Critical Knowledge:

• Convertible version of 2010 Kia Soul
• Built with the younger person's budget in mind
• Painted Soul'r Yellow
• Two-panel roof with rollbar for added protection
• 4-passenger seating
• Crank windows
• 19-inch wheels
• 120- or 140-horsepower 4-cylinder engine
• 30 mpg or better with manual transmission

Introduction
Who remembers the Kia Sportage Convertible? Better yet, who remembers the original Ford Bronco? It's obvious that someone at Kia Motors America does. Take elements of each and you've got the recipe for the Kia Soul'ster Concept that debuted at the 2009 North American International Auto Show.

The Kia Soul'ster Concept is based on the 2010 Kia Soul, itself a South Korean riff on the Scion xB. Tom Kearns, chief designer at Kia Motors America, said the Soul'ster is "a fun, affordable convertible for active people who like to share good times with friends." That describes most people. Well, except for that "active" part. Kia also claims that the Soul'ster Concept was designed with a younger person's budget in mind, which means the car would be comparatively inexpensive if Kia decided to actually build it.

For more information:

• See Kia Soul'ster Concept Pictures
• Browse other Kia models
• Read more Previews