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At Crain Kia of Sherwood, we’re excited to share some big news. The new 2025 Kia EV9 now comes with something called Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology. This smart feature lets your car do more than just drive—it can help power your home! This means your Kia EV9 can work like a backup power source. If your lights go out during a storm or a planned shutoff, your EV9 can keep your home running. It’s a safe, smart way to stay prepared—and maybe even save money on your energy bill. What Is Vehicle-to-Home? Vehicle-to-Home, or V2H, is a way to use your EV9’s battery to give power to your house. It works with a special charger called the Wallbox Quasar 2. This charger sends power to your car, and it can also send power back to your home. This helps in many ways: It keeps the power on during outages. It can lower your energy bill. It works well with solar panels, too, so you can save even more money. With V2H, your car becomes more than just a ride—it becomes part of your home’s energy plan. How Does It Work? Here’s how to get started with Vehicle-to-Home with your Kia EV9: Pre-order the Quasar 2 charger Visit the Wallbox website to order the Quasar 2 charger and Power Recovery Unit. Install the equipment A licensed electrician will install the Quasar 2 in your home. Use your EV9 to power your home When the power goes out, or during peak electric hours, your car can power lights, the fridge, and other appliances. The Quasar 2 gives up to 12kW of power, which is enough for many things in your home. It also charges your EV9 quickly. Save Money with Smart Charging Electric rates go up during peak hours. But with V2H, you can charge your car at low costs (like at night). Later, you can use that stored energy to power your home when electricity costs more. If you have solar panels on your roof, it gets even better. You can charge your EV9 using the sun during the day and then use that solar power at night. Why Sherwood Drivers Love the Kia EV9 The Kia EV9 is already winning awards. It’s the 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, and it’s packed with smart features like: Ultra-fast charging Room for 6–7 passengers Digital Key technology V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) power output Now, with V2H, it becomes even more useful for families and homeowners in Sherwood, Little Rock, and Central Arkansas. Order Your Kia EV9 at Crain Kia of Sherwood Want to learn more about how the EV9 can power your home? Our team at Crain Kia of Sherwood, your trusted Kia dealer in Sherwood, AR, is here to help. Come visit us to see the EV9 in person and ask about ordering the Wallbox Quasar 2. We'll walk you through how this technology works and help you get started. Stay powered. Save money. Drive smarter. The Kia EV9 with Vehicle-to-Home is here—and it’s ready to change the way you think about driving and energy. 🔌 Ask us how to power your home with your EV!

At Crain Kia of Sherwood, we understand that great sound improves every journey. Whether driving to work or enjoying a long road trip, a top-notch audio system in your Kia can enhance your experience. Kia features three premium audio options: Harman Kardon, Bose, and Meridian. Let's take a closer look at each system to help you choose the perfect one for your needs. Meridian: Luxury Sound Kia's collaboration with Meridian offers exceptional quality if you're in the market for a high-end sound system. Meridian systems are engineered to provide an authentic and natural listening experience. Kia models with Meridian sound systems include: Kia EV6 Kia EV9 Meridian harnesses Horizon technology to convert stereo sound into multichannel audio, allowing you to enjoy a rich surround sound experience. Its RE-Q technology reduces unwanted cabin noise, and Intelli-Q automatically tunes the audio based on factors like speed and window position. With Meridian, you can expect a top-notch, personalized sound experience for those who appreciate quality audio. Bose: Clear Audio Bose is well-known for its crisp and well-balanced audio, and Kia includes these sound systems in a few of its vehicles. These systems offer clear, high-quality sound for everyone in the car, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience for both the driver and passengers. Kia models with Bose systems include: Kia Carnival: 12 speakers with advanced audio technology Kia K5: 12 speakers Kia Seltos: 8 speakers Kia Sorento: 12 speakers with advanced audio technology Bose's Centerpoint technology enhances audio signals for a truly immersive experience. Meanwhile, SurroundStage technology guarantees that everyone in the car enjoys the same high-quality sound. If you're looking for an accurate and dependable sound system, Bose is a great option. Harman Kardon: Immersive Sound Harman Kardon offers an incredible audio experience in various Kia models. It's an excellent option for music lovers who appreciate rich and clear sound. Kia models with Harman Kardon systems include: Kia Niro Kia Sportage Kia Telluride Harman Kardon’s Clari-Fi technology enhances compressed music by bringing back details, improving your songs' overall sound quality. Additionally, the QLS technology creates an immersive surround sound experience, wrapping you in the music. If you love being fully engulfed in your tunes, Harman Kardon is an excellent choice. Find Your Perfect Audio System at Crain Kia of Sherwood Check out our selection of top-notch audio systems at Crain Kia of Sherwood. Whether you're interested in the rich sound of Harman Kardon, the clear tones of Bose, or the deep bass of Meridian, our friendly team is ready to help you find the ideal audio system for your Kia. We at Crain Kia of Sherwood believe the right music can make your drive feel like an adventure. That’s why we invite you to come in and try out our audio systems for yourself. Take a test drive with us, and see how a new sound system can make your time on the road even more enjoyable. Visit our blog to learn about Kia App-Connect and utilize navigation, music, and more from your smartphone.

