Published by Rims & Tires
Compiled & checked by the site's publisher from manufacturer, NHTSA & USTMA data · Updated 2026-07-24
The Kia Soul is a distinctive front-wheel-drive subcompact crossover known for its boxy styling and surprisingly practical interior. Its tire needs center on everyday performance: wet grip, quiet ride, and cost-effective tread life.
Common Kia Soul tire sizes
3rd gen Soul (2020-current): 205/60R16 (LX, S), 215/55R17 (EX), 235/45R18 (GT-Line, Turbo).
2nd gen Soul (2014-2019): 205/60R16 (base), 215/55R17 (Plus), 235/45R18 (Exclaim).
The 205/60R16 and 215/55R17 are the dominant sizes for most Soul owners.
Best tires
Michelin CrossClimate2 in 215/55R17: the best upgrade for Soul owners. 3PMSF all-weather capability, best-in-class wet braking, long tread life — available in the most common Soul size.
Continental PureContact LS: excellent wet performance and fuel efficiency — well-suited to the Soul's economy-focused drivetrain.
Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack: the quietest option — ideal for Soul owners who want to preserve the cabin's relaxed character on long drives.
Michelin Defender2 in 205/60R16: for base-trim Soul owners who want maximum tread life on a budget-focused vehicle.
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Matching Soul tires to how you drive
The Kia Soul is a light front-wheel-drive car, which is good news for your wallet, since it doesn't demand an expensive tire to feel planted. For most Soul owners running errands and commuting around Carroll County, a mid-tier all-season delivers the best mix of quiet ride, wet grip, and tread life. If you want one set that handles our rare icy mornings too, an all-weather tire with the snowflake rating is a small step up worth considering. Skip the rock-bottom bargain tires, since they tend to wear fast and turn noisy. When you're ready, a local shop can match the size on your door jamb to a tire that fits your budget and driving.
Best Tires for Kia Soul at a glance
| Tire | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate2 | 215/55R17 | the best upgrade for Soul owners. 3PMSF all-weather capability, best-in-class wet braking, long tread life — available in the most common Soul size. |
| Continental PureContact LS | Not specified | excellent wet performance and fuel efficiency — well-suited to the Soul's economy-focused drivetrain. |
| Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack | Not specified | the quietest option — ideal for Soul owners who want to preserve the cabin's relaxed character on long drives. |
| Michelin Defender2 | 205/60R16 | for base-trim Soul owners who want maximum tread life on a budget-focused vehicle. |
Frequently asked
How much do Kia Soul tires cost?
205/60R16: $95–130 per tire. 215/55R17: $100–145 per tire. A set of four installed (215/55R17): $400–580.
Are budget tires okay on a Kia Soul?
A mid-tier all-season is the sweet spot — the Soul is a light front-wheel-drive car, so it does not demand a premium tire, but the very cheapest tires often give up wet grip and get noisy quickly. Spend in the middle of the range for the best balance of price, quiet, and safety.
Are budget tires a bad idea on a Kia Soul?
Not at all. The Soul is light and easy on tires, so it doesn't need premium rubber to drive well. The trap is the very cheapest tires, which often give up wet grip and get loud fast. A mid-tier all-season hits the sweet spot of price, quiet, and safety for most Soul owners.
How do I know when my Kia Soul needs new tires?
Check the tread with a quarter. If you can see the top of Washington's head, it's time. Also watch for slipping in the rain, extra road noise, or cracks in the sidewall. Remember that tires age out, so if yours are several years old they can be unsafe even with tread left, and a shop should take a look.
Keep reading
Last updated 2026-07-24. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.