Kia America has emerged as the leader in the 2024 J.D. Power Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, securing an unprecedented five model-level wins. This achievement marks the highest number of awards received by a single brand in this year’s study, further solidifying Kia’s reputation for excellence in the automotive industry. In addition to this remarkable feat, Kia has also been recognized as the third highest-ranking brand among Mass Market competitors, demonstrating its consistent appeal and performance across various segments.
Kia Models Shine in the 2024 APEAL Study
Kia America dominance in the 2024 APEAL Study is highlighted by the success of several of its models across different categories:
• Kia K5: For the fourth consecutive year, the Kia K5 has been recognized as the highest-ranked Midsize Car. This consistent recognition underscores the K5’s exceptional design, performance, and overall appeal among consumers.
• Kia EV6: The all-electric Kia EV6 continues to impress, earning the top spot in the Compact SUV segment for the third year in a row. This accolade reflects the growing excitement and satisfaction among consumers for electric vehicles (EVs), particularly from legacy automakers like Kia.
• Kia Carnival: Also securing its third consecutive award, the Kia Carnival stands out as the leading Minivan, offering unparalleled versatility and comfort for families and larger groups.
• Kia EV9: Making a significant impact in its debut year, the Kia EV9 has earned its first segment award in the Upper Midsize SUV category. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it highlights Kia’s ability to meet and exceed customer expectations with new and innovative models, especially in the highly competitive electric vehicle market.
• Kia Forte: Rounding out Kia’s impressive list of winners, the Kia Forte has been named the highest-ranked Compact Car for the second consecutive year. The Forte’s consistent performance in this category showcases its strong appeal among compact car buyers.
A Testament to Kia’s Commitment to Customer Satisfaction
Steven Center, COO & EVP of Kia America, expressed his excitement about the brand’s outstanding performance in this year’s APEAL Study. “We are thrilled to stand out in this year’s J.D. Power APEAL Study with the most segment-leading winners, particularly with the K5, EV6, Forte, and Carnival earning consecutive awards,” said Center. “Moreover, the recognition of the EV9 in its debut year highlights our commitment to understanding and responding to our customers’ needs across various vehicle segments – be it a Compact Car, SUV, or all-electric vehicle.”
About the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. APEAL Study
The J.D. Power 2024 U.S. APEAL Study provides valuable insights into the satisfaction levels of new vehicle owners. Based on responses from 84,569 owners of 2024 model-year vehicles, the study evaluates owners’ experiences after 90 days of ownership. The data, collected from July 2023 through May 2024, reflects the performance, design, and overall appeal of vehicles registered from April 2023 through February 2024.
Conclusion
Kia America’s exceptional performance in the 2024 J.D. Power APEAL Study is a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to delivering vehicles that resonate with consumers across multiple segments. With a strong lineup of award-winning models, Kia continues to set new benchmarks in the automotive industry, reinforcing its position as a leader in both traditional and electric vehicle markets. As the brand looks to the future, its focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront, promising even more exciting developments in the years to come.
