Not the first but UVO has been one of the better infotainment systems available. Carplay just expands it. Wayne Gerdes – CleanMPG – May 12, 2016 Kia announced that the 2017 Sportage and 2016 Optima, when equipped with a compatible navigation system or UVO3, can be updated or will be equipped with Apple CarPlay when the vehicles arrive at Kia retailers during the Q2. Owners who have own the 2017 Sportage or 2016 Optima equipped with a compatible navigation system or UVO3 will be provided with a downloadable update via My UVO that will be available beginning in the Q3. The 2017 Sorento is the first Kia offered with CarPlay support and other models in the Kia lineup eligible for the CarPlay update will be announced at a later date. A smarter and more convenient way to use the iPhone in the car, CarPlay gives drivers the ability to access the device's seamless user interface through Kia's UVO infotainment system. By connecting the iPhone® into the USB port, users are able to make phone calls, access music, send and receive messages, get directions optimized for traffic conditions and more while staying focused on the road. CarPlay also features hands-free support via Siri voice control or the vehicle's controls and touchscreen. AndroidAuto was not mentioned.
After playing with the UVO system in a Cadenza (Meow), I am thoroughly impressed with the speed of the system. It makes my wife's StarLink system seem antiquated. (Shhhhhh, don't tell her that!)