Kia Australia Responds to Customer Feedback with New Speed Limit Warning Feature

Kia Australia is making strides to enhance driver convenience and address customer concerns by introducing a new feature to manage the audible speed limit warning. Following in the footsteps of its sister company Hyundai, Kia is rolling out a practical solution that allows drivers to turn off the persistent beeping that accompanies speed limit alerts.

A Convenient Over-the-Air Update

According to Roland Rivero, Kia Australia’s general manager for product, the new feature is already available via an over-the-air (OTA) update for the facelifted Sorento and the EV9 electric SUV. This update addresses feedback from drivers who found the constant audible warnings intrusive. For other models, the update will be available through a Dealer Software Update for non-Connected Car (ccNC) vehicles or via OTA for ccNC-equipped models.

“It’s already rolled out as an OTA update on Sorento and EV9. Others to follow either via a Dealer Software Update (for non ccNC) or OTA (ccNC),” Mr. Rivero confirmed.

Which Models Are Affected?

The fix will be applied to key nameplates including the Sorento and EV9, with other popular models such as the current Seltos and Niro crossovers set to receive the update soon. It’s important to note that not all recent Kia models are affected by this change. Vehicles like the Picanto, Cerato, Stonic, Sportage, EV6, pre-update Sorento, and pre-update Carnival in Australia are not equipped with the Overspeed Audible Alert and thus are unaffected.

How Does It Work?

The new feature allows drivers to disable the audible speed limit warnings with a simple long press of the mute button on the steering wheel. This change retains the visual speed sign information on the dashboard, ensuring that drivers remain informed without the constant auditory alerts. Hyundai first introduced this solution with the facelifted Tucson range earlier this year, and it has since been expanded to various models across the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands.

Global Standards and Customer Feedback

The audible speed limit warning is a feature mandated in many regions, including Europe, and is becoming a standard across numerous vehicle makes and models globally. However, the incessant beeping has been a point of contention among drivers. Hyundai Motor Group’s approach to address this issue has been well-received by customers who found the feature disruptive.

By implementing this update, Kia Australia is demonstrating its commitment to improving driver satisfaction and responding to customer feedback effectively. As the automotive industry continues to adapt to new regulations and customer preferences, innovations like these help enhance the driving experience while maintaining essential safety features.