Kia is constantly adding new technology to its infotainment system available on US and European models. The Koreans announced that the 2017 Sportage and 2016 Optima, when equipped with a compatible navigation system or UVO3, will be offered with Apple CarPlay compatibility when the vehicles arrive at Kia retailers during the second quarter.
Additionally, customers who have previously purchased the 2017 Sportage or 2016 Optima equipped with a compatible navigation5 system or UVO3 will be provided with a downloadable update via myuvo.com that will be available beginning in the third quarter. Currently on sale, the 2017 Sorento is the first Kia vehicle to be offered with CarPlay support and other models in the Kia lineup eligible for the CarPlay update will be announced at a later date.
A smarter and more convenient way to use the iPhone in the car, CarPlay gives drivers the ability to access the device’s seamless user interface through Kia’s UVO infotainment system. By connecting the iPhone into the USB port, users are able to make phone calls, access music, send and receive messages, get directions optimized for traffic conditions and more while staying focused on the road.
CarPlay also features hands-free support via Siri voice control or the vehicle’s controls and touchscreen.
“The arrival of CarPlay compatibility follows on a promise we made when Optima launched last year. These running changes and available downloads will seamlessly bring iPhone’s easy-to-use interface and functionality to our newest and best-selling models," said Henry Bzeih, Managing Director Connected & Mobility Services for Kia.
