup, is good for chugging out 201 HP, and it was developed together with Hyundai. Moreover, it could be mated to a six-speed manual as well as to a dual clutch automatic transmission.
To cope with the potential uprated power figure, the Soul could also sport revised suspension settings and bigger brakes, but we’ll probably see more of the dancing “Hamstars” (and clues) until then.
H/T to Car and Driver!