SEOUL (Reuters) – South Korean carmaker Kia Motors said on Friday that it expected to exceed this year’s sales target of 2.71 million vehicles, after posting better-than-expected sales in the first quarter driven by the United States, Europe and China.
Joo Woo-jeong, head of Kia’s Financial Management Group, also told analysts that it expected to launch the K3 – a fully revamped version of its popular compact Forte – around September.
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Germany´s top car makers are riding high with their international reputation for powerful and reliable cars, which are selling well in China. And in Europe, homegrown producers may face competition from Korean brands Hyundai and Kia.
With 2009 about to end, there’s a lot of Cars of the Year awards coming out of the woodwork. Although there are some organizations that stand out to provide a good quality choosing of the winner, and one of them is NADAguides. According to them the Car of the Year goes to the 2010 Kia Forte/Forte Koup. It won the August 2009 Car of the month and it’s won the whole year now.
“Our editorial team realized the moment we got behind the wheel of the Forte that it would be a top contender for our NADAguides.com Car of the Year, but it wasn’t until we extensively drove the sporty four-door sedan and the two-door coupe that it solidified our decision,” said Michael Caudill, NADAguides.com auto expert and spokesperson. “2009 marked many great new entries in the auto industry. With cars like the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Mercedes-Benz E350 and Nissan 370Z Roadster coming in closely behind the Kia Forte, it made our decision difficult, but when you add up the low price point, Best in Class features, and a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, it made our decision to award the Forte much easier.”
As to why they chose it, they were simply blown away with its money saving and safety features.
“The Fuel Economy Package (available with the EX trim only) adds even more unique elements: electronic power steering, a smart alternator, low rolling resistance tires and aerodynamic improvements to achieve 27 city/36 hwy mpg. What does that ultimately mean for the driver? Fewer trips to the pump, and more money in your pocket!
The safety features on the Forte are evident not only with its 4 dual front, side and full-curtain airbags, but also with the 4 wheel anti-lock braking system and electronic stability control.”
