The 2010 Kia Soul is named to the “Best Family Cars for 2010″ list in the “budget” category!

A proven consumer and media favorite, the 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle recently was named to the “Best Family Cars for 2010″ list in the “budget” category by leading automotive research site Edmunds.com and family-favorite Parents magazine, adding to an already extensive list of prestigious honors and recognitions for the funky hatchback.

The 2010 Kia Soul was highlighted for its safety features, appealing styling, overall family-friendly features and its attractive starting price below $14,000.

“Soul is such a unique and versatile car, suitable for drivers in any stage of life with its extensive array of safety features, style and overall value, including parents and families,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America.

“The fact that this award is given by two well-respected outlets and based on direct consumer feedback is invaluable and a testament to our continuing commitment to providing attractive vehicles loaded with an abundance of safety features, technology and value.” added Michael

Taking all current model year vehicles into consideration, Edmunds.com and Parents magazine selected the top 15 vehicles – three each in the budget, crossover, minivan, sedan and SUV categories – based on performance, reliability, safety, and family-friendly features.

In addition to analyzing, test-driving, and comparing specifications, Edmunds.com and Parents took into account feedback from parents who own and drive these vehicles every day.  All of the cars on the list also are good values, and the winners must have a strong track record for reliability and performance.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors’ uniquely styled affordable halo vehicle offers an extensive list of standard safety features in addition to a low starting price, perfect for budget- and safety-conscious families.

The extensive list of standard safety features includes front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.  Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also have been released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul, Shadow Dragon Soul, with another on the way shortly.

Offering consumers even more ways to personalize their Kia Souls, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging. [Source: Kia]