2010 Kia Shadow Dragon Soul Storms into Detroit

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Kia's Soul is virtually begging to be customized, and like similar models from Scion, Kia has taken the initiative of offering a factory-tweaked version for fun right out of the box.

Reminiscent of the Soul "Burner" concept shown at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, the Shadow Dragon Soul's name stems largely from its exterior appearance. Designers have painted the car in gloss black, then applied matte black dragon graphics and stripes. If that weren't enough, a black finish was applied to the 18-inch aluminum wheels, bumper inserts, and the wing spoiler. Interior modifications are limited to the seats, which are trimmed in black leather.

Like the previous two Soul special editions (the Denim and Ignition), the Shadow Dragon Soul is built upon the Soul + model. A sunroof, fog lamps, moonroof, Bluetooth, USB audio port, and carpeted floor mats are all standard equipment. The Shadow Dragon is also equipped with the available Audio Upgrade Package, which adds a center speaker, a subwoofer, and speaker lamps that pulse to the music.

Micahel Sprague, Kia's vice-president of marketing, says the Shadow Dragon is "the most distinctive special-editon Soul" yet. If you agree, hurry to your Kia dealer. Shadow Dragon models equipped with a manual transmission start at $18,890.

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