Rising demand for subcompact-sized SUV-styled models caused Kia to put more emphasis on the Soul’s crossover characteristics.

On the outside, Kia tweaked the design to make the wheel arches stand out more visually. Kia also updated the Soul’s distinctive grille and added LED daytime running lights.

The new Soul’s proportions also were increased to better compete in a segment that Kia says has grown to 12 competitors in 2014 from just four in 2008.

The second-generation Soul is 20mm longer (4140mm), 15mm wider (1800mm) and its wheelbase has grown by 20mm (2570mm) compared with its predecessor to provide more legroom, headroom and shoulder room.

“It looks more elegant, sophisticated and grown up,” Wolfgang Sailer, Kia Europe product manager for the Soul said at the car’s press launch in Sicily, Italy, last month.

Sailer added that the Soul’s interior was “completely redesigned” to increase perceived quality. Upgrades include better leather, more refined stitching and an easier-to-read instrument cluster.