The Kia Soul is a compact five-door, five-passenger hatchback manufactured and marketed by Kia from 2009 to 2025, sold globally across three distinct generations. It was produced exclusively with front-wheel drive in all configurations and model years.
This guide covers Kia Soul towing specifications by model year, including maximum trailer weight ratings, payload capacity, and drivetrain details. Kia does not assign an official towing rating to the Soul in the North American market; however, certified towing ratings were published for select international markets including Australia, the United Kingdom, and parts of Europe. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits is essential for protecting the engine, transmission, braking system, and suspension from structural overload.
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2025 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2025 model year marked the final production year for the Kia Soul, with Kia announcing the end of Soul production in October 2025. This year retained the same third-generation platform and 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle powertrain introduced in 2020.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Nu MPi Inline-4 (147 hp, 132 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 515 kg (1,135 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 1,825 kg (4,023 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2025 Kia Soul carries an international braked trailer weight limit of 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) in markets where towing is officially sanctioned. In North America, Kia does not provide a towing specification for this vehicle, and the owner’s manual does not recommend towing. Staying within rated limits is critical for maintaining braking effectiveness and drivetrain reliability during trailer operations.
2024 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2024 Kia Soul continued under the facelifted third-generation platform introduced for model year 2023. The 2.0L naturally aspirated engine with CVT transmission was the sole powertrain available in the US market following the discontinuation of the turbo engine in 2023.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Nu MPi Inline-4 (147 hp, 132 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 515 kg (1,135 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 1,825 kg (4,023 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2024 Kia Soul has a confirmed maximum payload capacity of 1,135 lbs (515 kg) and a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,023 lbs (1,825 kg) in the North American market. International-market braked towing is rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) where applicable. No trailer weight rating appears in official North American documentation from Kia for this model year.
2023 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2023 model year introduced a mid-cycle facelift for the third-generation Soul, featuring revised headlights, taillights, and front and rear fascia. The 2023 model also discontinued the turbocharged 1.6T engine in the North American market, leaving the 2.0L naturally aspirated CVT as the only available configuration.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Nu MPi Inline-4 (147 hp, 132 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 515 kg (1,135 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Approx. 1,825 kg (4,023 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2023 Kia Soul carries an international braked towing capacity of 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) for the 2.0-liter automatic configuration. No official towing data is published for North American models, consistent with previous model years. Payload and GVWR figures are consistent with the broader third-generation platform specifications.
2022 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
For the 2022 model year, Kia discontinued the 6-speed manual transmission in the United States, leaving only the CVT-equipped 2.0L as the standard North American powertrain. The turbocharged 1.6T with 7-speed DCT remained available through this model year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Nu MPi I4 (147 hp, 132 lb-ft); 1.6L T-GDi Turbo I4 (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 515 kg (1,135 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Approx. 1,825 kg (4,023 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2022 Kia Soul offered two engine configurations in its final year with dual powertrain availability in the US market. International-market towing limits remained at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) braked for both the naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants equipped with automatic transmissions. North American documentation from Kia does not include a towing capacity rating for this model year.
2021 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2021 model year continued the third-generation platform with the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine and the optional 1.6T turbocharged engine. The new Kia logo was introduced on the Soul for this year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Nu MPi I4 (147 hp, 132 lb-ft); 1.6L T-GDi Turbo I4 (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 515 kg (1,135 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Approx. 1,825 kg (4,023 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2021 Kia Soul in international markets carries a braked towing capacity of 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) for automatic transmission variants with the 2.0-liter engine. Owner manual guidance in the US market specifies that towing is not recommended for this vehicle. Exceeding the unladen tongue weight limit creates instability in braking and steering response.
2020 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2020 model year launched the all-new third-generation Soul on the SK3 platform, shared with the Hyundai Kona. It replaced the 1.6L base engine with a new 2.0L Atkinson-cycle unit paired to a CVT, while retaining the turbocharged 1.6T for higher trims.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Nu MPi I4 (147 hp, 132 lb-ft); 1.6L T-GDi Turbo I4 (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 515 kg (1,135 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Approx. 1,825 kg (4,023 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2020 Kia Soul marked a full platform change to the third generation, bringing revised suspension geometry and an updated chassis structure. Australian market models with the 2.0L automatic are rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) braked and 550 kg (1,213 lbs) unbraked. No towing specification is published by Kia for North American models of this generation.
