Something that was introduced recently in the Kia product line that you may have in your new Kia is the DRIVE WISE Package. It offers a plethora of very helpful function and is available on selected Cars, Suvs and vans. Lets look at some of these:
Back up camera: Pretty basic. Almost every new car has one. They are very helpful in making sure that you are clear to go...no bikes, pets or small kids behind the car. They are tied in many times with audible back up sensors for added safety that beep at you if there is something behind you. Some models, like our SXL packages are available with a surround camera which gives you a view of everything around the car for 360 degree visibility. Remember, all these safety features are not a substitute for actually looking around and seeing what is there. (just like you did BEFORE all this stuff).
Cross Traffic Alert: This is a nifty sensor that will let you know if someone is crossing your rear. 👉👈Especially helpful if you are in a Stinger 😁and have two large SUVs in your way as you try to back out of a parking space.
Blind Spot Warning: Again, helpful, but be aware of who is around you. (Sometimes you may accidentally turn off the blind spot system and , well, you get it). If someone is in your blind spot, you will see an icon light up on the driver's side or passenger's side view mirror. If you have your turn signal on, it will beep at you. I think this is probably the most important feature to have aside from the rear camera.
Lane DepartureWarning System: This will help you pay attention to the road, but is by no means a substitute for driver awareness. Two cameras up behind the rear view mirror read the lines on the road. If you drift out of the lane without a turn signal, it will warn you that you are drifting, and in the case of the active system (available in some models) may even attempt to bump you back into your lane. I tend to turn this system off in city driving. It activates at about 40mph, and can be annoying in town where streets tend to have a lot of lines.
Smart Cruise Control: Available of selected Kias. It works like your old cruise control, but has radar that will pace the car in front of you at a pre set distance. Slowing down and speeding up with the traffic flow. The link below will explain in detail the LDWS and Smart cruise.
smart cruise and lane change warning
Autonomous Emergency Braking: I will let the Kia Video below go through this. It's very informative.
Autonomous Emergency Braking Video
And of course, the most important safety feature is YOU. Drive wise, and drive alert.
Remember, you can contact me any time by asking a question below, or e mailing me at cashatkia@gmail.com or if you are in Vegasm come see me at Jim Marsh Kia on West Centennial.
Have a KIA DAY!
