This is the face of...
This is the face of Kia"s all-new Carens. The Multi-S unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show will form the basis of the Korean firm"s compact MPV challenger, due to arrive in the UK next September. Unlike the current car, the new model will be a seven-seater with fold-away seats in the rear. Engines will come from Kia"s existing line-up, and the prices are expected to range from í‚á£10,000 to í‚á£12,000. The new Carens is just part of Kia"s 2006 model offensive - a programme that will see the launch of the Magentis, and new versions of the Sedona MPV and Sorento SUV.
Well, the unit is certainly...
Well, the unit is certainly easy to use, with detailed maps that can be viewed in either 2 or 3D. It provides real-time traffic information via the Traffic Message Channel module, and then displays jams and gives options on how to beat them.
The device steered us clear of four troublespots on an M4 test route, and we arrived at our destination quicker than if we had stuck to the motorway.
It has safety in mind, too. Included in the price is a 12-month subscription to the NAVIGON Radar-Info speed camera database, which features more than 14,500 permanently installed sites in 14 European countries.
As well as navigation, the new Becker has an integrated video and MP3 player, plus JPEG picture viewer. Music can be played through the two internal speakers, and these delivered a better sound than most rivals.
The Becker works well, but its main problem is the 3.5-inch TFT touchscreen. Although it’s sharp and clear, many rival makers would have opted for a wider screen.