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Kia has been quietly raising the bar when it comes to in-vehicle technology, and the 2026 model year is a strong example of that commitment. Akron, Ohio drivers can check out Kia’s top 2026 technology upgrades across Kia's refreshed SUV, hybrid, and sedan lineup. From smarter safety systems to more intuitive connectivity, the changes are meaningful—not just cosmetic. more AI-Assisted Safety Systems One of the most talked-about top 2026 technology upgrades is the advancement in AI-assisted safety features. Modern Kia models are equipped with driver-assistance technology that can read road conditions, monitor driver attention, and respond faster than traditional systems. Features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning have become more refined with upgraded sensors. Now Enhanced Forward Collision-Avoidance can detect oncoming traffic and vehicles when you’re turning left, helping to prevent some of the most serious accidents. Driver Attention Warning, which formerly monitored eye movement to ensure you weren’t getting drowsy or distracted, is accompanied by Hands-On Detection, which now monitors physical contact with the steering wheel while you’re using automated aids to ensure your interaction. For highway driving, Smart Cruise Control 2 can adapt speed based on active navigation and changing speed limits. Another major advancement is Highway Driving Assist 2. This expands upon the original system which helped maintain speed, safe distance from other vehicles, and lane centering, and can now even make automated lane changes. These systems don't just react—AI allows them to anticipate. It’s a huge shift in how safety technology works day-to-day, especially for commuters and families navigating busy roads throughout Akron, Ohio. Predictive Maintenance Alerts Another highlight among the top technology upgrades drivers will want in 2026 is predictive maintenance technology. Rather than waiting for a warning light to appear, newer Kia vehicles use onboard diagnostics to flag potential issues before they become serious problems. This can include monitoring battery health, brake wear, and engine performance over time. For everyday drivers, this kind of proactive insight can save time, reduce repair costs, and keep vehicles running smoothly. It's especially useful for those who rely on their vehicle daily and can't afford unexpected breakdowns. Kia Connect and In-Car Connectivity Kia Connect continues to be one of the standout features across the 2026 lineup. Using the Kia Access platform, drivers can remotely lock and unlock doors, check vehicle status, and even schedule service—all from a smartphone. The system is designed to keep your vehicle working with your schedule, not against it. The top 2026 technology upgrades in connectivity also include improved touchscreen interfaces including dual 12.3” screens, with faster response times and more seamless, wireless smartphone integration. Whether you prefer Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™, the experience feels more natural and less distracting. Kia's investment in electrified powertrains is another area where 2026 brings real progress. Models like the 2026 Sportage Hybrid, 2026 Sorento Hybrid, and 2026 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid reflect top technology upgrades drivers will want in 2026, blending fuel efficiency with capable performance. The 2026 EV6 and EV9 continue to push Kia's all-electric capabilities forward with refined range management and charging technology. These aren't just environmental choices. They're practical ones, offering lower fuel costs and a more modern driving experience for those ready to make the switch. Visit VanDevere Kia to Learn More From AI-assisted safety systems and predictive maintenance alerts to seamless connectivity and electrified powertrains, Kia is continuously building upon its reputation and knowledge with smart innovations that actually mean something to drivers. If you're ready to explore what these features look like in person, visit VanDevere Kia and find the right 2026 model for your lifestyle in Akron, Ohio.

