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Kia’s next generation Soul crossover will go on sale in the UK in Q1 next year and the brand has released the first images of the new model in European specification.

The Korean brand will show of the European spec model at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month. Engineers were briefed to improve the interior, use higher quality materials and create a more driver-focused design.

Customers will be able to choose from three different roof colours, black, white and red, as well as up to 11 exterior paint colours.

The pair of new Kia Souls displayed on the Kia stand at Frankfurt will also exhibit a new SUV Styling Pack, featuring piano black bumper trim, side skirts, wheel arches and a black painted roof.

The new Soul is based on the Cee’d platform and there is more leg, head and shoulder room, while the cargo area is increased by 4% to 354 litres (plus additional underfloor storage) with the rear seats upright.

The Soul will be available with the latest versions of Kia’s 1.6-litre GDi petrol and CRDi diesel engines, as well as six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Both engines are carried over from the outgoing model, and feature improved efficiency with lower emissions.

Premium specification options include front LED daytime running lights and rear LED ‘halo’ lights, xenon headlights, keyless entry and push-button engine start, automatic climate control, cruise control, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, panoramic glass sunroof and heated and electrically folding exterior mirrors.

Kia will also be showing another B-segment model in Frankfurt which could sit alongside the Soul in the UK model line-up.