Following a successful European media launch, Kia turned to HARMAN to help drum up the excitement for the all-new Stinger GT Sport Sedan powered by Harman Kardon. Three waves of journalists from North America and Canada gathered in Los Angeles to experience the most anticipated Kia vehicle -- a true Gran Turismo that’s known to deliver superior performance and sophisticated style.

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The media launch party was developed around a stylish 70’s theme, where guests gathered at a retro-themed hotel in North Hollywood to enjoy movies, food and music from the era. HARMAN delivered the biggest hits from the decade through Harman Kardon listening stations and bluetooth speakers – including the all-new Go+Play – that provided music throughout the venue. Guests showed their creative side through a very competitive Stinger coloring contest that offered Harman Kardon products as prizes.

Each vehicle was equipped with an outstanding Harman Kardon audio system designed specifically for the unique cabin of the Stinger GT. One particular challenge for our engineers was the Stinger GT’s hatchback. Our engineers designed dual subwoofers to be placed under the front seats to provide deep, impactful bass which provides passengers with a powerful listening experience that perfectly matches the personality of the vehicle.

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Another feature which made an impression among press is Kia’s industrial design of speaker grilles, as well as the custom ‘speaker grille’ USBs loaded with curated music tracks that were set up by Harman Kardon in each vehicle.

Guests took the Stinger through the Angeles Crest Highway as well as on a precision auto course set up at Six Flags Great America. The reviews have been great – both for the car and for the sound system.  Some highlights include:

  • “A short list of available goodies includes a 16-way power driver's seat with adjustable bolsters; soft Nappa leather; a knockout HarmanKardon audio system with 15 speakers, 720 watts, seat-mounted subwoofers and resonance chambers in the center roof pillars…”  -- The Drive  
  • “An optional 15-speakerHarman /Kardon audio system kicks out the jams.” – Car and Driver  
  • “…the available Harman Kardon premium sound system sounded great.” – NY Daily News  
  • “The built-in 720-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system packs in 15 speakers and….is actually the best sounding speaker system we’ve ever listened to from all of Kia’s vehicles.” – The Gadgeteer

For the final evening of the program, guests were treated to an evening of fine food and live entertainment at the Kia Supper Club, presented by HARMAN. Stunning features from acrobats, dancers, jugglers and more delighted all the senses

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As an organization that always looks to elevate events, innovations and experiences through our pioneering audio solutions, we were proud to partner with Kia and gain the opportunity to participate in the Kia Stinger Global Media Launch. HARMAN takes pride in our full cross-functional Kia team as their contributions helped in making this pivotal launch a success.