2019 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2019 model year was the final year of the second-generation Soul in the US market before the complete redesign arrived for 2020. It retained the second-generation PS platform with 1.6L GDi and 2.0L GDi engine options, alongside the turbocharged 1.6T.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma II GDi I4 (130 hp, 118 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu GDi I4 (164 hp, 151 lb-ft); 1.6L T-GDi Turbo I4 (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Auto/DCT) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 500 kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A (Not published for North America) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,300 kg) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,100 kg) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
In UK and Australian markets, the 2019 Kia Soul with a manual transmission is rated to tow up to 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) with a braked trailer. Automatic and DCT-equipped variants in those markets are rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) braked. North American Kia documentation for this year does not include a trailer weight limit.
2018 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2018 Kia Soul continued under the second-generation facelifted platform introduced for the 2017 model year. The engine lineup was unchanged from 2017, with the turbocharged 1.6T available on the Exclaim trim level.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma II GDi I4 (130 hp, 118 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu GDi I4 (164 hp, 151 lb-ft); 1.6L T-GDi Turbo I4 (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Auto/DCT) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 500 kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A (Not published for North America) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,300 kg) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,100 kg) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2018 Kia Soul in international markets maintains a braked towing limit of up to 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) on manual transmission petrol and diesel variants. The 1.6T DCT variant is rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) in international markets. Towing specifications are not published for this model year in the North American market.
2017 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2017 model year introduced a facelift for the second-generation Soul, including minor exterior revisions and the addition of the turbocharged 1.6T GDi engine at the top trim level, replacing the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine on the Exclaim variant. The 1.6T is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma II GDi I4 (130 hp, 118 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu GDi I4 (164 hp, 151 lb-ft); 1.6L T-GDi Turbo I4 (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Auto/DCT) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 500 kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A (Not published for North America) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,300 kg) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,100 kg) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2017 Kia Soul introduced the highest-output engine of the second generation with the 1.6T GDi producing 201 hp. In UK markets, the turbocharged Sport variant with DCT carries a braked trailer weight limit of 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs). Kia does not publish a towing specification for North American 2017 Soul models.
2016 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2016 model year continued the pre-facelift second-generation platform with the 1.6L GDi and 2.0L GDi as the primary North American engine options. Australian-market variants used the 2.0L petrol with a 6-speed automatic.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma II GDi I4 (130 hp, 118 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu GDi I4 (164 hp, 151 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Automatic) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 500 kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A (Not published for North America) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,300 kg) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,100 kg) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2016 Kia Soul with the 2.0L automatic in international markets is rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) for braked towing. Manual transmission variants with the 1.6L GDi petrol or diesel engine in UK-spec configuration carry a higher braked rating of 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs). The North American owner’s manual does not include a towing capacity specification for this model year.
2015 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2015 model year was the second year of the second-generation Soul in the US market. It also marked the US introduction of the Kia Soul EV, the battery-electric variant, which carries no towing rating in any market.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma II GDi I4 (130 hp, 118 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu GDi I4 (164 hp, 151 lb-ft); Electric motor 81 kW / 109 hp (Soul EV) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual Petrol/Diesel) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Automatic) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Soul EV – All Markets) | Not rated / N/A |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 500 kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A (Not published for North America) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110-130 kg (242-286 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2015 Kia Soul EV is not rated for towing in any global market, with its official documentation listing N/A for both braked and unbraked trailer weight limits. International gasoline and diesel variants of the 2015 Soul carry a maximum braked towing capacity of 1,100 to 1,300 kg depending on transmission type. No towing specification is issued by Kia for North American 2015 Soul models.
2014 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2014 model year launched the second-generation Soul on the PS platform, featuring a larger interior, a redesigned chassis with 28.7 percent greater torsional rigidity, and new GDi engines. The US model went on sale with 1.6L and 2.0L options paired to 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma II GDi I4 (130 hp, 118 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu GDi I4 (164 hp, 151 lb-ft); 1.6L CRDi Diesel I4 (128 hp, 192 lb-ft) – select markets |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual Petrol/Diesel) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Automatic) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 500 kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A (Not published for North America) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, Manual) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, Automatic) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
In Australian and UK markets, the 2014 Kia Soul with the 2.0L petrol and 6-speed automatic is rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) braked. The 1.6L GDi manual and 1.6L CRDi diesel manual variants in European-spec configurations carry a 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) braked limit. In the North American market, the 2014 Soul is listed as “not recommended for towing” in owner’s manual documentation.
