Revised looks aside, the third-generation Soul now rides upon a brand new platform that promises more in the way of driving refinement. Engine wise there are two four-cylinder motors to choose from: a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre good for 110kW plus a more advanced turbocharged 1.6-litre unit that makes a useful 150kW. While the turbo engine only comes mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the naturally-aspirated motor can be had with either a six-speed manual or CVT.
The interior has been worked over and can be customised with everything from a 640-watt Harman/Kardon sound system to mood lighting equipped with no less than six moods. Bluetooth audio streaming is standard and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. There's also wireless charging and dual-zone climate control. Trim lines? You're looking at six – LX, S, X-Line, GT-Line, EX, “EX Designer Collection” – plus an all-new Soul EV that probably won't be making its way to South Africa anytime soon. Fortunately the petrol-powered models will be landing here in 2019. I look forward to it.