The Kia Soul is not quite ready for production yet, but in the meantime, car enthusiasts can still enjoy looking at the very cool-looking Soul concept.

Not surprisingly as evidenced by its name, the Soul is meant to create passion among consumers looking at the crossover segment. Sure, it has flexibility, functionality and utility, but more importantly to Kia, it has aggressive styling and a youthful demeanor.

There's no doubt that the concept version is stylish. It features a wraparound windshield, muscular wheel flares, stylish and angular front headlamps, and a sloped roofline. The roof itself has a panoramic sunroof as well as racks that have rails, allowing passengers to slide objects fore and aft.

The Soul is powered by a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, which is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability and adaptive cruise control.

Kia says that the Soul's interior was inspired by high-quality audio equipment. For instance, the front dash was designed around the front audio speakers rather than the other way around. The Soul uses a premium audio system, with speakers that are strategically located to maximize audio performance and sound quality.

The Soul's multimedia system includes Bluetooth and MP3 technology as well as multiple USB ports and Wi-Fi. Video monitors fold up and out from the centre console, similar to those on an airplane. In addition, the centre console itself runs the length of the cabin, so the monitors are available for rear seat passengers as well.

In terms of functionality, the two rear seats fold flat for extra cargo space. The rear lift gate includes a unique backpack compartment that can be configured to accommodate an individual's active lifestyle needs; it folds out like a mail slot for wet or muddy items such as a wetsuit and hiking shoes, or even a skateboard depending on its configuration. It's also easier for rear passengers to enter and exit the vehicle thanks to a lack of a B-pillar.