The Kia Soul certainly didn't need a refresh. With more than 10,000 units flying out of showrooms each month and a growing list of awards and accolades under its belt, the Korean automaker's boxiest compact is a success story regardless of the angle. Berlin City Kia, your Gorham Kia dealer, will be the premier dealership to purchase your new 2012 Soul.

Yet, after just two model years, Kia has invested significantly in its little four-door. Emerging at the 2011 New York Auto Show earlier this year was this considerably updated 2012 Soul sporting a freshened look, innovative new technology and two new powertrains.

Interior and exterior improvements aside, the biggest news for the 2012 Kia Soul is purely mechanical. As was the case last year, the Soul will be again offered with two different inline four-cylinder engines and a choice between manual and automatic transmissions. However, both engines - and both transmissions - have been replaced with newer, more powerful and more fuel-efficient units.

Last year's Kia Soul was liked by most, but often criticized for its ride quality and cabin noise. Kia has listened. The significantly updated 2012 model delivers the ride and NVH improvements that its predecessor was lacking plus a thoroughly revised powertrain enhancing both drivability and fuel economy. Add in the standard 10 year/100,000-mile warranty, a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and enough electrical innovation to keep even the most tech-savvy consumer interested and the Soul shouldn't just be a contender in this boxy compact segment... it should be considered one of the top finalists.

Visit our Kia New Hampshire dealership located outside of Gorham in New Hampshire.