TO:   Dealer Sales & Service Management Team
SUBJECT:  IQS Quick Tip #24 – Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) Drive Mode Operation (2020MY Forte, Rio, Soul)
Date:  February 28, 2020

The Forte introduced Kia’s first Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) and this technology has rolled out to additional models for 2020MY including the Rio and all-new Soul.

In contrast to the widely adapted Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) used in many of today’s vehicles, Kia’s IVT is a more sophisticated system that will adjust shift feel according to driver input. At times, shifting may be seamless and customers may not experience a large RPM drop or ‘shift shock’ as in a traditional automatic transmission, however when more acceleration is needed, the transmission will provide a conventional shift feel.

Please ensure to educate customers on this new transmission and how to change the vehicle’s driving dynamics via the Drive Mode feature described below. Drive Modes may vary based on model (the example used below is from a Forte).

SMART, NORMAL, and SPORT drive modes (A) may be changed according to the driver’s preference or road conditions. To cycle through drive modes, press the DRIVE MODE button (B).

NORMAL Mode - The system’s default mode is NORMAL mode and is not displayed on the instrument cluster.

SPORT Mode - A SPORT indicator will illuminate on the instrument cluster. The transmission shift points and steering feel will be more aggressive.

SMART Mode - When SMART mode is activated, the system automatically selects the drive mode best suited to the current driving system (economic, average, aggressive). A SMART indicator will illuminate on the instrument cluster.

Please share this information with your dealership personnel to ensure the perfect delivery in our continued pursuit of IQS leadership!

Sincerely,

Julie Kurcz
Executive Director,
Product Quality

Kia Motors America, Inc.

KDealer: QUICK TIPS:
https://www.kdealer.com/more/training/Pages/2020MYIQS.aspx