Kia America closed August with record-breaking retail sales, exceeding any other month in the company’s history. The surge in sales was driven by the brand’s commitment to electrification, evident in the remarkable performance of its electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The introduction of the all-electric 3-row EV9 SUV significantly boosted EV sales, leading to a 27% increase year-over-year. Simultaneously, PHEV models experienced a 43% increase over the same period, culminating in a 9% overall growth in sales of Kia’s electrified models compared to August 2023. This performance reinforces Kia’s leadership position as the automotive industry transitions toward electrification.
Furthermore, Kia’s SUV models continued to enjoy strong popularity, posting a 9% gain in sales. This underscores the enduring demand for Kia’s versatile utility vehicles. Kia America’s August sales totaled 75,217 units, representing the company’s best August sales ever. SUVs accounted for 75% of the total sales, while electrified models contributed 18%.
Four specific Kia models – Seltos (+30%), Sportage (+23%), Telluride (+5%), and Forte (+13%) – set new best-ever August sales records, further contributing to the brand’s overall record-breaking sales performance.
Eric Watson, vice president of sales operations at Kia America, attributed the record-breaking sales to effective inventory management, proactive marketing and sales strategies, and the ongoing popularity of Kia’s SUVs and electric vehicles. Watson also expressed optimism about the remainder of the year, citing the increased availability of the refreshed K5 and the upcoming introduction of the Carnival hybrid and the all-new K4 sedan.
Beyond the strong sales figures, Kia America also announced several significant achievements, including:
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J.D. Power 2024 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study:
Kia America received the highest number of awards by a single brand, with five Kia models taking top honors in their respective segments. The K5 was named the highest-ranked Midsize Car for the fourth consecutive year, while the all-electric EV6 (Compact SUV) and Carnival (Minivan) topped their respective segments for the third time each. The Forte was recognized as the highest-ranked Compact Car for the second year in a row, and the EV9, in its first year on sale, earned its first category award (Upper Midsize SUV).*
Newsweek Autos Awards:
Kia America earned eight honors in the 2024 Newsweek Autos Awards. Individual vehicle awards included:* Best Vehicle for Commuters: Kia Sportage
* Top Pick for Tomorrow Seekers: Kia EV9
* Top Pick for Suburbanites: Kia EV9
* Top Pick for Urbanities: Kia Seltos
* Top Pick for Empty Nesters: Kia Sorento
* Top Pick for Empty Nesters: Kia Carnival
* Top Pick for First-Time Car Buyers: Kia Seltos
* Top Pick for Commuters: Kia Niro.
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Rebelle Rally:
Kia will return for the ninth annual Rebelle Rally, marking its fifth consecutive year of participation in the challenging navigational challenge. A custom student-designed wrap will adorn the modified Telluride X-Pro SUV when the Rally takes place this Fall.These achievements highlight Kia’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, and position the brand for continued success in the evolving automotive landscape.
