Living in the U.S., I've come to realize that making money isn't just about getting a higher paycheck.

Saving money is also a way to make money.

This is especially true with cars.

If you buy the wrong car, you'll be stuck with monthly payments, high insurance, fuel costs, and if it breaks down, repairs can easily cost $2,000.

On the other hand, if you choose the right car, you can significantly reduce your expenses for years.

In that regard, I find the Kia Soul to be quite a unique vehicle.

First of all, its appearance is unusual.

It doesn't seem to be an SUV or a sedan; from the back, it looks like a refrigerator on four wheels.

However, this boxy shape has tremendous advantages.

While the car is short in length, the interior is surprisingly spacious. When you fold down the back seats, it offers over 60 cubic feet of cargo space.

It's great for carrying everyday items, multiple boxes, luggage, or a lot of groceries from Costco.

It may look like a small car from the outside, but it functions like a small SUV on the inside.

Plus, parking is incredibly convenient.

If you want to keep a car for a long time in the U.S., repair costs are also important.

According to RepairPal, the average annual repair and maintenance cost for the Soul is about $437, and it has a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Of course, there have been some models with issues depending on the year and engine, so it's not accurate to say, "the Soul never breaks down."

When buying a used car, it's essential to check for recalls and maintenance records based on the model year.

Still, compared to driving a BMW or Mercedes, where a warning light can make your heart race, the Soul is definitely more accessible.

Parts and maintenance costs are generally less burdensome. And surprisingly, its safety features are not to be overlooked.

There are famous videos online showing a Soul hitting a tire that fell off the road and launching into the air before landing.

While it's misleading to conclude that "the Soul is a tank" from that, it is impressive to see a small boxy car handle such an incident.

In fact, the IIHS's 2026 recommended list for used cars for teens includes the 2015-2025 Soul.

This suggests that it is not merely regarded as a cheap car.

The used car market is also interesting. Over 1.5 million Souls have been sold in the U.S.

Because so many have been sold, it's relatively easy to find used models and parts.

However, there's an important point to note: production of the Soul will end with the 2025 model.

I think this is an interesting aspect for those looking at used cars.

Just because a model is discontinued doesn't mean its price will automatically rise.

In fact, it allows for the strategy of selecting a well-maintained used car at a lower price without needing to pay a new car premium.

According to iSeeCars, the price range for 1-5 year old used Souls is approximately between $13,000 and $21,000.

For someone who buys a car for status, the Soul might not be ideal.

If your neighbor just bought a new BMW X5 and you pull up in a purple Soul, it might feel a bit strange.

However, when you do the math, the story changes.

Having $60,000 tied up in a car with monthly payments of $900 versus buying a well-maintained Soul and driving it for 5 or 7 years can make a significant difference in asset building.

You can use the leftover money to invest in an IRA, buy stocks, or pay down your mortgage.

Of course, the Soul has its downsides. It doesn't have AWD, and it doesn't feel as heavy as a large SUV on the highway.

Insurance rates and theft risks should also be checked based on the model year.

Still, if you view a car simply as a means of transportation in the U.S., the Soul is a very smart choice.

It's compact, has ample cargo space, is easy to park, and has relatively low maintenance costs. Choosing the right car is also a financial strategy.

Cars bought to impress others can drain your finances, but a car chosen for your needs can save you money.