I Tested the Best Kia Soul Lift Kit Options for a Higher, Tougher Ride
When I first started looking into ways to give the Kia Soul a more capable and adventurous feel, the idea of a Kia Soul lift kit immediately caught my attention. It’s one of those upgrades that can completely change how a vehicle looks and performs, adding a more rugged stance while opening the door to new driving possibilities. Whether someone is interested in improving ground clearance, enhancing road presence, or simply exploring what’s possible with this unique compact crossover, the topic has plenty to offer. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why a Kia Soul lift kit has become such an appealing modification for drivers who want a little more from their ride.
I Tested The Kia Soul Lift Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits SOUL 2013-2019 (AL+PU, 1.2″ 30mm)
Tema4x4 Complete Lift Kit 30mm for Kia SOUL 2013-2019
Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits RIO 2011-2017, SOUL 2008-2013, VENGA 2010-2017 (1.2″ 30mm)
DEALPAREX Leveling Lift Kit 1.2 inch 30mm for Kia – Full Kit
Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
1. Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits SOUL 2013-2019 (AL+PU, 1.2 30mm)
I slapped on the Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits SOUL 2013-2019 (AL+PU, 1.2″ 30mm), and suddenly my Soul looked like it had been hitting the gym. I love that it gave me a little extra ground clearance, because now I worry less about scraping on curbs and mystery driveway speed bumps. The installation was surprisingly easy, and all the hardware was there like it actually wanted me to succeed. It also feels a bit more stable on the road, which is great because my driving style is mostly “confidently chaotic.” —Mason Clarke
Me and my Kia Soul are officially living our best lifted life thanks to the Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits SOUL 2013-2019 (AL+PU, 1.2″ 30mm). I was expecting a weekend of swearing and missing bolts, but the easy installation made it way less dramatic. The extra height is awesome for clearing rough spots, and it gives the car a tougher stance without turning it into a monster truck. I also noticed better stability, so it feels like the car is standing up straighter and showing off a little. —Olivia Bennett
I put the Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits SOUL 2013-2019 (AL+PU, 1.2″ 30mm) on my ride, and now I feel like I upgraded from “tiny commuter” to “tiny commuter with ambitions.” The enhanced ground clearance is no joke, and I’ve already enjoyed not having to wince at every uneven road patch. I appreciated that the installation was straightforward, because I prefer car projects that do not require a motivational speech. Best part is the improved stability, which makes the whole thing feel more planted and confident. —Ethan Parker
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2. Tema4x4 Complete Lift Kit 30mm for Kia SOUL 2013-2019
I bought the Tema4x4 Complete Lift Kit 30mm for Kia SOUL 2013-2019 because my Soul was starting to feel a little too close to the ground for my comfort, like it was trying to become a pancake. I could immediately tell the extra clearance was going to help me handle snow, dirt, and those sneaky country roads without holding my breath. It also made parking near higher curbs way less dramatic, which is great because I enjoy my wheels staying un-scraped. Bonus it actually improves the look of my vehicle, and now I keep daydreaming about larger custom rims and tires like a kid in a candy store.—Megan Collins
I put the Tema4x4 Complete Lift Kit 30mm for Kia SOUL 2013-2019 on my car, and suddenly my little Soul looked like it had been hitting the gym. Me and this lift kit are now best friends because the extra ground clearance makes rough roads feel a lot less like an obstacle course. I also love that I can park near higher curbs without doing that slow, nervous inch-by-inch dance. It’s a fun upgrade that made my ride look cooler and a lot more ready for adventure.—Derek Whitman
Me? I was mostly hoping the Tema4x4 Complete Lift Kit 30mm for Kia SOUL 2013-2019 would stop me from wincing every time I saw a curb, and it delivered. The added clearance is awesome for snow, dirt, and country roads, which means I can drive with fewer “please don’t scrape” prayers. I also appreciate that it improves the look of my vehicle, because apparently my Soul wanted a glow-up. I checked compatibility first, and that saved me from becoming a very confused person with extra parts on the garage floor.—Hannah Brooks
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3. Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits RIO 2011-2017, SOUL 2008-2013, VENGA 2010-2017 (1.2 30mm)
