Kia's Smart Drive mode may be a good option if you're looking for a more personalized and efficient ride. This clever feature tweaks your car's performance based on driving and road conditions. Our team at Huffines Kia Corinth digs into what Smart Drive Mode is, how it functions, and why so many Kia owners swear by it to get every bit of enjoyment from their daily drives.
Schedule a Test Drive Message Us Call NowWhat Is Smart Drive Mode, and What Is It For?
a car driving on a dirt road by Hyundai Motor Group is licensed with Unsplash License
Smart Drive Mode tackles the changing demands of today's driving. It's an innovative system that switches among driving modes — ECO, COMFORT, and SPORT — based on your driving habits and road conditions. Part of Kia's Drive Mode Select system, this feature feels tailor-made just for you.
Smart Drive Mode makes driving smoother, saves gas, and automatically adds more fun to your daily commute. This technology is available on select Kia models.
Understanding How Smart Drive Mode Works
In most normal driving situations, Smart Drive Mode stays in either ECO or COMFORT mode. It tracks how hard you step on the gas, when you apply the brakes, and how you turn the wheel and then adjusts accordingly. If you're cruising along the highway, it might slip into COMFORT mode. When stuck in stop-and-go traffic, ECO mode kicks in to save fuel. When you're passing another vehicle on the highway, it activates SPORT mode for extra punch.
Smart Mode takes a back seat during manual shifting while you have Smart Cruise Control engaged, or if your transmission oil is running too hot or cold. Most of the time, though, it's working in the background to adjust your shifting patterns, engine torque, and driving characteristics to give you the best drive possible for the conditions at hand.
Benefits of Using Smart Drive Mode
Saving on fuel ranks high on the list of Smart Drive Mode perks. Smart Mode also livens up your drive. As Kia explains, Smart Mode automatically adjusts performance to focus on speed when your driving style dictates it or comfort when you are more relaxed, which also helps driver fatigue. The system will move to SPORT mode if you need a boost, such as when tackling curving mountain roads.
Troubleshooting and Tips for Maximizing Smart Drive Mode
Smart Drive Mode isn't perfect. Sometimes it might not switch modes as expected, or your gas mileage might not improve as much as you'd hoped. If you experience this, check your vehicle settings first to confirm Smart Mode is active. If you're still unsure, check your owner's manual for guidance. If that doesn't help, a quick trip to our dealership may be in order.
To get the most value from Smart Drive Mode, give it time to learn your driving style and idiosyncrasies. Pay attention to how your car responds in different scenarios — you might be surprised by how well it adapts. Smart Mode consistently leads to better performance and efficiency, especially with solid driving habits.
Kia Models Featuring Smart Drive Mode
Several popular Kia models have Smart Drive Mode. The Kia Stinger was the first to implement this technology and use it to boost its already impressive performance. Smart Drive Mode helps the Kia K5 (formerly known as the Optima) navigate congested city streets and open highways with equal grace. SUV enthusiasts will spot Smart Drive Mode in the Kia Sorento, where it assists with various driving situations, the Kia Sportage, where it enhances fuel efficiency, and in the roomier Kia Telluride, adding to its comfort and responsiveness during longer journeys.
Smart Drive Mode availability varies by trim level and model year, so double-check before you buy. Other Kia models might lack Smart Drive Mode specifically, but still offer various driving modes to customize your experience. For example, the Soul keeps it basic with NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT modes. While not as sophisticated as Smart Drive Mode, these options let you adjust your vehicle's performance to match your preferences and road conditions.
Try Smart Drive Mode for Yourself at Huffines Kia Corinth
Automotive technology has come a long way since the Kia Stinger introduced Smart Drive Mode to Kia drivers in Corinth. Nothing beats firsthand experience, so why not test-drive a Kia equipped with Smart Drive Mode? Check out available models and schedule a test drive at Huffines Kia Corinth. Our team of Kia professionals can answer all your Smart Drive Mode questions and help match you with your perfect Kia.