At Crain Kia of Sherwood, we’re thrilled to tell you about Kia's latest in-car technology: Kia AI Assistant. This amazing feature is here to make your time on the road smarter, safer, and more fun than ever before. If you’re a driver in Sherwood, AR, you’re going to love how this technology can change the way you drive. Let’s take a closer look at what the Kia AI Assistant can do and why it’s such a big deal. What Is the Kia AI Assistant? The Kia AI Assistant is a voice-activated system that lets you control your car’s features and get answers to your questions—just by using your voice. Built on advanced technology, including ChatGPT, and customized by Kia, this assistant is easy to use and super helpful. It’s like having a personal co-pilot right in your car! This exciting feature first appeared in the all-new Kia K4 sedan, and it’s already making waves for its ability to simplify your life. How Does the Kia AI Assistant Work? Using the Kia AI Assistant is as easy as saying, “Hey, Kia.” You can also press the AI Assistant button on your steering wheel to get started. Once it’s activated, you can ask it to do all sorts of things. Here are just a few examples: Control Your Car: Say something like, “Turn on the air conditioner” or “Turn off the heated seats,” and the AI Assistant will take care of it. Get Answers: Have a random question? Ask, “Why is the sky blue?” or “How do I change a flat tire?” and get a clear, easy-to-understand answer. Plan Your Trip: Need directions or recommendations? The AI Assistant can help you find the best route or suggest fun places to visit nearby. Entertainment: Want to listen to your favorite song or find a podcast? Just ask, and the AI Assistant will make it happen. Why Sherwood Drivers Will Love It For drivers in Sherwood, AR, the Kia AI Assistant isn’t just a fancy gadget—it’s a tool that makes everyday life easier. It’s perfect for busy parents, commuters, or anyone who wants a little extra help on the road. The Future of Kia AI Technology The Kia AI Assistant is part of a bigger trend in the car industry. Automakers like VW, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are using generative AI to create more natural, conversational experiences in their vehicles. This means your car isn’t just a machine—it’s a smart companion that can adapt to your needs. Visit Crain Kia of Sherwood Today Ready to see the Kia AI Assistant in action? Stop by Crain Kia of Sherwood to learn more about this incredible technology and check out our lineup of innovative vehicles, including the all-new Kia K4. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect Kia for your lifestyle. With Kia AI Assistant, driving in Sherwood, AR, has never been smarter or more enjoyable. Don’t miss out on this exciting technology—visit us today and see how Kia is changing how we drive! Stop by and test drive one of our Kia vehicles today.

Kia’s Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Updates make it easier than ever to keep your vehicle running smoothly and up to date with the latest features. This wireless technology allows you to update your Kia’s systems, including the powertrain, battery management, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), without needing to visit a dealership. We at Crain Kia of Fort Smith are here to give you a quick look at how OTA updates work and why they’re a convenient way to keep your Kia performing at its best. Find your new Kia vehicle today. Click here to shop Crain Kia of Fort Smith's selection. How OTA Updates Work Automatic Downloads Kia’s OTA updates happen automatically while you’re driving. The latest software is downloaded in the background, and you’ll get a notification through the Kia Access app once it’s ready. This means you won’t have to schedule a service appointment or stop what you’re doing to get your vehicle updated. Simple Installation Process Once the software is downloaded, you’ll see a prompt on your vehicle’s infotainment screen the next time you turn off the car. This will guide you through the installation. You will also need to ensure that: Your transmission must be in the park, The parking brake is engaged. The exterior lights are off. The hood is closed. Your vehicle cannot be driven during the update, so make sure it’s parked in a safe location. Completion and Notifications After the update is complete, you’ll receive another notification, and a QR code will appear on the infotainment screen. You can scan this code to see what new features have been added or improved in the update. The Benefits of OTA Updates Keeps Your Kia Up to Date OTA updates ensure your vehicle is always running the latest software, helping improve performance and safety. Whether it’s an enhancement to the powertrain, battery, or ADAS, your Kia will stay current with the latest improvements and innovations. Convenient and Time-Saving Gone are the days of needing to visit the dealership for minor software updates. With OTA updates, you can upgrade your vehicle’s software wirelessly, saving time and effort. Some updates even address software issues or recalls, all without the need to leave your home. Maintain a “New Car” Feel With regular OTA updates, your Kia will always feel like it has the latest tech, even years after you’ve bought it. New features are added over time, helping you enjoy that “new car” feeling for longer. How to Get Started with OTA Updates To take advantage of OTA updates, first ensure your vehicle is eligible. You can check it by entering your vehicle identification number (VIN) or model details on Kia’s website. A Kia Connect subscription is required for these updates, so ensure your subscription is active. Once you’re set-up, the updates will download automatically. When an update is ready to install, you’ll get a notification via the Kia Access app and your infotainment screen. The process is simple, and if you need help, we at Crain Kia of Fort Smith can help! Call us or stop by our Kia dealership near Van Buren, AR. Kia’s OTA Software Updates make it easy to keep your vehicle running at its best without the hassle of visiting a service center. These updates ensure your Kia is always equipped with the latest features, enhancing performance and safety while saving you time. With just a few taps on your screen, you can enjoy the convenience of keeping your Kia up to date wherever you are.

