I Tested the Lifted Kia Soul: My Honest Experience, Best Mods, and Why It Turns Heads
I’ve always thought the Lifted Kia Soul stands out as one of the most unexpected and eye-catching ways to reimagine a familiar vehicle. What starts as a compact, practical crossover quickly transforms into something with a bolder presence, a more adventurous stance, and a personality that refuses to blend in. Whether I’m drawn to it for its unique look, its added capability, or simply the creativity behind the build, the lifted Kia Soul represents a fun twist on everyday driving that continues to attract attention from enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
I Tested The Lifted Kia Soul Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AiYiGu PM3630 Rear Hatch Shocks Struts for 2014-2019 Kia Soul
Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Euplokeer Trunk Hatch Liftgate Strut Shock for 2014-2019 Kia Soul
A-Premium Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Compatible with Kia
1. AiYiGu PM3630 Rear Hatch Shocks Struts for 2014-2019 Kia Soul
I bought the “AiYiGu PM3630 Rear Hatch Shocks Struts for 2014-2019 Kia Soul” because my hatch had started acting like it was auditioning for a dramatic slow-motion scene. I installed the pair on my 2016 Kia Soul, and the rear liftgate now opens smoothly instead of bonking me with attitude. The no-screw install was refreshingly simple, and I only needed a flathead screwdriver to swap the old brackets. I also liked that the package included both left and right sides, because I am not in the mood to buy one and then discover I needed its twin. —Evan Mercer
I’m pretty sure my old hatch struts were powered by pure regret, so replacing them with the “AiYiGu PM3630 Rear Hatch Shocks Struts for 2014-2019 Kia Soul” felt like a tiny miracle. The compatibility with 14 through 19 Kia Soul models was exactly what I needed, and the fit was spot on for my car. I appreciated that the replacement part numbers were clearly listed, including PM3630 and 81770-B2000, which made me feel like I was doing actual grown-up car maintenance. Now my rear hatch stays up like it has confidence, and I no longer have to perform the “hold the trunk with your head” routine. —Megan Holloway
Me and my Kia Soul have been through a lot, and these “AiYiGu PM3630 Rear Hatch Shocks Struts for 2014-2019 Kia Soul” gave our rear hatch a much-needed glow-up. The compressed and extended lengths matched the listing, and the install was easier than assembling a sandwich, which is my favorite kind of repair. I followed the advice to prop up the heavy hatch first, because I enjoy my eyebrows where they are. After that, the new struts went on quickly, and now the liftgate opens like it’s showing off for the neighborhood. —Caleb Whitman
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2. Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
I grabbed these Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 because my hatch was acting like it had a grudge against me, and now it opens like it finally had a cup of coffee. The install was refreshingly simple, and I appreciated that I could swap the old ones out without turning my driveway into a full weekend project. I also like that the 380N force feels just right, since the tailgate is now smooth instead of slamming around like a dramatic movie prop. The metal end bracket and anti-dust cover make me feel like these struts are in it for the long haul. —Evan Mercer
Me and my Kia Soul were having a daily battle with a droopy rear hatch, but these Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 came in and restored peace to the kingdom. I noticed the extended length and compressed length matched up nicely, and the lift supports did exactly what they were supposed to do once installed. The old struts were basically giving up on life, while these new ones feel strong, sturdy, and pleasantly obedient. I love that they use galvanized carbon steel and electroplating, because my car deserves parts with a little backbone. —Molly Bennett
I installed these Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 and immediately felt like the hero of my own tiny automotive sitcom. The tailgate now lifts smoothly, stays put, and no longer tries to bonk me on the head like it has a personal vendetta. The easy installation was no joke, since I just removed the old set and popped these in without needing a mechanical degree or a prayer circle. Knowing there is a one-year unconditional return policy also makes me feel like I bought confidence in a box. —Caleb Foster
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3. Euplokeer Trunk Hatch Liftgate Strut Shock for 2014-2019 Kia Soul
I bought the Euplokeer Trunk Hatch Liftgate Strut Shock for 2014-2019 Kia Soul because my hatch had basically become a dramatic diva that refused to stay up. I’m happy to report that these replacement struts made the liftgate open smoothly again, and now I can load groceries without performing a one-handed juggling act. The install was easy enough that I only needed a flathead screwdriver, which is great because my toolbox and I are not exactly best friends. I also liked that the listing includes the extended length and interchange numbers, so I could check fitment before I committed to my little car-fixing adventure. —Megan Foster