If you've spent time behind the wheel of a modern Kia, you may have noticed that the digital screens inside feel surprisingly personal. That's not by accident. Kia vehicles offer display themes, customizable visual settings within the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system—that let you tailor the look and feel of your cockpit to match your mood or driving style. So, what are display themes in Kia vehicles, exactly, and how do they work? Let us show you how Kia makes every drive for you in Akron, Ohio, more intimate. more But What Are These Display Themes? Display themes are pre-designed visual layouts that change the color schemes, backgrounds, and overall appearance of your Kia's digital screens. Rather than being locked into a single default look, drivers can choose from a variety of themes that shift the atmosphere of the interior. Whether you prefer something sleek and minimal or bold and dynamic, there's likely a setting that fits. These themes typically apply to both the digital instrument cluster, the screen directly behind the steering wheel, and the central touchscreen. When you select a theme, the changes appear across both displays, creating a cohesive and immersive environment inside the cabin. How Do You Access and Change Display Themes? Accessing display themes in your Kia is straightforward. You'll typically navigate to the settings menu through the central touchscreen. From there, look for a “Display” or “Theme” option where you can browse available styles and preview how each one looks before committing to a change. Some Kia models allow you to customize even further by adjusting individual elements within a theme, such as the gauge style or ambient lighting colors. Customizing your digital driver experience is designed to be intuitive and enhance your experience, not make it more difficult, so most drivers can make adjustments without digging through a complex menu structure. Which Kia Models Feature Display Themes? Display themes are found across a wide range of Kia's current lineup. Models like the 2026 Sportage, 2026 Sorento, and the 2025 K5 sedan feature large digital displays that support theme customization. Higher trims on these vehicles typically offer more theme options, including licensed themes like Star Wars and Marvel, and deeper personalization settings. As Kia continues to expand its hybrid and electric lineup—including models like the 2026 EV6 and 2026 EV9, display themes have become an even more prominent feature. These vehicles often include themes tailored specifically to the EV experience, such as Energy Flow Visuals, National Geographic, and eco-focused design elements. Drivers in Akron, Ohio, interested in exploring these options will find a strong selection of eligible models to consider. Why Display Themes Matter for Your Driving Experience You might wonder if something as visual as a display theme actually affects how you drive. It genuinely can. When the information on your screen is presented in a way that's easy to read and visually comfortable, you're better able to keep your focus where it belongs, on the road. Beyond practical readability, personalizing your digital driver experience adds a sense of ownership and connection to your vehicle. It transforms a standard dashboard into something that reflects your preferences, which is part of what makes the modern Kia ownership experience feel so thoughtful. See Display Theme Options First-Hand So, what are display themes in Kia vehicles? They're one of the quieter but meaningful ways Kia has brought personalization into everyday driving. From choosing a bold look on your commute to switching to a calmer aesthetic for a weekend drive, these customizable visual settings give you real control over your digital environment. If you're ready to explore Kia's lineup and experience these features firsthand, the team at VanDevere Kia is here to help.

Few things grab a driver's attention faster than a warning light appearing on the dashboard. One moment everything seems normal, and the next there's a symbol you've never noticed before glowing on the instrument panel. The good news is that not every dashboard light signals a serious problem. Many are simply your Kia's way of keeping you informed about what's happening with your vehicle. VanDevere Kia wants to help you understand what these symbols mean, help you stay calm, take the right action, and keep your Kia running smoothly for years to come. more Your Kia Is Designed to Keep You Informed Modern Kia vehicles continuously monitor important systems throughout the vehicle. When something requires your attention, a dashboard light appears to let you know. These indicators serve as an early warning system, helping drivers address small concerns before they become larger problems. They can alert you to maintenance needs, changes in tire pressure, or issues involving critical vehicle systems. One helpful thing to remember is that dashboard lights are color-coded based on their level of urgency. Red lights typically require immediate attention. Yellow or amber lights indicate a condition that should be checked soon. Green and blue lights are generally informational and simply confirm that a feature is active. Red Warning Lights Should Never Be Ignored Red dashboard lights are your Kia's most urgent alerts. If you see a red oil pressure light, engine temperature warning, battery warning light, or brake system warning, it's important to address the issue as soon as it is safe to do so. These warnings often indicate conditions that could affect vehicle safety or cause damage if left unattended. For example, an engine temperature warning may mean the engine is overheating. A brake warning light could indicate low brake fluid, a brake system concern, or simply that the parking brake is engaged. When a red warning light appears, it's always a good idea to err on the side of caution and seek professional assistance. Yellow and Amber Lights Mean It's Time to Schedule Service Yellow and amber dashboard lights are less urgent, but they still deserve attention. The check engine light is one of the most common examples. Sometimes the cause is relatively simple, such as a loose fuel cap. Other times, it may indicate a condition that requires professional diagnosis. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System light is another frequently seen warning, especially during seasonal temperature changes. As temperatures drop, tire pressure naturally decreases, which can trigger the warning light. Other amber indicators may relate to traction control, electronic stability systems, or other vehicle functions designed to help keep you safe on the road. These warnings don't usually require you to stop driving immediately, but scheduling service sooner rather than later is always a smart approach. Blue and Green Lights Are Usually Good News Not every dashboard light signals a problem. Blue and green indicators are generally there to let you know a system is operating as intended. A blue light often indicates that your high-beam headlights are on. Green lights may confirm that cruise control is active, turn signals are operating, or certain driver-assistance features are engaged. These indicators are simply informational and are considered part of normal vehicle operation. Don't Overlook Maintenance Reminders Your Kia also uses dashboard notifications to help you stay on schedule with routine maintenance. Oil change reminders and service interval alerts are designed to help protect your vehicle's performance and reliability. Following these recommendations can help extend the life of your Kia and support long-term dependability. Routine maintenance remains one of the easiest ways to help prevent unexpected repairs and keep your vehicle operating at its best. Let the Experts Help Dashboard lights are helpful, but they don't always tell the entire story. If a warning light appears and you're unsure what it means, having your vehicle inspected by a trained technician is the best next step. The service team at VanDevere Kia in Akron, OH is here to help diagnose dashboard warnings, answer your questions, and provide the maintenance or repairs your Kia may need. If it's a simple reminder or a more urgent concern, getting expert guidance can give you confidence every time you get behind the wheel.

Many shoppers ask about the origin of their vehicles, and VanDevere Kia in Akron, OH provides many models built in the United States. This local production helps buyers find vehicles without extra import costs, and we encourage you to contact our team to learn more about our current stock. Understanding where your vehicle is assembled can help you make a better choice for your next purchase. more Kia Roots in the United States The Kia assembly plant is located in West Point, Georgia, and this factory is officially known as Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. It has built cars for over 15 years, and the plant provides more than 3,000 jobs for American workers. This facility helps the local economy, and it produces more than 340,000 cars every year for consumers. Benefits of Local Assembly Cars made in Georgia do not have import taxes, and these tariff free vehicles have more steady prices for buyers. Local building also makes the supply chain shorter, which means VanDevere Kia can get new cars to the lot faster. If a vehicle is built in Georgia instead of overseas, the shipping process is much simpler. Kia Models Made in the United States The Georgia plant builds the Telluride, Sorento, and Sportage SUVs, and the 2027 Telluride includes a 3.8 L V6 engine. This engine produces 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, and the interior features a 12.3" touchscreen. The system includes Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto© for easy phone connection. Available trims for the Telluride include the LX, EX, and SX Prestige, and these models use 18" or 20" wheels. The 2027 Sportage is also built at this facility, and it features a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine with 187 hp. This SUV offers 17", 18", or 19" wheels depending on the chosen trim level. Popular trims like the LX and EX offer many features for daily driving. Why Domestic Production Matters Trade rules can change car costs quickly, so buying a car made in the United States protects you from these price changes. You can feel confident about the source of your vehicle, and this local focus shows that Kia is committed to American buyers. Knowing your car is one of the many built in Georgia provides peace of mind. Contact VanDevere Kia Today If you are interested in the Telluride or the Sportage, you can find them at VanDevere Kia in Akron, OH. Our team can show you the features of these locally built SUVs, and you can visit our website at vandeverekia.com to see our current inventory. We look forward to helping you find a vehicle that fits your needs.