Stay connected on your journey with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features allow you to use your phone safely without taking your eyes off the road. Whether it's making calls, getting directions, or changing the music, these features have you covered. At Crain Kia of Sherwood, we're excited to demonstrate how these technologies can significantly improve your time on the road, making them essential for every driver. Shop Crain Kia of Sherwood's selection. Connecting Your Smartphone Connecting your phone with your Kia's infotainment system is simple. You can connect as many as six devices without wires, making it perfect for groups wanting to share their music or podcasts. However, remember that specific models might need a cable for connection. After linking up, you can smoothly operate your apps and phone functionalities from the car's display. Easy Access to Your Apps Connect your phone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to use your apps directly on your Kia's screen. This lets you call, text, and find your way without touching your phone, making it safer and more convenient. Calling and Texting: You don't need to remove your hands from the steering wheel to make calls or send messages. Simply utilize Siri or Google Assistant for assistance. Play Media: Enjoy listening to your favorite playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks while on the move. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can conveniently use your preferred media applications, such as Spotify and Apple Music. Maps: No need to struggle with your phone to find your way. Use applications such as Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Waze to display your directions right on your car's display screen. Plus, these apps offer real-time traffic updates, allowing you to steer clear of any hold-ups. Voice Commands Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make driving more fun by letting you control features with just your voice. Siri or Google Assistant can help you with directions, music, or messages without needing to pick up your phone. This helps you stay focused on driving, keeping you and your journey safe and pleasant. App Connect Tips Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your App Connect functionalities: Check Compatibility: See whether your smartphone can connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. While it's common for newer models to be compatible, it's a good idea to make sure. Read Your Car's Manual: Each Kia model has its own unique layout. To get the exact setup steps, please check the owner's manual for your car. Keep Your Phone Updated: Make sure to update your phone and its applications to ensure everything runs smoothly. Learn about Kia Connect technologies on our blog. Hitting the road is much more enjoyable with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features allow you to stay connected, blast your best tunes, and get information without taking your eyes off the road. Whether you're hooking up your device wirelessly or with a USB cord, you're set for a smarter and safer trip. Let Kia's handy features upgrade your driving experience next time you're out and about. Click here to learn about Kia NBA Infotainment customization on our blog.

