Kia slams down Australian Open specials

JUST in time for the Australian Open that it sponsors, Kia Motors Australia (KMAu) has launched a quartet of specials inspired by the Grand Slam tennis event, headlined by a unique version of the just-launched Stinger.

Dubbed Rafa Signature Edition, this Stinger pays homage to famed Spanish player Rafael Nadal, with its 75-unit run representative of the number of singles titles 'El Nino' has captured during his career.

Priced from $47,990 before on-road costs, the Rafa Signature Edition commands a $2000 premium over the range-opening 200S variant upon which it is based.

Buyers will pick up 19-inch alloy wheels, an 8.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system, a nine-speaker sound system, brown leather upholstery, exclusive body decals featuring Mr Nadal's signature, and a unique title number on an interior badge for the extra outlay.

Additionally, an autographed Rafa tennis racquet with a certificate of authenticity is included in the purchase price.

The Rafa Signature Edition is available with Panthera Metal, Deep Chroma Blue or Aurora Black Pearl paint.

Based on the Picanto, Rio and Sportage, the other three specials are officially named Australian Open Special Edition.

Significantly, the Picanto version features styling cues from the flagship GT-Line variant sold overseas that is still being considered by KMAu for a local launch.

However, Picanto fans will have to make do with the Australian Open Special Edition in the interim, with it featuring the GT-Line's contrasting body accents, dual exhaust tips and body kit.

Other additional equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, GT-Line badging, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), red-accented premium seats, a premium steering wheel and gear-lever knob, alloy sports pedals and a six-speaker sound system.

Restricted to 150 examples, the Australian Open Special Edition costs $16,777 driveaway and is based on the automatic S variant offered Down Under.

It is only available with Clear White, Aurora Black, Titanium Silver and Signal Red paint.

Based on the entry-level Si grade, the Sportage Australian Open Special Edition is offered with a petrol (360 units) or diesel (140) engine, priced at $31,777 and $36,777 driveawa,y respectively.

It ups the ante with autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, satellite navigation with live traffic, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, 18-inch alloy wheels, front parking sensors, LED DRLs and high-beam assist.

Every option from the Sportage colour palette is available with the Australian Open Special Edition.

Limited to 300 examples, the Rio Australian Open Special Edition is based on the automatic S variant and checks in at $17,777 driveaway.

Features expand to 17-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel-mounted cruise control, side mirror-integrated indicators, and a premium steering wheel and gear-lever knob. All paint colours are on offer.

Each Australian Open Special Edition comes with a tennis pack consisting of a Babolat racquet, a backpack and a tube of Wilson balls.

The Australian Open kicks off at Melbourne Park on Monday, January 15.