Kia rolls out satellite navigation
Finally joining the digital navigation party, Kia will start to offer integrated satnav touch-screen tech on a range of SUVs and sedansKia has finally embraced the digital mapping revolution, confirming that satellite navigation will now be offered on its cars - but only select models. And you can add between $990 and $1500 for the technology.
As Kia's reputation has been rising steadily in recent years - both in terms of design and engineering - one thing that had been missing on Australian delivered models was satellite navigation.
Sat nav will be offered first on its SUV models, Sorento and Sportage, with the Optima sedan to receive the technology in July.
The delay is believed to be due to a new touch-screen system developed specifically for Australia by Korean electronics giant LG, manifesting in a 7.0-inch colour touch-screen for Sportage and Optima and a 6.5-inch unit in the ageing Sorento.
The LG satnav system incorporates Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming, and is integrated into the reversing camera system too.
"We have promised Australian buyers the best in design, engineering and technology and this exciting new step is again proof that we make good on our promises," said Tony Barlow, Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer.
"With the support of head office in Korea we can now deliver better supply of the cars Australian buyers are demanding, and with some exceptional new technology."
As a first for an Australian-delivered passenger car, Kia will also offer a service called Mapcare, which provides owners with a two free map updates: one at the first year and a second update after year two.
The mapping systems are courtesy of Navteq and incorporate realtime traffic updates via SUNA, which is designed to help drivers navigate around congested roads and bottlenecks and can also alert motorists of accidents or roadworks.
Kia's new satnav system comes as standard on Platinum grade vehicles but adds a $990 premium, taking the price of the range-topping Sportage to $37,710 (petrol) and $40,710 (diesel). The top-shelf Sorento SUV climbs to $50,180, while the Optima Platinum sits at $37,980.
Otherwise, it's a $1500 option on lower-grade SLi Sorento and Sportage models.
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