This spring, Kia came out with a new update for basketball fans who love to show their team pride. With the 2024 Kia EV9, you can shine your car's screen in your favorite NBA team's colors and logo. And if you don't have the EV9, no problem! More Kia cars with the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit system will also get this fun feature soon. It's a perfect way for fans to show their team love while cruising around. "As avid basketball enthusiasts, we're thrilled to introduce our latest available OTA update, which combines the thrill of the NBA with the opportunity to personalize your Kia vehicle," said COO and EVP of Kia America, Steven Center. "This is just the tip-off, as we're committed to enhancing the ownership and driving experience with more exciting themes, collaborations, and digital features to be introduced in the future." Basketball fans have an exciting new way to support their favorite NBA teams, like the Memphis Grizzlies and Oklahoma City Thunder, directly from their cars. Select versions of the EV9 now come with special sounds that play when you open and close the doors, making every entry and exit an expression of your team spirit. It's a unique and enjoyable way for fans to showcase their loyalty. Are you shopping for a car in Sherwood, Arkansas, and want to take one of our new or used vehicles out for a spin? Click here to request a test drive at Crain Kia of Sherwood! The latest 2024 Kia EV9 is leading the way in Kia's new technology. Now, it gets better over time with Over the Air Updates, lessening the need to go to the dealership. Basketball fans are in for a treat, too. Kia's adding special NBA themes to its infotainment system in other models. These let you customize your car’s screen with your favorite NBA team's colors and logos for just $39.99 a theme. You can buy them easily through the Kia Connect Store, available on the Kia Access app or through the Kia Owner's Portal. About the All-New Kia EV9 The 2024 Kia EV9, Kia's flagship three-row electric SUV, has quickly become a favorite, winning numerous awards. It took home the titles of World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle at the 2024 World Car Awards. Moreover, it was chosen as the top pick on the 2024 Edmunds Top Rated list and earned the title of 2023 Family Car of the Year from Top Gear. Click here to shop our EV9 selection, available in Sherwood, AR. Check out our amazing selection of 2024 EV9 models, along with popular options like the Telluride and K5, at Crain Kia of Sherwood. Visit us at our location at 5830 Warden Road in Sherwood, AR, or customize your next vehicle on our website with our Custom Order page. Do you live near Sherwood, Arkansas, and want to finance your next vehicle purchase? We can help! Click here to visit our blog to learn about our financing options at Crain Kia of Sherwood.

Kia Connect is here to improve your drive! Previously called UVO Link, this collection of tech features is designed to make your drives safer and more convenient. Want to upgrade your time on the road? Keep reading to find out how Kia Connect can improve your driving. Do you want to custom order a vehicle with Kia Connect features? Click here to get started. Smartwatch App: IOS and Android With the Kia Access app for smartwatches, you can easily manage your car's features from your wrist. Whether you're rocking an Apple Watch, Pixel Watch, or Galaxy Watch, you can send remote commands to your vehicle. Digital Key You can now use your smartphone or smartwatch as a digital key to quickly unlock and operate your Kia, making it easier to lend to friends and family. Remote Lock and Unlock Are you worried you might not have locked your car? No worries! With Kia Connect, you can lock or unlock your vehicle from just about anywhere using your phone. Plus, if your keys get locked inside by mistake, you can quickly get them out. Find My Car Use the 'Find My Car' feature to locate your parked vehicle quickly. This tool can pinpoint your car's location and guide you directly to it. Wi-Fi Hotspot With in-car Wi-Fi powered by Verizon, you can have smooth internet access while traveling. This way, all passengers can surf and stream without using up their mobile data. Driving Score and Usage-Based Insurance Look at your score to discover your driving performance. This information can potentially help you reduce your insurance rates. Rear Occupant Alert Feel at ease with the Rear Occupant Alert system. It watches over your back seat so you remember a child or pet. If there's any movement back there and your vehicle is locked, you'll get a quick alert on your phone through the Kia Connect app. The EV9 is an award-winning family car. See what reviewers are saying about this all-electric vehicle on our blog. Climate Control With Kia Connect, you can easily adjust your car's temperature from anywhere, ensuring it's always comfortable when you step inside, regardless of the season. Stolen Vehicle Recovery If your car ever gets stolen, Kia Connect assistants can help police track and recover it. They work with law enforcement, utilizing tracking technology to find the vehicle. The team can also control the car's horn, lights, and locks and even immobilize it to prevent it from being driven, if necessary. Kia Connect gives you the power to manage your car from afar. Are you searching for a vehicle with Kia Connect features? Contact the Crain Kia of Sherwood sales team or swing by our dealership at 5830 Warden Road in Sherwood, Arkansas. Want to learn more about Kia technology? Click here for information on Kia Drive Wise.