Drivers in Akron, OH often search for vehicles with low fuel costs. VanDevere Kia offers many fuel-efficient models in its 2026 lineup. If you commute daily or take long trips, these vehicles help you use less fuel. Reach out to our team to learn more about our current inventory. more The 2026 Kia Niro Hybrid The 2026 Kia Niro Hybrid provides high fuel economy for local drivers. This model features a 1.6 L 4-cylinder engine that produces 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. It achieves 53 combined mpg on most trims, but the SX Touring trim gets 49 combined mpg. The interior includes a standard 8" touchscreen or an available 10.25" display. The Niro Hybrid is available in LX, EX, SX, and SX Touring trims. While the LX trim uses 16" alloy wheels, higher trims offer 18" wheels. Standard technology includes Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®. This vehicle is a practical choice for navigating traffic in Akron, OH. 2026 Kia Sportage and Sorento Hybrid Models The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid uses a 1.6 L turbo engine. This powertrain delivers 232 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The FWD version gets an estimated 43 combined mpg. It features a 12.3" touchscreen display. Trim levels include the LX, S, EX, X-Line, and SX Prestige. The 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid also uses a 1.6 L turbo engine with 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This 3-row SUV earns 37 combined mpg for FWD models. It is available in EX and SX Prestige trims. Both the Sportage and Sorento offer Kia Connect® for remote vehicle access. Features and Efficiency Kia hybrid models focus on reliability and technology. These vehicles include an industry-leading warranty for long-term peace of mind. Connectivity features like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® are standard on these models. Because these vehicles include Kia Connect®, you can monitor your vehicle from a smartphone. Drivers can also choose plug-in hybrid versions of the Sportage and Sorento. These models allow for short trips using only electric power. This option increases total efficiency for many daily drivers. Finding the right model depends on your space needs and fuel goals. VanDevere Kia in Akron, OH has a variety of hybrid SUVs to choose from. Visit vandeverekia.com to see our available models and find the best Kia gas mileage for your lifestyle.

A successful family road trip depends less on the destination than the journey itself. Time, comfort, and sense of calm matter more than outright performance. The right vehicle, then, is not the most powerful or the most complex, but the one that supports everyone in it. Kia’s 2026 lineup approaches this with clarity. Models such as Sorento, Telluride, and Carnival MPV are not simply spacious. They are carefully arranged to make long-distance travel feel more comfortable mile after mile. more Space That Feels Intentional The Kia Telluride and Sorento offer seating for up to 7 or 8 passengers, with layouts that avoid the cramped, compromised feeling often found in three-row vehicles. Access to the third row is straightforward. The Carnival MPV extends that idea further. With up to 145.1 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the first row, it offers a level of flexibility that suits larger families or longer trips. The Sorento, with up to 75.5 cu. ft., balances space with a slightly more compact footprint. For smaller households, the Sportage Hybrid provides a more contained alternative without feeling restrictive. It is proportioned in a way that suits everyday driving while still accommodating the demands of travel. Technology That Serves the Journey Kia Connect integrates navigation, remote access, and vehicle management into a single system. It allows for route planning, traffic awareness, and basic vehicle control without unnecessary complication. Rear-seat entertainment, available in models like the Carnival, addresses a more practical concern. Keeping the back passengers engaged over long distances reduces fatigue for everyone, especially the driver. In vehicles such as the EV9, this technology extends into electrification. Range management and charging information are presented clearly, making longer trips in an EV more approachable than you might’ve initially thought. Safety as a Constant Presence Kia’s driver-assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Monitoring, work together to maintain stability and awareness over extended journeys. The effect is cumulative. Less strain, fewer corrections, and a more composed drive. Forward collision-avoidance systems add another layer, particularly in variable traffic conditions. They do not replace the driver, but they support them in moments where attention may briefly lapse. Comfort Over Distance Long-distance comfort is where these vehicles distinguish themselves. Tri-zone climate control, available in models like the Telluride and Sorento, allows different areas of the cabin to be managed independently. It sounds simple, but over several hours, it makes a noticeable difference. Seating is supportive without being overly firm, and cabin noise is well managed, allowing conversation to remain easy even at highway speeds. These are not theatrical features. They are improvements that shape how a journey can feel from point A to point B. A More Considered Way to Travel Kia’s strength lies in how these elements come together. Space, technology, safety, and comfort are not treated as separate ideas, but as parts of a single experience. For Akron drivers, VanDevere Kia offers the opportunity to see how these vehicles perform beyond the showroom, where their value becomes more apparent with time spent on the road. Schedule a test drive online or check out our entire new inventory lineup online today. Visit VanDevere Kia to explore a Kia lineup designed not just for the drive ahead, but for the journey as a whole.

