2013 looks to bring a whole new level of connectivity to the automotive world, as both cars and their drivers seek to stay on the cutting edge of today’s technology. And perhaps the most advanced comes from Volvo, who has partnered with Ericsson to create the ultimate infotainment system.

Dubbed the Connected Vehicle Cloud, Ericsson’s cloud based storage service offers new levels of connectivity with streaming entertainment apps, vehicle status, and service booking downloadable between various devices, including the in-car info screen. No word on which models will initiate this service, but Volvo claims they will begin prepping the technology for consumer use soon.

More certain is Kia’s UVO infotainment system, now in its second generation. Debuting in the 2014 Sorento, a new “eServices” suite provides navigation functions through Google Maps and Google Places, as well as the Parking Minder vehicle location service, and Car Care Web diagnostics information. All are accessible through a free smartphone app-which allows users to send route destinations, schedule maintenance, and locate their vehicles from their iPhone or Android devices.  

And lastly, Chevy’s MyLink system will see some welcomed upgrades. Available later this year will be full integration with Siri, the iPhone’s voice-activated assistance software, with an “Eyes Free Mode” that can access the music library, contacts, calendar, and messages of compatible iPhones.

And BringGo, the smartphone navigation app announced last year, will finally hit the virtual shelves, allowing 3D maps, Google search, live traffic reports, and downloadable routes to be sent to the vehicle thorough mobile devices, all for a one time purchase fee of about $50.