[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Salon International de l’Automobile (Geneva Motor Show) in Switzerland is considered one of the most important automobile events of the season, as it lays the groundwork for the year to follow. Kia Motors, as usual, has an eye-catching exhibit for its fans and spectators at this year’s show.
With the debut of new models and upgraded automobile technology, Kia is showcasing all kinds of surprises to the show floor.
All-new lean machine: Optima Sportswagon
The 2016 Geneva Motor Show marked the world premiere of Kia’s brand-new Optima Sportswagon. Inspired by the 2015 Sportspace concept, the Sportswagon is Kia’s first D-segment tourer model. With the latest driving features, versatile functionality and striking aesthetic design, this Europe-exclusive model is expected to broaden Kia’s appeal to both private and fleet customers.
The front of the model resembles the very popular Optima sedan, while the rear features a distinctive and spacious cabin with multipurpose fold-over seats. High quality soft touch materials with metallic accents complete the interior of the Optima Sportswagon.
The Sportswagon also features the latest range of Kia’s innovative driving and infotainment features, with new touchscreen audio-visual navigation (AVN) and a six speaker audio system in a thoughtfully sound dampened cabin. The car also provides wireless cellphone charging along with two USB ports for improved convenience and comfort. Providing an upgraded driving experience and automobile zeal, the Sportswagon model is an undeniably practical, dynamic, and lean new addition to Kia’s vehicle line-up
A glimpse of green: Niro HUV and Optima Plug-in Hybrid
Alongside the all-new Optima Sportswagon, Kia Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) and Optima Plug-in Hybrid also made their European debuts at Geneva. The two green models featuring Kia’s latest eco-friendly innovations were introduced for the first time under Kia’s EcoDynamics sub-brand at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. They will be available in European markets during the second half of 2016.
Prior to their official European debut at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the Optima Sportswagon, Niro and Optima PHEV were previewed at an exclusive media lounge event held at Kia’s European Design Center in Frankfurt. Journalists who attended the event and experienced the vehicles firsthand predicted great success in the market.
Live Easy, Drive Easier
Kia’s exhibition at Geneva also introduces newest sub-brand DRIVE WiSE, created to foster safer and more enjoyable driving. Displaying the past, present and future of autonomous driving and driving assistance technologies through interactive displays, Kia demonstrates the cutting edge innovations scheduled for release over the next 15 years.
With the surge in worldwide smartphone usage, in-car connectivity is becoming increasingly important for consumers. In order to support this growing trend, Kia plans to introduce Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ in all European models in the coming 18 months. Kia Niro and Optima Sportswagon will be among the first models to feature these latest upgrades. The newest operating systems with full Apple and Android compatibility will offer driver assistance and in-car entertainment functions such as voice control, hands-free call and text and music streaming. The integrated systems will offer more entertainment and ease while driving.
Kia-Gims Press Conference
Kia’s comprehensive display at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show provides a glimpse into the future, both near and far, that Kia Motors has in store for global audiences. According to the auto maker, dedication to inspiration and surprise has been a driving force behind its “continuous offering of top quality products and innovations to the world.”
Explore the photos from the event and stay tuned for more news straight from Geneva!
Source: Kia Buz