What Are Display Themes in Kia Vehicles? Kia is known for designing vehicles that blend innovation with style, and Display Themes are a perfect example of that commitment. These unique digital designs let drivers personalize the look of their dashboards with custom colors, graphics, and animations. They create a fun and dynamic way to connect with your Kia every time you start your drive. Keep reading to learn more about Display Themes in Kia vehicles by VanDevere Kia in Akron, OH. more Have Questions? Call Us 234-226-4420 View Our New Kia Inventory Display Themes in Kia Vehicles Explained Display Themes in Kia vehicles are customizable dashboard visuals designed to make the driving experience more personal and engaging. Drivers can choose from themed animations, color palettes, and graphics that appear when starting or turning off the vehicle. For sports fans, Kia even offers NBA-inspired themes, letting you represent your favorite team with dashboard designs that capture team spirit. With this feature, your Kia becomes an extension of your personality. Read More: What Does the Kia Charge Pass Do? How to Download and Apply Display Themes Adding a new Display Theme to your Kia is simple and takes just a few steps. Start at the setup menu, then select Screen Layout > Display Theme. From there, you can browse available themes and preview options before choosing. If the theme hasn’t been purchased yet, you can scan a QR code or visit the Kia Connect Store to complete the purchase. Once you’ve selected your theme, continue through the prompts, and the download will begin. After the download finishes, reboot the AVNT system to apply the new design to your dashboard. You can also decide to wait and switch it later using the same menu. Once the reboot is complete, your dashboard will reflect your selected theme. How to Change and Remove Display Themes Switching to a different Display Theme is just as straightforward. After purchasing a new theme in the Kia Connect Store, return to the Screen Layout > Display Theme settings. Select the new option, let the download finish, and reboot the AVNT system. Once it restarts, your dashboard will instantly display the updated look. If you want to remove a theme, head back into the display settings and press the delete icon in the edit menu. Choose the theme you’d like to remove, confirm the deletion, and it will be erased from the system. If the deleted theme is assigned to any driver profile, the dashboard automatically returns to the standard Kia theme. This flexibility lets you update, refresh, or reset your vehicle’s style. You May Also Like: Vehicle to Home (V2H) Charging Technology Is Now Available for Kia EV9 What Models and Trims Are Eligible for Display Themes? Currently, Display Themes are available on Kia models equipped with the latest ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) infotainment system. For now, all trims of the Kia EV9 support this feature, with more models expected to adopt it in the future. As Kia continues rolling out updates, more drivers will be able to enjoy the customization that Display Themes provide. This makes Kia one of the first automakers to integrate such a wide range of digital personalization options directly into their vehicles. Learn More About Display Themes at VanDevere Kia Display Themes give Kia owners a fresh way to connect with their vehicles, offering customization, fun, and personality every time they drive. They highlight Kia’s commitment to innovation while adding excitement to the everyday commute. To learn more about Display Themes or to explore Kia’s latest models, contact VanDevere Kia in Akron, OH. Reserve a New Kia in Akron, OH

2025 Kia Vehicles with Three Rows Near Akron, OH If you need extra space for passengers and cargo, Kia has you covered. The 2025 Kia lineup features multiple three-row vehicles, perfect for families, road trips, and daily commutes. Whether you want an SUV, an MPV, or an electrified option, Kia offers stylish, comfortable, and tech-packed vehicles with three rows. Please keep reading to learn more about the 2025 Kia vehicles with three rows from our team at VanDevere Kia near Akron, OH. more Have Questions? Call Us 234-226-4420 View Our New Kia Inventory Get Online Pre-Approval for Financing a Kia in Ohio Which 2025 Kia Vehicles Have Three Rows? Kia offers multiple three-row vehicles so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs: 2025 Kia Sorento It is a versatile midsize SUV with a bold design, spacious interior, and advanced technology. It offers robust performance and available all-wheel drive. 