Discover Kia in Kansas City

 

Discover KIA at Premier Auto Outlet

KIA has developed a solid reputation and become a worthy competitor for the biggest names in automotive manufacturing. Originating from South Korea, KIA is now part of the Hyundai Motor Company with growth around the world. 

The History of KIA

Founded in 1944, KIA was organized as Kyungsung Precision Industry as a manufacturer of bicycle parts and steel tubing. The company's name was changed in 1951 to KIA Industries. In just six years, KIA had moved from bicycles to automobiles. The first motorcycle debuted under the KIA name in 1957. The company also began manufacturing trucks with Mazda in 1962 and cars in 1974.

KIA stopped building cars when Chun Doo-hwan came into control in South Korea in 1981. The company focused on light-duty trucks for several years until it joined Ford. The two companies worked together to build Mazda-style cars for domestic and international sales.

It took several more years before KIA turned its attention to the United States. In 1992, the company set up four dealerships, all based out of Portland, Oregon. The Sephia was the first model sold in the US with the Sportage compact SUV being the second model to be introduced. Within three years, KIA had grown to over 100 dealerships in the US.

KIA experienced some challenges in the 1990s, just like the other auto manufacturers. In 1997, KIA declared bankruptcy but gained new life when Hyundai and KIA exchanged ownership with each taking interest in the other's company. KIA began expanding its line in the US and seeing growth and recognition.

KIA Today

KIA has continued to thrive and grow throughout the United States. The brand is well-recognized for safety and value with an outstanding warranty that rivals most other manufacturers. Today's lineup includes sedans, SUVs of all sizes, and an MPV with the Carnival.

The KIA Sportage continues to be popular with buyers because of its compact size and efficient performance. It's the perfect compromise between a sedan and a full-size sport utility vehicle. The Sorento is a mid-size SUV with more capability and cargo room. For the active family, the newer Telluride is an ideal mix of features and value.

The KIA Stinger adds a sporty touch while the KIA Soul and KIA Rio continue to be well-liked by buyers for their compact efficiency. As alternative models become the norm, KIA won't be left behind. The brand includes a hybrid version of many of its popular models. The Niro EV is all electric along with the EV6 crossover. Niro also makes a plug-in hybrid and gasoline model to suit a wide range of buyers. Both Sorento and Sportage offer hybrid versions while the Sorento also features a plug-in version.

If you like what the KIA brand has to offer, you'll want to check out some spectacular models at Premier Auto Outlet. Many of them may still be under KIA's lengthy 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. Stop by to find your next ride for your travels around Kansas City, Overland Park, and Topeka.