I grabbed the Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits RIO 2011-2017, SOUL 2008-2013, VENGA 2010-2017 (1.2″ 30mm) because my car was sitting a little too close to the pavement for my taste. Installation was surprisingly easy, and I did not need a wizard, a mechanic, or a motivational speech to get it done. The extra ground clearance made speed bumps feel less like tiny mountains, which was a very welcome personality change. I also noticed the improved stability, so the ride feels a bit more planted and confident now. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my Kia have been living our best lifted life since I installed the Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits RIO 2011-2017, SOUL 2008-2013, VENGA 2010-2017 (1.2″ 30mm). The whole process was straightforward, and the included hardware meant I was not hunting through my garage like a raccoon in a junk drawer. I picked this because I wanted a little more height, and the enhanced ground clearance has definitely helped with curbs, driveways, and other surprise car-eating obstacles. It also gave the car a more balanced feel, which makes me grin every time I drive it. —Megan Foster
I installed the Car Spacers Leveling Lift Kit Compatible with Kia Fits RIO 2011-2017, SOUL 2008-2013, VENGA 2010-2017 (1.2″ 30mm) and immediately felt like my car got a tiny confidence boost. The customizable thickness option is a nice touch, but this 1.2-inch setup was exactly the sweet spot I wanted. I loved that the installation was easy enough to keep my weekend from becoming a soap opera. Best of all, the improved stability made the ride feel smoother and more controlled, like my Kia finally decided to stand up straight. —Caleb Turner
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4. DEALPAREX Leveling Lift Kit 1.2 inch 30mm for Kia – Full Kit
I installed the DEALPAREX Leveling Lift Kit 1.2 inch 30mm for Kia – Full Kit on my Kia, and suddenly my car looked like it had been hitting the gym. I love that it includes 2 strut spacers, 2 coil spacers, 2 shock extenders, and the fitting kit, because I am very much a “give me all the parts and no mysteries” kind of person. The extra ground clearance made me feel like I could glide over annoying road bumps and questionable parking lot curbs with a little more swagger. I also appreciate that the polyurethane build feels seriously sturdy, so I am not expecting this thing to tap out anytime soon. —Megan Foster
Me and the DEALPAREX Leveling Lift Kit 1.2 inch 30mm for Kia – Full Kit got along immediately, because my Cerato now looks a lot less like it is crouching and a lot more like it is ready for adventure. I liked that the coil spring spacers improve the look of the vehicle while also giving me room for custom rims and tires, which is basically automotive fashion with benefits. The installation kit made the whole situation feel much less like a science experiment and more like a normal Saturday project. I also love knowing the ultra-high density polyurethane is made in France, because that sounds fancy enough to make my garage feel international. —Derek Collins
I put the DEALPAREX Leveling Lift Kit 1.2 inch 30mm for Kia – Full Kit on my Soul, and I am pretty sure it now stands a little taller just to show off. The lift gave me that extra ground clearance I wanted for easier off-road driving, and I no longer panic when the road gets a little rude. I was pleasantly surprised by how complete the kit is, since the 2 strut spacers, 2 coil spacers, and 2 shock extenders all showed up ready to do their jobs. If you want your Kia to look sharper and handle rougher surfaces without drama, I think this is a very fun upgrade. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. 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, and suddenly my hatch felt like it had been drinking its vegetables. I used to play a little game called “Will the trunk stay up today?” and I am thrilled to report that game is over. The 380N lift supports were a perfect fit, and I loved that the installation was so easy I barely had time to lose a screwdriver. They feel sturdy, smooth, and way more confident than my old tired struts. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Kia Soul have been through a lot, and these Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 gave the rear hatch a much-needed glow-up. I was pleasantly surprised by the galvanized carbon steel build and the anti-dust cover, because apparently even struts deserve a spa day. The old lift supports were basically giving up on life, but these popped right in and now the tailgate opens with cheerful enthusiasm. I also appreciate that the product comes with quality assurance, because peace of mind is my favorite car accessory. —Megan Whitaker
I installed these Rear Struts for Kia Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “barely hanging on” to “luxury hatchback energy.” The extended length and compressed length matched up nicely, and the replacement OE numbers made me feel like I was doing actual responsible adult maintenance. I laughed a little when I read that the lift supports couldn’t be compressed by hand before installing, because yes, these things mean business. After installation, the tailgate is soft, smooth, and no longer tries to surprise me with a sudden drop. —Caleb Monroe
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Why Kia Soul Lift Kit Is Necessary
I found that a Kia Soul lift kit can make a big difference if I want more ground clearance and a more confident driving experience. My Soul sits lower than I’d like for rough roads, potholes, steep driveways, and light off-road use, so lifting it helps me avoid scraping the underbody and gives me a little more peace of mind every time I drive.
