Kia Soul CRDi SMART – slide into gear with dual-clutch

POLOKWANE – Kia’s all-new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which made its global debut at the 85th Salon International de l’Automobile in Geneva in March this year, is now available in the range-topping KIA Soul 1.6 CRDi SMART.

The new DCT is capable of handling larger torque outputs than KIA’s existing six-speed torque converter automatic transmission (up to 300 Nm), while the faster gear changes, lower emissions and higher fuel economy is set to significantly enhance the already dynamic persona of the sporty-looking Soul.

The DCT is made up of two dry clutches, each fitted with electric motor-driven clutch actuator to improve responsiveness, and an innovative hollow double-gear input shaft. The hollow shaft itself allows the system to quickly engage even gears, while a solid shaft that runs through the middle operates odd gears.

This crossed gear shifting enables continuous power delivery and more efficient packaging, two development cornerstones for the engineering teams behind the project.

The continuous power delivery of the DCT minimises the loss of torque and forward motion by the powertrain during gearshifts, resulting in more decisive acceleration and a smoother drive.

Reduction of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) has also been a focus for the team behind the DCT’s development, with an external damper ensuring a higher level of refinement for the new transmission.

After its launch in November 2014, Kia’s new Soul has proven itself as a fun, practical and entertainingly agile competitor to an increasing number of B-segment crossovers. Combining the compact dimensions of a crossover with the functionality and practicality of a multi-purpose vehicle, the Soul’s innovative packaging endows it with a unique and high quality, award-winning proposition for those with an active, urban lifestyle.

Thanks to the inclusion of Kia’s new seven-speed DCT, the range-topping Soul 1.6 CRDi SMART also features a notably upgraded powertrain.

Maximum power increases from 94 kW to 100 kW at 4 000 rpm. In addition, maximum torque output also increases from 260 Nm to 300 Nm, still available between 1900 and 2750rpm.

There are also gains in the acceleration and top speed, the former improving 12,2 seconds to 11,1 seconds, and the latter from 182 km/h to 188 km/h.

The lightweight U2 turbodiesel engine is manufactured with cast aluminium cylinder blocks and aluminium cylinder heads, and feature an offset crankshaft (to reduce friction), a low-noise timing chain, mechanical lash adjustment and variable intake valve timing.

The combination endows the Soul 1.6 CRDi SMART with a highly competitive combination of power, performance, fuel economy and modest emissions.

As with all Kia models offered in South Africa, the new Kia Soul 1.6 CRDi SMART DCT ships as standard with Kia’s standard five-year or 150 000 km warranty and three years unlimited roadside assistance.

Also included as standard is a four-year or 90 000 km service plan. The new Kia Soul 1.6 CRDi SMART DCT retails for R399 995.