After reaching all-time sales and market share highs in 2011, Kia Motors America’s (KMA) steep upward trajectory continued in the first month of 2012 with record January sales of 35,517 units, a 27.8-percent increase over the same period in 2011, and the brand’s 17th straight monthly sales record. With popular vehicles such as the U.S.-built Optima midsize sedan and Soul urban passenger vehicle, which led January sales with 8,814 and 8,091 units sold, Kia continues to be one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.
“Following a year of impressive milestones and historic firsts, including the completion of the most aggressive new product launch cycle in the industry with nine vehicles in less than three yearsand the $100 million expansion of Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), Kia is well positioned for future growth as we further our efforts to increase brand visibility and awareness,” said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. “With several high-profile marketing initiatives on the horizon and the arrival of fuel efficient products such as the Rio 5-door and sedan that offer class-leading horsepower and deliver up to 40 miles per gallon, Kia will continue to attract new customers to our showrooms by offering high-quality cars and CUVs with world-class design, cutting edge technologies and fun-to-drive performance.”
MONTH OF JANUARY | YEAR-TO-DATE | |||
Model | 2012 | 2011 | 2012 | 2011 |
Rio | 2,596 | 963 | 2,596 | 963 |
Forte | 4,417 | 5,330 | 4,417 | 5,330 |
Optima | 8,814 | 3,819 | 8,814 | 3,819 |
Amanti | – | 1 | – | 1 |
Sportage | 2,835 | 3,024 | 2,835 | 3,024 |
Sorento | 7,322 | 8,116 | 7,322 | 8,116 |
Sedona | 1,442 | 1,066 | 1,442 | 1,066 |
Rondo | – | 24 | – | 24 |
Borrego | – | 101 | – | 101 |
Soul | 8,091 | 5,345 | 8,091 | 5,345 |
Total | 35,517 | 27,789 | 35,517 | 27,789 |