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid The new Sorento Hybrid is a fuel-efficient version of the Sorento, providing excellent gas mileage without compromising on space or comfort. 2025 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid This plug-in hybrid version allows short electric-only drives while offering a gas engine for longer trips. 2025 Kia Telluride It is the largest Kia SUV, known for its upscale interior, rugged capability, and top-tier safety features. It is ideal for families and long road trips. 2025 Kia Carnival MPV A stylish and practical minivan with SUV-inspired design, flexible seating, and advanced entertainment options for families. 2025 Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid A hybrid version of the Carnival that delivers improved fuel efficiency while maintaining its spacious and family-friendly design. 2025 Kia EV9 Kia’s all-electric three-row SUV combines futuristic styling, cutting-edge technology, and a long-range battery for an eco-friendly driving experience. Read More: Check out the 2025 Kia X-Line Nightfall Collection! Why Buy a 2025 Kia with Three Rows? Kia vehicles with three rows offer generous space for passengers and cargo. Whether driving kids to school or heading on a weekend adventure, these vehicles provide ample legroom and storage. Many models also feature flexible seating so that you can configure the space. Beyond space, Kia three-row vehicles come packed with technology. Most models include large infotainment screens, smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assist features. With Kia’s reputation for safety and reliability, you can drive confidently. Shop for 2025 Kia Vehicles with Three Rows Near Akron, OH Finding the right Kia for your needs is easy at VanDevere Kia. Whether you want an SUV, a minivan, or an electric car, Kia has a three-row vehicle to match your lifestyle. Contact or visit our dealership in Akron, OH, to test drive your favorite Kia model today.

Which 2024 Kia Vehicles Offer the Convenience of a Power Liftgate? Are you tired of struggling with heavy groceries or fumbling for keys while juggling bags? Say goodbye to the hassle and hello to convenience with the brand's innovation - power liftgates! Not only does this feature provide convenience for everyday tasks, but it also promotes safety by eliminating any strain on the back or the risk of dropping items while trying to open the trunk. In this blog post by VanDevere Kia, we'll be diving into the exciting world of 2024 Kia vehicles with power liftgate in Akron, OH. more View Our New Kia Inventory 2024 Kia Vehicles Featuring Power Liftgate 1. 2024 Kia Sorento: The 2024 Kia Sorento boasts a power liftgate that adds a touch of convenience to its versatile design. With the push of a button, access to the cargo area becomes effortless. 2. 2024 Kia Telluride: Experience luxury and convenience with the 2024 Kia Telluride, featuring a power liftgate that effortlessly grants access to its spacious interior. Loading and unloading have never been easier. 3. 2024 Kia Sportage: The 2024 Kia Sportage combines athleticism with practicality, offering a power liftgate that enhances its functionality. This compact SUV is perfect for those who need extra space but don't want a bulky vehicle. 4. 2024 Kia Carnival: As the epitome of versatility, the 2024 Kia Carnival features a power liftgate that streamlines your daily routines. Load groceries, luggage, or gear with ease thanks to this convenient feature. 5. 2024 Kia Niro: For those looking for an electric vehicle, fear not, as the 2024 Kia Niro EV will also have a power liftgate option available. This eco-friendly crossover already boasts impressive cargo space, so adding a hands-free liftgate makes maneuvering with groceries or luggage even more effortless. What Are the Important Dashboard Warning Lights in Kia Vehicles? Reserve and Test Drive the 2024 Kia Lineup at VanDevere Kia Today! Eager to experience the convenience of the 2024 Kia vehicles with power liftgate in Akron, OH? Look no further than VanDevere Kia. Schedule a test drive today and immerse yourself in the blend of innovation and functionality that defines the brand's latest offerings. Our knowledgeable sales team will happily walk you through all the features and technologies available on each model.