2013 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2013 model year was the final year of the first-generation Soul in the US market. It received minor exterior updates including LED tail lights, revised grille, and a bulged hood, along with Bluetooth becoming standard across the lineup.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma GDi I4 (138 hp, 123 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu MPI I4 (164 hp, 148 lb-ft); 1.6L CRDi Diesel I4 (128 hp, 192 lb-ft) – select markets |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual Petrol/Diesel) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Automatic Diesel) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, Manual) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, Automatic Diesel) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
In international markets, the 2013 Kia Soul with the 1.6L CRDi diesel and 6-speed manual carries a braked towing capacity of 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs). The diesel automatic variant in those markets is rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) braked. No towing specification applies to the North American first-generation Soul in this model year.
2012 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2012 model year introduced significant updates to the first-generation Soul, including new 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions replacing the previous 5-speed units, and a revised 2.0L Nu engine replacing the older Beta unit. The 1.6L Gamma received a new GDi fuel injection system in select markets.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma GDi I4 (138 hp, 123 lb-ft); 2.0L Nu MPI I4 (164 hp, 148 lb-ft); 1.6L U2 CRDi Diesel I4 (128 hp, 192 lb-ft) – select markets |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Automatic) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked, GDi) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International) | 110-130 kg (242-286 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2012 Kia Soul with the 1.6L GDi petrol manual in UK-spec markets is rated at 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) braked and 550 kg (1,213 lbs) unbraked. The upgraded 6-speed transmissions introduced this year apply across petrol and diesel variants in international markets. No towing specification is listed in North American documentation for the 2012 Soul.
2011 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2011 model year updated the first-generation Soul with revised pull-out door handles, a redesigned instrument cluster, and optional Smart Key on the top trim level. North American powertrain options remained the 1.6L MPI and 2.0L Beta II paired to 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma MPI I4 (122 hp, 115 lb-ft); 2.0L Beta II I4 (142 hp, 137 lb-ft); 1.6L U CRDi Diesel I4 (126 hp, 192 lb-ft) – select markets |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual Petrol/Diesel) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Automatic Diesel) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, Manual) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, Auto Diesel) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
In UK-market configuration, the 2011 Kia Soul 1.6 CRDi diesel with a manual transmission is rated at 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) braked. Australian market 2011 models are rated at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) braked under Australian national towing standards. No towing capacity data is published for the North American 2011 Soul.
2010 Kia Soul Towing Capacity
The 2010 model year was the first full sales year for the Kia Soul in the North American market, following its initial launch in late 2009. The North American configuration used a 1.6L Gamma MPI or 2.0L Beta II I4 with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.6L Gamma MPI I4 (122 hp, 115 lb-ft); 2.0L Beta II I4 (142 hp, 137 lb-ft); 1.6L U CRDi Diesel I4 (126 hp, 192 lb-ft) – select markets |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (North America) | Not officially rated by Kia |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual Petrol) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Manual Diesel) | 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Braked, Automatic Diesel) | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked, Petrol 1.6L) | 450 kg (992 lbs) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Intl. – Unbraked, Diesel) | 550 kg (1,213 lbs) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | N/A |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,300 kg) | 130 kg (286 lbs) |
| Tongue Weight Limit (International, 1,100 kg) | 110 kg (242 lbs) |
| Hitch Class (North America) | Not applicable |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available in North America |
The 2010 Kia Soul in UK and European markets carries a braked towing capacity of up to 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) for manual petrol and diesel configurations. The 1.6L petrol first-generation models in UK specification carry an unbraked limit of 450 kg (992 lbs). In the Australian market, the braked towing limit for 2010 models is listed at up to 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs).
Towing Equipment and Setup
Before towing with any vehicle that carries a trailer weight rating, proper equipment selection and installation directly impact braking control, trailer sway resistance, and overall towing stability.
Hitch and Tow Package
A factory tow package, where available, typically includes a wiring harness, receiver hitch, and transmission cooler as integrated components. Aftermarket Class I or Class II receiver hitches are available for the Kia Soul in markets where towing is permitted, suited to the trailer weight limits documented in international specifications. Selecting a hitch rated at or above the maximum tongue weight limit is a minimum requirement before any towing operation.