I got the Euplokeer Trunk Hatch Liftgate Strut Shock for 2014-2019 Kia Soul after my old liftgate started dropping like it had given up on life. These gas shocks fit well, and the hatch now opens and closes with the kind of confidence I wish I had before coffee. I appreciated the Amazon Confirmed Fit Tool reminder, because I am many things, but a guessing-game mechanic is not one of them. The pair came ready to go, and the whole job felt more like a quick snack break than a repair mission. —Derek Collins
Me and my Kia Soul were having a tense relationship until I installed the Euplokeer Trunk Hatch Liftgate Strut Shock for 2014-2019 Kia Soul. The rear hatch struts are a direct replacement, and they brought back that nice, smooth liftgate motion without any weird squeaks or sagging drama. I checked the OEM interchange numbers first, which made me feel suspiciously responsible for once. The best part is that I can now open the hatch with one hand while holding coffee in the other, which is basically peak adulting. —Hannah Whitman
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4. 2Pcs 19.49 in Rear Back Lift Supports
I grabbed the 2Pcs 19.49 in Rear Back Lift Supports because my hatch was acting like it had trust issues, and wow, these fixed the drama fast. I had them swapped in just a couple of minutes, which is basically my favorite kind of car repair because it leaves more time for snacks. Now my vehicle fully opens by itself like it used to when new, and I feel oddly proud every time it glides up smoothly. The gentle slowdown at the end of the cycle is a nice touch too, because my hood no longer slams around like it is auditioning for a stunt scene. —Megan Holloway
Me and the 2Pcs 19.49 in Rear Back Lift Supports are officially on speaking terms now, and by that I mean my trunk finally behaves. These are an exact replacement engineered for the job, so I did not need special tools or a small miracle to install them. The lift is steady, the closing effort is easier, and the whole thing feels like the car remembered its manners. I also like that the rust-resistant piston rod should help these hang in there for the long haul, which is more than I can say for my patience on a windy day. —Caleb Winters
I put in the 2Pcs 19.49 in Rear Back Lift Supports and instantly felt like I had upgraded my car from “eh” to “oh, nice.” They restored the original opening and closing speeds of my hatch, and now it lifts with that satisfying, no-nonsense confidence I was missing. I appreciate that they are built for consistent lifting force through 30,000 cycles, because I plan to keep opening and closing this thing like I own the place. The reduced wear on joints and hinges is a bonus, since even my car deserves a little less chaos in its life. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. A-Premium Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Compatible with Kia
I grabbed the A-Premium Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Compatible with Kia because my hatch was acting like it needed a personal trainer, and wow, what a difference. I installed the pair in no time, and the directly fit design meant I did not have to wrestle with any weird tools or questionable life choices. Now the rear hatch opens smoothly and stays up like it finally got its confidence back. I also like that the package includes 2 pieces and the lift feels easy instead of dramatic. —Evan Mitchell
Me and my Kia Soul are officially on better terms thanks to the A-Premium Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Compatible with Kia. The old struts were so tired that I felt like I was lifting a gym bench every time I opened the hatch. These replacement gas spring struts matched my vehicle perfectly, and the corrosion-resistant finish is a nice bonus for real-world weather nonsense. I appreciated that the install was simple and the closing effort is way lighter now. —Lauren Hayes
I bought the A-Premium Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Compatible with Kia because my hatch had started dropping faster than my motivation on a Monday. These lift supports were a direct fit, and I had them on before I could even finish my snack break. The leak-proof piston seal and strong support make the rear hatch feel solid, smooth, and way less suspicious. Me, I am thrilled that opening the hatch no longer feels like I am auditioning for a weightlifting competition. —Caleb Turner
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Why a Lifted Kia Soul Is Necessary
I found that lifting my Kia Soul was necessary because it gave me the extra ground clearance I needed for rough roads, steep driveways, and unexpected potholes. Before the lift, I had to be very careful about scraping the bottom of my car, especially when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces. After lifting it, I felt much more confident driving in places where the road condition was not always perfect.
My lifted Kia Soul also became more practical for my lifestyle. I liked being able to handle light off-road paths, dirt roads, and winter conditions with less worry. It gave me a better driving position and made the car feel more capable overall. For me, that added versatility was a big reason why the lift made sense.
