Kia is a South Korean automotive manufacturer. In this context, "Soul proprietor" is wordplay on the name of Kia's compact crossover SUV model, called the Kia Soul. The term "Soul proprietor" suggests that the Kia Soul is the ultimate owner or representative of the brand's soulful and distinctive characteristics.
Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Its parent company is Hyundai. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.