KIA SPORTAGE RANKS HIGHEST AMONG SMALL SUVS IN 2015

 

Top Honor Reinforces Brand’s Continued Commitment to Craftsmanship

Dynamic and capable crossover earns Kia’s first-ever Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) award

Sportage’s VDS award follows two consecutive Initial Quality Study (IQS) awards for the model in 2013 and 2014

IRVINE, Calif., February 26, 2015 – J.D. Power 2015 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) has ranked the Kia Sportage as the leader in the Small SUV category, marking the first-ever VDS award in the brand’s history.  The industry-wide study examines problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year old vehicles (2012 model year).  Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100).  Thus, a lower score reflects a higher long-term quality level.  The Sportage ranked first in a field of seven contenders with a score of 129 PP100.  This latest recognition for Sportage follows the model’s two consecutive J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey (IQS) awards in 2013 and 2014.

“We believe the results of the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study demonstrate Kia’s on-going commitment to quality and obsession with craftsmanship in building our world-class products,” said John Crowe, vice president, service & aftersale operations, Kia Motors America (KMA).  “The Sportage is a clear example of how far the entire Kia model line-up has progressed, and this kind of quality is tangible evidence of our long-term strategy to enhance the Kia ownership experience.”

VDS measures the long-term quality of vehicles, including new technologies and features currently available to buyers.  It includes 32 nameplates and 228 models, covering 177 specific problem symptoms grouped into eight major vehicle categories.

About the 2015 Sportage

Starting with the LX trim, Sportage offers numerous standard features, including 17-inch alloy wheels matched with 225/60R17 low-rolling-resistance silica tires, body-color door handles, Bluetooth®1 Wireless Technology Hands-Free Connectivity, solar glass, privacy glass, keyless entry with folding key and a six-speed electronically controlled Sportmatic® automatic transmission. The popularly equipped EX trim offers stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55R18 tires, LED turn signals on the outside mirrors, a rear camera display and backup warning system,2 high-performance dampers, roof rails, a rear spoiler, fog lamps and chrome body trim and door handles. The top-of-the-line Sportage SX adds a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI engine producing 260-horsepower, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, sculpted side sill moldings, LED accent lighting along the headlamps for a sportier, more upscale appearance and a unique SX grille.

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