Is a 2012 Kia Soul good on gas?
Emma Johnson
Updated on February 28, 2026
EPA mileage estimates for the 1.6-liter engine are 25 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined regardless of transmission choice.
Does Kia Soul have good gas mileage?
The Soul carries an EPA rating as high as 35 mpg for highway driving and as low as 27 mpg in the city—not bad for a seemingly nonaerodynamic box on wheels. The Nissan Kicks and the Hyundai Venue—its key rivals—offer similar highway numbers, but both outshine the Kia in the city, achieving 31 and 30 mpg, respectively.
Why is my Kia Soul getting bad gas mileage?
The fuel pump can become clogged or malfunction. A bad fuel pump can lead to a rough running engine because it is not getting enough fuel. This will lead to a decline in gas mileage. If this issue is not addressed it will lead to a rough, idle, sputtering and stalling.
How big is the gas tank on a 2012 Kia Soul?
12.7 gal.
Used 2012 Kia Soul Specs & Features
| Fuel & MPG | |
|---|---|
| EPA mileage est. (cty/hwy) | 23/28 mpg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 12.7 gal. |
| Fuel type | Regular unleaded |
| Range in miles (cty/hwy) | 292.1/355.6 mi. |
How long will my Kia Soul last?
The Kia Soul can last up to 200,000 miles. Based on an annual average of 15,000 miles, your Kia Soul will last for 13 years. If you drive above average, you can get ten years from your Soul.
How can I get better gas mileage in my Kia Soul?
Here are a few tips and tricks that you can follow to get the best possible fuel economy out of your Kia vehicle:
- Drive slower on the highway. 60 mph saves 2-4 mpg compared to 70 mph.
- Avoid quick acceleration and braking.
- Do not let your car idle.
- Drive with the windows up and use the A/C sparingly.
How can I make my Kia Soul more fuel efficient?
How much gas can a Kia Soul hold?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 2018 Kia Soul | |
|---|---|
| Annual Fuel Cost* | $1,900 |
| Cost to Drive 25 Miles | $3.16 |
| Cost to Fill the Tank | $48 |
| Tank Size | 14.2 gallons |
Are there any recalls on 2012 Kia Soul?
2012 Kia Soul Recalls Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.
What is the average MPG of a Kia Soul?
There are three available trims on the 2018 Kia Soul. The base, four-door hatchback averages an EPA-estimated 27 MPG (combined, city/highway), and up to 30 MPG on the highway.
What type of gas does a Kia Soul use?
Kia Soul: Fuel requirements. Your new vehicle is designed to use only unleaded fuel having a pump octane number ((R+M)/2) of 87 (Research Octane Number 91) or higher. Your new vehicle is designed to obtain maximum performance with UNLEADED FUEL, as well as minimize exhaust emissions and spark plug fouling.
What is the gas mileage of a Kia?
Our Kia Niro Touring model carries an EPA fuel-economy rating of 46 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, 43 mpg combined.
