2011 Kia Sportage Earns AutoPacific 2011 "Vehicle Satisfaction Award"

Compact CUV Takes Top Honor in Compact Crossover SUV Category

- Kia CUV recognized by owners for delivering outstanding value and high levels of overall satisfaction

- 2011 Sportage pleases consumers with class-leading fuel economy (1), fun -to-drive performance, striking design, and comfort and convenience features



IRVINE, Calif., May 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2011 Kia Sportage has received numerous accolades since its launch and sales of the compact CUV have tripled since it hit showrooms last summer. Adding to its long list of awards, the 2011 Sportage has received an AutoPacific 2011 "Vehicle Satisfaction Award," based on positive feedback from Kia owners. Named the top vehicle in the Compact Crossover SUV category, Sportage scored 10-rating points higher than the second place product and received high marks from owners for delivering strong value and overall satisfaction in the category. The critically acclaimed 2011 Optima midsize sedan posted significant increases in positive owner feedback, ranking second in the Premium Mid-Size Car category while the Kia brand moved up twelve positions in the latest survey, one of the industry's largest increases.

"The 2011 Sportage has received overwhelmingly positive market feedback and attracted new consumers to the brand since it reached showrooms last year, thanks in large part to its unbeatable combination of world-class design, class-leading fuel efficiency, innovative technology features and long list of modern amenities," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America (KMA). "This latest award from AutoPacific not only highlights the brand's commitment to customer satisfaction, but underscores the fact that offering stylish, high-quality products at a compelling value and backed by an industry-leading warranty are factors that continue to resonate with consumers."

AutoPacific's study summarizes the results from more than 68,000 new vehicle owners to determine winners in each vehicle segment. The 2011 Sportage was selected for delivering value and high levels of satisfaction across 48 separate categories that objectively measure the ownership experience. In addition, the study helps consumers sort through the 262 car and truck nameplates presently available in the U.S. and make wise purchase decisions.

About the 2011 Kia Sportage

The 2011 Sportage CUV offers value-, image- and safety-conscious consumers increased levels of performance and efficiency, comfort and convenience, the latest in-vehicle technologies incorporated into all of Kia's latest new vehicles and an abundance of standard safety features. Retaining the functionality and versatility of the previous generation model, the 2011 Sportage also offers a sleek, modern and boldly styled package with new proportions and a completely new look. A "2010 Top Safety Pick" by IIHS, the all-new CUV received top ratings from IIHS for front, side, rollover and rear impact protection. The new Sportage SX features a powerful and efficient 2.0-liter, 260 horsepower Turbo GDI engine and unique exterior and interior features. Available in Base, LX, EX and SX trims, the 2011 Sportage features a starting MSRP of $18,295 (2).

Industry-Leading Warranty

The 2011 Sportage is covered by Kia's warranty program (3), which offers consumer protection at an exceptional value. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle coverage.

2011 Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia's model year 2011 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio sub-compact sedan, Rio5 sub-compact hatchback and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 730 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

About AutoPacific

AutoPacific is a future-oriented automotive marketing and product-consulting firm. Every year AutoPacific publishes a wide variety of syndicated studies on the automotive industry. The firm also conducts extensive proprietary research and consulting for auto manufacturers, distributors, marketers and suppliers worldwide. Company headquarters are in Tustin, California, with an affiliate office in the Detroit area.

Additional information can be found on AutoPacific's websites: www.autopacific.com and www.vehiclevoice.com.

(1) MPG claim for SX automatic transmission. EPA estimate for 2011 Sportage SX 2.0L Turbo GDI engine w/AT is 22 mpg/city and 27 mpg/hwy. Class-leading claim based on comparison to 2011 compact CUVs with turbocharged engines as of February 2011 of 2010 and available 2011 EPA city/hwy mpg estimates for compact CUVs with I4, turbocharged engines and V6 engines. Actual mileage may vary.

(2) Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $695 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

(3) All warranties are limited. See retailer for warranty details or go to kia.com.