Trailer Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller synchronizes the tow vehicle’s braking system with the trailer’s independent brakes. For trailer weights approaching the maximum braked capacity limit of 1,100 kg to 1,300 kg in international markets, a proportional brake controller provides more precise modulation during deceleration. Unbraked trailer weight limits are significantly lower, at 450 to 550 kg, reflecting the reduced stopping capability without independent trailer brakes.
Weight Distribution and Tire Load Ratings
| Setup Factor | Standard Towing | Near-Maximum Towing |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch type | Fixed-tongue or ball mount | Weight-distributing hitch recommended |
| Trailer brakes | Not required (unbraked limit) | Required (braked limit) |
| Tongue weight placement | 10-15% of trailer weight on hitch | Maintain 10-15% with WD hitch |
| Tire inflation | Standard manufacturer pressure | Verify maximum load rating per tire |
| Transmission cooling | Ambient adequate for light loads | Transmission cooler recommended |
| Trailer sway control | Optional for light trailers | Required for loads near rated limit |
Tire load ratings must support the combined vehicle and tongue weight without exceeding the sidewall rating. Trailer sway control, either as part of the vehicle’s electronic stability program or as a standalone aftermarket device, reduces lateral instability when towing near the rated limit. Transmission coolers protect the drivetrain during extended towing on grades or in high ambient temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Kia Soul?
In North America, Kia does not publish an official towing capacity for the Soul across any model year, and owner’s manual documentation for US-market models states towing is not recommended. In international markets including Australia and the United Kingdom, the maximum braked towing capacity for petrol and diesel manual transmission variants is 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs), and for automatic transmission variants it is 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs). These figures apply to the first and second-generation models sold in those markets.
How much can a Kia Soul tow with a tow package?
Kia does not offer a factory tow package for the Soul in the North American market, and no trailer weight rating is issued alongside any available hitch accessory for US-specification vehicles. In international markets, approved tow ball assemblies allow braked trailer weights up to 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) for qualifying manual transmission variants. The low nose weight rating of 110 to 130 kg limits the type of trailer that can be safely connected in those markets.
Does the Kia Soul EV have a towing capacity?
The Kia Soul EV carries no towing rating in any global market. Official Kia documentation for UK-market Soul EV models lists N/A for both maximum braked trailer weight and maximum tow ball weight. This applies to all Soul EV model years from 2015 through the final year of production.
What trailer weight is safe for a Kia Soul in international markets?
In certified international markets, a braked trailer up to 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) is within the manufacturer-rated limit for automatic transmission petrol variants, and up to 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) for qualifying manual transmission variants. Unbraked trailers must not exceed 450 to 550 kg (992 to 1,213 lbs) depending on the variant. Exceeding these limits creates risk of brake failure and loss of directional control on grades.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Kia Soul?
The maximum braked towing capacity for Kia Soul international-market variants does not typically require a weight-distributing hitch, given that the rated limit falls within Class I and Class II hitch territory. However, any trailer combination that places tongue weight beyond the manufacturer’s stated nose weight limit of 110 to 130 kg requires load redistribution to maintain steering and braking control. Consulting the vehicle-specific towing supplement for the target market is necessary before selecting hitch equipment.
Why is the Kia Soul not rated for towing in North America?
Kia has not certified the Soul’s drivetrain, cooling system, or hitch mounting points to meet North American trailer towing standards, and the owner’s manual for all North American model years states that towing is not recommended. The vehicle’s front-wheel-drive layout, compact platform, and unibody construction are primary factors in the manufacturer’s decision not to issue a North American trailer weight rating. In international markets, the same or similar vehicle configurations were independently certified under local standards, which resulted in limited braked towing ratings being published.
Conclusion
The Kia Soul was produced from 2009 to 2025 across three generations, with front-wheel drive as the exclusive drivetrain in all configurations and markets. In the North American market, Kia does not assign a towing capacity to the Soul for any model year, and the owner’s manual advises against towing. In international markets such as Australia and the United Kingdom, braked towing capacities range from 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) for automatic transmission variants to 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) for manual transmission petrol and diesel variants. The 2024 North American Soul carries a confirmed maximum payload capacity of 1,135 lbs (515 kg) and a GVWR of 4,023 lbs (1,825 kg), which defines the upper limit for vehicle loading regardless of towing application. Engine configuration, transmission type, and market of sale are the primary variables that determine whether any trailer weight limit applies to a specific vehicle. Always verify specifications using the official owner’s manual or manufacturer’s published data for your specific market and model year before towing any load.
