Kia Launches New UVO eServices Infotainment System

Trying to keep up in the constantly changing landscape of automotive technology, Kia launched the newest version of its UVO infotainment setup, which debuted in a 2014 Kia Sorento at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show.

New for 2013, UVO has adopted a telematics system called eServices, powered by a smartphone app. The app will power many of the systems functions, including voice-controlled navigation, vehicle diagnostics, 911 connect and enhanced roadside assistance.

The 911 feature will alert the authorities if the airbags deploy in your vehicles, while the diagnostics will automatically search the vehicle for operating problems, and will schedule an appointment online with the nearest Kia dealership and alert the owner through their phone if one is found.

The app comes at no extra cost, and will provide services like a parked vehicle locator which will direct you back to your car if you can’t find it.

When the 2014 Kia Sorento goes on sale, the UVO system will only work with iPhones, but Android phones are expected to be adopted by the second quarter of 2013.

Source: AutoGuide

2012 LA: 2014 Kia Sorento gets redesigned, first model to get UVO infotainment system

Along with the 2014 Kia Forte, the Korean brand also showed off its redesigned Sorento CUV While the new 2014 Kia Sorento may seem like a facelift, the model is quite different boasting an all-new chassis, a new Gasoline Direct Injected (GDI) V6 engine, a redesigned interior and the brand’s new infotainment system – UVO.

“With each new vehicle launch Kia is advancing the concept of value to new levels of sophistication and with significant chassis, suspension, powertrain and comfort and convenience upgrades the new Sorento continues that trend,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing and communications, KMA. “With more than 80 percent of the 2014 Sorento including new or significantly redesigned parts, it’s obvious that the improvements are not just skin deep; including technological enhancements such as UVO eServices, the next generation of our voice activated telematics system, and Kia’s first-ever blind spot detection system.”

Power for the 2014 Kia Sorento comes from either a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine (standard on the LX and EX) making 191-hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. The 3.3 liter GDI V6 is available optionally on the LX and EX but is standard on the LX V6, EX V6, SX and SX Limited. The V6 produces 290-hp and 252 lb-ft of torque.

 

The inside redesign is pretty significant in terms of improved quality and new standard features. The 2014 Kia Sorento is also the first model by the brand to receive the company’s UVO eServices Infotainment System with Voice Command Navigation.

“UVO was a breakthrough for Kia, and signaled the brand’s ambitious plans to become an in-vehicle technology leader by enabling drivers and passengers to use all of their personal technologies more safely and easily, while creating additional entertainment experiences,” said Henry Bzeih, head of the connected car program and chief technology strategist, KMA.

Last but not least, the 2014 Sorento gets an SX Limited model, which will feature a bunch of bells and whistles and will be top-of-the-line trim-level for the model.

Happy Cyber Monday everyone! Get your cyber shop on and check out our inventory online for holiday specials and more! http://bit.ly/TmSERW

2012 Kia Soul Review

Fun! That is what the Kia Soul is. Despite the Hamster commercials, the Kia Soul is a solid ride that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and it is also a super fun car that actually makes you excited to drive.

Not quite an SUV, a hatchback or a crossover – the Kia Soul is in a realm all its own and is considered to be a compact car with a lot of oomph. Starting at a base price of $14,400 for the 1.6L GDI engine version, prices can go as high as $20k for a 2.0L I4 engine with all the bells and whistles. The Soul also earns its gas stripes with 27mpg city/35mpg on the highway – that is not bad for a car that looks likes an SUV but performs gas wise like a compact. The Soul can also be upgraded from 15″ wheels up to 18″ alloy wheels.

While the Soul won’t tear up the road due to its lack of speedy prowess, it is still impressive on roads and street driving. It did fantastic in stop and go traffic. However, the suspension could have been a bit more bouncy as it it took potholes hard when falling into them. Highway driving is smooth and tight and the ability to switch into manual is another nice feature that turns the driving experience up a notch.

Once again the Infinity Audio system is showcased in the Kia Soul. What makes this audio system a bit different this go around, is the integration of speaker lights. The driver can control the colors and how often the lights throb when the music plays. The louder the sound in your car, the better the speakers glow and pulse in time with music’s beat. While this is a seriously fun and unique feature, it can also become distracting while driving. So unfortunately we had to turn it off after a while. However, even this feature just exemplifies the party aspect of the car. What I do find strange however is that these lights are located in the front and not also in the back, where the passengers sit, and where it might have been more appropriate.

In addition to the Infinity audio system, Kia’s tried and true Navigation system with SiriusXM is also an option with rear-camera display. This interface along is the same as with all the other current 2012 Kia model cars. There is also the standard USB/AUX input jacks. Strangely enough our iPhone 5 wasn’t recognized by the USB port or the audio system. I assume that a software update will fix that.

Welcome back from the weekend friends.

Hopefully this takes a load off your Monday, except now we're going to have to do some math and figure out how to make this short work-week work out to 100%.

Hey there Kia owners! Current owners of qualifying competitive vehicles may be eligible for additional savings. Stop in and see us and steak out the competition!

Happy Hump Day friends! We're half way to the weekend!