Hyundai's Pleos Connect infotainment system shines in usability and technology, enhancing the driving experience in the new Grandeur sedan.
The Hyundai Motor Group is gearing up to revolutionize the in-car experience with its newly redesigned Pleos Connect infotainment system, set to debut in nearly 20 million Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles globally by the year 2030. This significant rollout highlights Hyundai's commitment to modernizing its vehicle interface and enriching user interaction. Recently, I had the opportunity to test this system first-hand while driving the luxurious Hyundai Grandeur Calligraphy edition, South Korea’s best-selling full-size sedan.
User Experience and Design
The Pleos Connect system surpassed my expectations, blending a sleek interface with practical functionality. It typically features a multi-screen setup, consisting of a large central display complemented by a narrow gauge screen. This design is enhanced by a row of physical buttons and knobs that provide tactile feedback, ensuring that drivers can interact with the system without getting distracted. For high-end models like the Grandeur, an optional Heads-Up Display (HUD) adds to the functionality by projecting essential information directly onto the windshield.
The core of this system runs on Android Automotive, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution; Hyundai’s customization gives it a unique identity. The interface is responsive, providing a quick navigation experience. You can run multiple applications simultaneously or utilize a single app in a full-screen format, depending on user preference. Down at the bottom of the central display, an app dock offers easy access to frequently used features, while important vehicle information is displayed prominently in the top left corner.
Performance and Features
One standout feature of the Grandeur is its adaptive cruise control system. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a hands-free system, which means that driver attentiveness remains crucial. The narrow gauge display, positioned toward the driver’s line of sight, proves particularly beneficial here, showing vital information regarding the car’s operation. While it does convey the necessary details effectively, a more traditional gauge style with rounded dials may enhance intuitiveness for some drivers.
The large Heads-Up Display is another feature that draws attention. It minimizes distractions by keeping essential driving information within the driver’s direct view, allowing for a safer driving experience. Looking ahead, it would be interesting to see how Hyundai expands the information displayed on this HUD in future updates, possibly including navigation cues or other real-time data.
Third-party Integration and Future Developments
A notable aspect of the Pleos Connect system is its capability to support third-party applications, paired with a Software Development Kit (SDK) for aspiring developers. This integration opens possibilities for a range of additional functionalities. For example, apps like YouTube are already in the works, although Hyundai has laid down specific guidelines regarding what apps can be included in the Pleos Connect store. Certain applications can only be accessed when the vehicle is stationary, ensuring safety during operation.
The Gleo AI assistant is touted as an ambitious part of the Pleos Connect experience, although my testing opportunity was limited due to its unavailability in English during my review. The potential of Gleo is intriguing; it promises to answer complex, context-aware questions and manage several vehicle functions—including adjusting the mirrors, controlling window positions, and modifying climate settings. Such capabilities could significantly enhance the seamlessness of the driving experience if executed well.
Final Thoughts
The Pleos Connect infotainment system represents a significant advancement for Hyundai, combining cutting-edge technology with practicality to enhance overall user experience. As it rolls out across Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles globally, this system could play a pivotal role in attracting tech-savvy buyers and retaining existing customers looking for modern conveniences. I eagerly anticipate further refinements, features, and the broader implications of this system as it evolves in future vehicle models.
For a deeper understanding of the driving experience with the Grandeur, feel free to check out my full video review.