Kia Drive Wise driver assistance technology helps you stay safe on the road. These advanced features provide peace of mind while driving on highways, back roads, and through town. They assist in various situations, making you feel secure on your drive. In this blog, we'll explore the different driver assistance features Kia Drive Wise offers. Does your car need an oil change? Click here to learn how to get started! City Driving Navigating a crowded city can be quite a challenge, with so many cars and people around. But Kia Drive Wise can make you feel more confident and safer on the road. This system has various features to help you safely maneuver through the city. For example, the Auto Emergency Braking feature uses sensors to detect pedestrians and cyclists and alerts you if you're getting too close. The Junction-turning technology can help you avoid accidents while turning corners. Additionally, the Blind-Spot View Monitor gives you a live view of the lane next to you on your screen, warning you if there's something in your blind spot. With these features, driving in the city becomes a breeze, Highway Travel If driving on the highway, Kia Drive Wise can make your life easier by taking care of the acceleration and braking for you with Smart Cruise Control. This feature allows you to set your desired speed and distance from the car in front of you. Not only that, but it can also help you follow the speed limits on certain federal highways and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. You can have a relaxed and secure driving experience with Kia Drive Wise. Are you shopping for a reliable used car? Click here to learn about our Kia Certified Pre-owned vehicles! Parking Do you often struggle with parking your car in a tight spot? If so, the Surround View Monitor feature will provide a clear view of your surroundings, making it easier to park your vehicle. And, if you still find it challenging, you can use the Remote Smart Parking Assist feature that will allow you to control your car's movement and park it safely. Once you have parked your vehicle, the Safe Exit Warning feature will alert you if there is any approaching car, making it safe to step out of it. Some models have a locking system that keeps the back doors locked until it's safe to open them. Backing Up Reversing out of a parking space can be difficult, especially if you're worried about hitting something. Luckily, Kia has Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist to help you avoid accidents. This technology uses sounds and visual cues to warn you if an object is behind you. If you get too close, the brakes will apply automatically to prevent collisions. With this excellent feature, you can feel safer and more confident while driving, knowing you're well-protected. Are you shopping for accessories for your vehicle? Click here to learn about our genuine Kia parts and accessories! When you're behind the wheel, safety should be your top priority. That's why Kia Drive Wise has advanced safety features to help you stay safe on the road, no matter where you drive. Whether navigating through a busy city, cruising on a highway, or parking in a crowded lot, these features provide a better understanding of your surroundings, making the driving experience safer for you and everyone around you. If you want to purchase a Kia vehicle with these advanced safety features, visit Crain Kia of Sherwood in Sherwood, AR. Want to custom order a new Kia vehicle? Click here to learn how to get started!

If you're looking for a town with a warm community feel, exciting outdoor activities, and plenty of fun for the whole family, Sherwood, AR is the place for you. Located just 10 miles outside of Little Rock, Sherwood has all of the benefits of the big city, with none of the downsides. Residents of Sherwood love everything the town has to offer. Read on to find out why this little city in Arkansas is a great place to settle down. 7 Reasons to Love Living in Sherwood AR 1. Safety One of the main reasons Sherwood is such a popular place to raise a family is because it's such a safe city. Named one of the safest cities in Arkansas, Sherwood is the perfect place to settle down and become a part of a warm and welcoming community. 2. Low Cost of Living Unlike the bigger cities in the US, Sherwood is very affordable. Most residents own their own homes, and those who do rent only pay an average of around $800 a month. The cost of living in Sherwood is 8% below the national average, and if you're looking to buy a home, the cost of housing in Sherwood is an impressive 19% below the national average. 3. Plenty of Nearby Hiking Sherwood is a great place to live if you love lacing up your hiking boots and heading to the mountains. There are a lot of trails around Sherwood, and some of the best views and scenic routes can be found at Pinnacle Mountain State Park just 22 miles away. The state park offers over 15 miles of trails, and it's a great place for a tough and rewarding climb or an easy, relaxing picnic. more 4. Lake Cherrywood Park If you're looking for beautiful scenery and great walking trails a little closer to home, Lake Cherrywood Park is a beautiful area full of beautiful paths and picnic spots. The park is located right in the heart of Sherwood. Lake Cherrywood is an especially great destination for residents who love to fish. The lake is full of Bream, Catfish, and Trout. 5. Fun for the Whole Family Sherwood is a great place to raise a family. 30.5% of households in Sherwood have children, and the city offers a variety of options for family fun. From the museums to the many parks around the city, children will never get bored. Sherwood also has a wonderful school system, which is another draw for families looking for the perfect place to start a family. 6. Good Weather With all of the wonderful outdoor activities around the city, the weather is especially important. Thankfully, the weather in Sherwood is often pleasant, and residents can expect mild and beautiful Spring and Fall months, perfect for hiking, exploring, or fishing. 7. Proximity to Little Rock If residents ever tire of the many activities Sherwood has to offer, they can take a day trip to Little Rock in just 20 minutes. Little Rock is an exciting and quickly growing metropolis, and it's a great place to have an excellent dinner, see a show, or walk along the beautiful river. Whether you're taking the family to the mountains or driving into the city, you'll need the perfect car for all of your Sherwood adventures. Come see us at Crain Kia of Sherwood and test drive your new vehicle today!