Fast-Growing Korean Automaker is First Non-Premium Brand to Top the Initial Quality Study Rankings in 27 Years
- Kia owners report fewer issues with their vehicles within the first 90 days of ownership than all other car and truck brands in the U.S.
- Sportage (Small SUV) and Soul (Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle) recognized as best-in-segment; three additional models ranked among the top three in their respective categories
MISSISSAUGA, ON, June 23, 2016 /CNW/ - Having transformed into an industry leader in design, quality and technology, Kia Motors reached historic new heights today when J.D. Power recognized the brand as the highest scoring nameplate in its 2016 Initial Quality Study (IQS) out of all 33 makes in the U.S. Marking the first time in 27 years that a non-premium brand has topped the rankings, Kia's rise to the top was driven by segment-leading performances from the Sportage and Soul, while Rio, Forte and Sorento all ranked in the top three of their respective categories.
"Reflecting the voice of our customers, this year's JD Power IQS report is a true testament that Kia Motors builds world class vehicles of benchmark quality." said Ted Lancaster, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Kia Canada Inc. "Our long-term global strategy to concentrate on quality, brand building and ownership experience continues to pay dividends. We encourage Canadians to come see why we have earned this recognition from JD Power."
After entering the overall top 10 for the first time in 2013, Kia placed second in the industry and led all non-premium makes in IQS in 2015.
Now in its 30th year, the annual J.D. Power IQS analyzes responses from vehicle owners in 26 segments. IQS is determined by vehicle owners evaluating the driving experience, engine and transmission performance, and a broad range of quality-related problems within the first 90 days of ownership.
About Kia Canada
Kia Canada Inc. (www.kia.ca – www.facebook.com/kiacanada) a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart is a subsidiary of Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) which was founded in 1999 and sells and services high quality, class leading vehicles like the Soul, Forte, Optima and Sorento through a network of 190 dealers nationwide. Kia Canada Inc. employs 149 people in its Mississauga, Ontario headquarters and four regional offices across Canada, with an all-new state-of-the-art facility in Montreal. Kia's brand slogan "The Power to Surprise" represents the company's global commitment to surprise the world by providing exciting & inspiring experiences that go beyond expectations.
SOURCE KIA Canada Inc.
John Adzija, National Manager, Corporate Communications & Corporate Partnerships, Kia Canada Inc., T: 905-755-6266, C: 905-301-6207, E: [email protected]; Maxime Surette, Product Communications Manager, Kia Canada Inc., T: 905-755-6272, C: 416-316-3313, E: [email protected]
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