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2012 Kia Soul arrived with a number of well-known upgrades, including a more powerful and fuel-efficient engines, new six-speed transmission and a revised steering. The styling has been updated inside and out, and there are several new technology options.

There are many adjectives that we can use to describe the 2012 Kia Soul, but "boring" is not one of them. In fact, this unique compact hatchback will look more attractive this year, with a number of upgrades that starts with fresh exterior styling. General look remains, but no new details like flashy LED running lights on! Model. Yes, weird "!" and "+" trim level living.

The interior gets the same updates fine, most of which support the already impressive lineup of Soul features available. The steering wheel now telescopes, the material is a little better, the optional seat heaters get additional settings and navigation systems offered for the first time. As always, these items benefit from Kias user-friendly controls.

More important is the Soul of mechanical upgrades, including direct injection 1.6-liter engine that is both more powerful and more fuel efficient. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder has also been given a 22-horsepower shot in the arm, and both engines benefit from a new six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

The result is fuel economy better, although it still falls short of some other compact hatchback. However, a new Eco package available on automatic models equipped should help save fuel, which features stop-start technology that automatically shuts down the engine when you come to a red light and restarts as soon as you lift your foot from the (now much faster and more convincing) brake pedal. Another change concerns the steering, which is now electrically assisted.

2012 Kia Soul blend of style and practicality - not to mention an affordable price tag, a long list of standard features and available and 10-year/100 ,000-mile powertrain warranty - making it one of our top choices. Only if the cargo capacity is a top priority that we would recommend checking out the Scion xB. And if fuel economy or handling are at the top of your list, there are a number of other small hatchback at prices that might work better, including the Chevy Sonic and Ford Fiesta. The Nissan Juke is also similarly sized, priced and equipped if you consider one of the pricier Souls. But for a car that is both funky and practical, does not get much better than Soul.