We are looking to replace my pos Malibu sometime next year. There was a previous thread where I asked about certain replacements, this is a more directed one.
We've gone out test driving several of the contenders, and the one we like by far the best is the Kia Soul. We like it for space for my large (both tall and wide) DH, inexpensiveness, standard bluetooth, acceptible gas mileage, fun colors available, cargo space, etc. I'd personally like a base model with the smaller engine and a stick shift, as long as my DH with his tall knees can operate the clutch comfortably. We plan on buying new in cash, either a 2013 or 2014 model about the time when it gets hot out next spring due to both having no a/c and that being about the time when the brakes will need replacing...again. They only last me 10-11 months on the malibu, I'll be replacing them soon for the last time.
Does anyone have any knowledge of this car? Any reasons to avoid it other than unfounded rumors that Kia is going out of business?