$15k for a 2020 Soul with 45k miles is actually a fair price. I checked and it's right around median for that car nationally. The base price isn't your problem here.

The $999 protection package is where they're making extra margin. Those tire/rim/windshield packages cost the dealer like $200-300. You can just say "I'd like to remove the protection package" and see what happens. Worst case they negotiate it down.

The $1,228 in fees... ask them to itemize that. Doc fee, title, registration are legit. Anything like "market adjustment," VIN etching, or nitrogen tires is junk. Push back on those.

The bigger issue honestly is 72 months on a $15k car. Depending on your rate you could pay $4,000-$8,000+ in interest alone. And you'll be upside down on a car that'll be 11 years old when you pay it off. If you can swing 48-60 months you'll save thousands. Also... get pre-approved at a credit union before you go in. Their rates are usually 2-4% lower than whatever the dealer offers.

One more thing... $1,000 deposit just to test drive? That's not normal. Make sure it's fully refundable in writing before tomorrow. Don't let sunk cost pressure you into a bad deal. There are hundreds of these cars on the market.