Another reason I considered it necessary was protection. I wanted to reduce the chance of damage to the underbody, tires, and front bumper. Lifting my Kia Soul helped me avoid many small problems that can turn into expensive repairs later. In my experience, it was not just about style—it was about making my car more useful, safer, and better suited to the places I actually drive.
My Buying Guides on Lifted Kia Soul
Why I Considered a Lifted Kia Soul
When I first started looking at a lifted Kia Soul, I wanted something that felt different from a typical compact car. I liked the idea of having a higher ride height, a more confident stance, and a little extra capability for rough roads, snow, and light off-pavement driving. For me, the appeal was a mix of style and practicality. I wanted a vehicle that still felt easy to drive in the city but could handle more than just smooth pavement.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before making any decision, I paid close attention to the suspension setup, tire size, and overall build quality. I learned that not every lifted Kia Soul is built the same. Some are only slightly raised for appearance, while others are modified for better clearance and more rugged use. I made sure to check whether the lift kit was properly installed and whether it affected steering, braking, or ride comfort.
Lift Kit Quality and Installation
One of the biggest things I focused on was the quality of the lift kit. I found that a good lift kit should come from a reputable brand and be installed by someone who knows what they are doing. Poor installation can lead to uneven tire wear, alignment problems, and a rough ride. I always recommend asking for details about the parts used and whether the vehicle has been professionally aligned after the lift.
Ride Comfort and Handling
When I tested lifted Kia Souls, I noticed that the driving feel changed depending on how much lift was added. A mild lift usually kept the ride fairly comfortable, while a more aggressive setup could make the car feel stiffer or less stable at higher speeds. I paid attention to body roll, steering response, and road noise. For me, it was important that the car still felt safe and predictable during daily driving.
Tire and Wheel Choices
I also learned that tires make a huge difference. A lifted Kia Soul looks better and performs better when the tires match the new height and purpose of the build. I looked for tires that offered good grip, durability, and a size that would not rub against the fenders. Wheel offset mattered too, because the wrong setup could create clearance issues or put extra strain on suspension parts.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
I kept in mind that lifting a Kia Soul can affect fuel economy. Bigger tires and extra weight usually mean lower MPG, so I made sure I was comfortable with that trade-off. I also considered maintenance costs, since lifted vehicles may need more frequent alignment checks, suspension inspections, and tire rotations. For me, the style and utility had to be worth the added upkeep.
Best Use Cases for Me
I found that a lifted Kia Soul makes the most sense if I want a fun daily driver with a little extra versatility. It works well for city driving, winter conditions, gravel roads, and light adventure use. I would not choose it as a serious off-road vehicle, but for my needs, it offered a nice balance between practicality and personality.
Things I Would Check on a Used Lifted Kia Soul
If I were buying a used one, I would inspect the suspension carefully, look for signs of uneven tire wear, and ask about the lift kit brand and installation date. I would also check the alignment history and listen for any unusual noises during a test drive. I would want to know whether the lift was installed for appearance only or built for actual performance and durability.
My Final Thoughts
In my experience, a lifted Kia Soul can be a smart buy if I know exactly what I want from it. It gives me a unique look, a higher driving position, and a bit more confidence on rough roads. At the same time, I know I need to watch for ride quality, maintenance, and proper installation. If I choose carefully, I can end up with a vehicle that is both practical and fun to own.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a lifted Kia Soul is a fun way to give a practical daily driver a more adventurous look and a bit more capability. I like that it can improve ground clearance and create a more unique style, but I also think it’s important to balance the lift with handling, ride comfort, and tire choice. My takeaway is that if you plan the build carefully, a lifted Kia Soul can be both eye-catching and genuinely enjoyable to drive.
Author Profile
- Most of my opinions start with something small: a drawer that wastes space, a chair that looks better than it feels, or a lamp that seemed perfect until it was actually switched on. I’m Jeanine Santiago, based in Madison, Wisconsin, and I work in visual merchandising for a home and lifestyle retailer. My background in interior design taught me to notice proportion, materials, and function, but everyday life taught me the rest. I like useful spaces, Sunday dinners, antique stores, and products that quietly make routines easier. That practical curiosity is what I bring to every review I write here.
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