All New Kia Sportage CUV base model leads industry for 36-month Residual Value Index

Kia Motors’ 2011 all-new Sportage compact utility vehicle leads the compact CUV segment for residual value ratings from ALG, the industry benchmark in the US for residual values and a leading provider of data and consulting services to the automotive industry.  The notable rating of 61% of original manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for 36 months of ownership is a full 20 points higher than the current model year residual, and Kia Motors’ highest ever rating from ALG.  Kia, along with BMW and Subaru, achieved the industry’s highest individual rankings with a mark of 66 for the Sportage Base trim.

“Kia Motors’ design-led transformation is driving more and more buyers to Kia dealerships for popular new models like Soul, Forte (known as ‘Cerato’ in some  markets), Sorento and soon the new Sportage, as evidenced by our best-ever first half year sales,” said Tom Loveless, Vice President, Sales, Kia Motors America (KMA).  “The best ALG rating for the Kia brand and for Sportage strengthens the Kia value proposition and consumer confidence by providing higher resale value and great leasing options that benefit the buyer.”

Unveiled globally at the Geneva International Motor Show earlier this year, the all-new Kia Sportage adds world-class design and cutting-edge technologies to an already successful value-packed CUV equation.  A sleek, modern and bold style with new proportions and a completely new look for the venerable Sportage help elevate the Kia brand further as a world design leader and true tier-one automotive nameplate.
 
New to this model year, Sportage offers more power (176 hp) and improved fuel economy along with the options of a panoramic sunroof, push-button start, rear camera display, navigation, LED daytime running lights and an air-cooled driver’s seat (a compact CUV segment first).  In the US, the UVO powered by Microsoft®  in-vehicle communication and entertainment system based on the Windows Embedded Automotive platform will also be available in late 2010.  

Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand’s continued gains in global market share.  With five new and upgraded vehicle introductions and several other key initiatives planned for 2010, Kia is poised to continue its momentum and build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technology.