Added on June 22, 2018  The News Wheel   , , , , , , ,
No Comments

Kia Earns Fourth Year Nod as JD Power’s Initial Quality Study Highest Ranked Mass Market Brand

Decrease Font Size Increase Font Size Text Size Print This Page

2018 Kia Sorento

With a reported score of 72 problems per 100 vehicles, Kia Motors has snagged the title as the highest ranked non-premium brand by the study that sets automotive standards, J.D. Power’s 2018 Initial Quality Study. This is the fourth year in a row that Kia has risen to the top.

Learn More: Soul and Sorento win Best Cars for the Money awards

“Ranking number one among all mass market brands for four consecutive years leaves no doubt as to the world-class quality and craftsmanship instilled in every car and SUV that Kia builds,” said Michael Cole, chief operating officer and EVP, Kia Motors America.

2018 Kia Rio

The Rio took home top honors in the small car category, and the Sorento earned distinction in the midsize SUV category. Snagging second place were the Sportage (small SUV), Optima (midsize car), and Sedona (minivan). Rounding out the top three in the category of compact car was the Forte.

“With two segment winners and four additional models finishing in the top three of their respective segments, the evidence of Kia’s progression and focus on the ownership experience is overwhelming,” added Cole.

Approximately 75,712 responses about a vehicle’s performance and overall quality were evaluated to comprise the data in the IQS. A total of 240 vehicles were analyzed in this year’s study.

Learn How: To correct bad driving habits

The 2018 Kia Sorento is available at seven trim levels and features a choice of three engines. The 2018 Kia Rio is available at three levels, and each trim is equipped with a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine that earns a horsepower rating of 130. The 2018 Kia Sportage is available at three trim levels and features an available 2.0-liter turbocharged DOHC four-cylinder engine with Gasoline Direct Injection and Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing paired to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®, which generates 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque (FWD). The 2018 Kia Optima is available at five trim levels and features a choice of three engines. The 2018 Sedona is available at five trim levels, and each trim is equipped with a 276-horsepower rated 3.3-liter V6. The 2018 Kia Forte is available at three trim levels and features available driver assist technologies such as Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.