KIA SOUL (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,820 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
2,820
Avg Mileage
78,240 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2012 KIA SOUL reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the KIA brand average of 86%.
At 12 years old, 74% of KIA SOULs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,820 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 78,240 miles.
How does the 2012 KIA SOUL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 KIA SOUL has 78,240 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a KIA SOUL?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2012 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2012 KIA SOUL cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
KIA SOUL by Year
Checking a specific KIA SOUL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 KIA SOUL
The 2012 KIA SOUL is a small family car with a 1591cc petrol engine. 2,820 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 84% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 78,240 miles at 12 years old, KIA SOUL owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 KIA SOUL Fuel Costs
The 1591cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 KIA SOUL?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
KIA SOUL Reliability Trend
Newer KIA SOULs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 KIA SOUL
At 12 years old, the KIA SOUL is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2012 KIA SOUL
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2014) 76% pass rate (+2%) from 141,747 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (+4%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-2%) from 84,989 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (+1%) from 79,721 tests