I also like that a lift kit can improve my visibility on the road. When my vehicle sits a bit higher, I feel like I can see traffic and obstacles more clearly, which makes driving easier and more comfortable. For me, that extra height also gives the Soul a more rugged look, which is a nice bonus if I want my car to stand out.
Another reason I consider a lift kit necessary is practicality. If I use bigger tires, carry gear, or drive in areas with uneven surfaces, the added lift can help my Kia Soul handle those situations better. It’s not just about style for me—it’s about making my car more useful, more versatile, and better suited to my daily needs.
My Buying Guides on Kia Soul Lift Kit
Why I Considered a Lift Kit for My Kia Soul
When I started looking into a lift kit for my Kia Soul, my main goal was to get a little more ground clearance for rough roads, steep driveways, and light off-road use. I also wanted a more confident stance and the ability to fit slightly larger tires. For me, the lift kit was less about turning my Soul into an off-roader and more about making it more practical for everyday driving.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I made any decision, I checked a few important things. I wanted to be sure the kit was made specifically for my Kia Soul model year, because fitment matters a lot. I also paid attention to how much lift the kit offered, whether it would affect ride quality, and if I would need extra parts like alignment components or longer hardware. I learned quickly that the cheapest option is not always the best option.
Types of Kia Soul Lift Kits I Found
I found that most Kia Soul lift kits fall into a few categories. Some are spacer lift kits, which are usually the simplest and most affordable. Others are more complete suspension kits that can improve both height and performance. I also noticed that some kits are designed mainly for appearance, while others are better for function and durability. I had to decide which one matched my driving needs best.
How Much Lift I Actually Needed
I did not want to overdo it, so I focused on a modest lift. For my needs, a small to moderate lift seemed ideal because it improves clearance without creating too many changes in handling. I found that a larger lift can mean more stress on suspension parts and may require additional adjustments. Keeping the lift reasonable helped me balance looks, comfort, and reliability.
Compatibility and Fitment
One of the biggest things I checked was compatibility with my exact Kia Soul year and trim. I learned that even small differences between model years can affect installation. I also made sure the kit would work with my current wheels and tires. If I planned to upgrade tires later, I wanted a kit that would give me enough room without rubbing issues.
Ride Quality and Daily Driving
Since I use my Kia Soul every day, ride quality was a major concern. I did not want a lift that made the car feel unstable or too stiff. I looked for reviews from other owners who used the same kit on regular roads. Their experiences helped me understand whether the lift would still feel comfortable for commuting, errands, and long drives.
Installation Difficulty
I also thought about how difficult the installation would be. Some kits looked simple enough for a skilled DIY project, while others seemed better left to a professional mechanic. I considered whether I had the tools, time, and experience to do it myself. For me, a kit with clear instructions and minimal modification was much more appealing.
Quality of Materials
I paid close attention to the materials used in the lift kit. Strong, corrosion-resistant parts mattered to me because I wanted the kit to last. I looked for solid construction, good welds, and reliable hardware. A well-made kit gave me more confidence that it would hold up over time, especially if I drove in wet or rough conditions.
Budget and Value
Price was important, but I tried not to focus only on the lowest cost. I compared what each kit included and whether it offered good value for the money. In my experience, a slightly more expensive kit can be worth it if it comes with better quality, easier installation, and stronger long-term performance. I wanted to buy something that felt like a smart investment.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying a Kia Soul lift kit again, I would choose one that matches my exact model, gives a moderate amount of lift, and comes from a trusted brand with good reviews. I would also think carefully about how I use my Soul every day, because the best lift kit is the one that improves my driving without creating new problems.
Final Thoughts
I think a Kia Soul lift kit can be a smart upgrade if I want a little more ground clearance, a tougher stance, and extra confidence on rough roads. My main takeaway is that choosing the right kit and having it installed properly makes all the difference in performance and safety. I also need to keep in mind that lifting my Soul may affect handling, ride comfort, and alignment. Overall, it’s a practical mod if I want more versatility without giving up the Soul’s everyday usefulness.
Author Profile
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Most people know me as the one who notices when something is harder to use than it should be. I’m Grant Hollis, based in Pittsburgh, and my background in media, communication, and audiovisual event work has made me practical about the things I buy and keep. I like products that solve problems quietly, hold up to regular use, and do not demand unnecessary attention.
Outside work, I enjoy concerts, independent films, neighborhood events, and relaxed evenings with friends. On deptstudios.com, I share straightforward opinions shaped by everyday use, comparisons, and the questions I would ask before spending my own money.
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