Kia Canada posts record sales in 2008

Korean carmaker Kia Motors sold 37,520 vehicles on Canadian market in 2008, representing a year-on-year increase of 7.8 percent and the best result in the company’s history, Kia Canada reported a few days ago.

Higher fuel prices contributed to increased sales for the compact and fuel efficient Rio, achieving 34.6% increase in sales over 2007 volume, and a 42.6% increase for the month of December.

Also showing strong growth in 2008 was the popular Rondo urban utility vehicle, achieving a 29% increase over 2007 sales, and the Sedona minivan achieved an increase of 14% in sales for the year as well.

In addition, Kia Canada also increased it’s market share to 2,3 percent from previous year to tie up with the European brand VW, which also holds the same share of Canadian car market on it’s hands.

Kia realizes that the upcoming months will be challenging and difficult economic conditions will be affect car sales, but the company is confident about it’s future and plans to achieve another, already the sixth, year of growth.

A lot of hopes are placed in the new models, such as an exciting Soul urban crossover and next generation Spectra compact sedan. Attractive design, affordable pricing and impressive 5 year powertrain/5 year bumper to bumper warranty are expected to move these new cars from dealer’s lots pretty quickly and should help Kia achieving another record year in Canada.