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ISSUE 144 - JANUARY 2012

GEORGIA GOVERNOR NATHAN DEAL MAKES FIRST OFFICIAL VISIT TO KMMG
Georgia Governor Nathan Deal made his first official visit to Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) on Jan. 18. During the visit, President Ahn led the governor on a tour of KMMG and explained the plant's commitment to delivering world-class vehicle quality. The tour included a look at KMMG's recently completed $100 million expansion that will increase the plant's capacity to 360,000 vehicles this year. President Ahn also highlighted that in 2011 more than 1,000 new team members were hired to support the increased volume and that KMMG, along with local suppliers, has created more than 10,000 jobs in the area. "Kia's manufacturing plant in West Point is a tremendous success story and a glowing example of Georgia's commitment to supporting industry for growth," said Deal. "Kia has continued to invest in Georgia and I have seen first-hand the positive impact KMMG has delivered to this region."

KIA MOTORS AMERICA RENEWS NBA TEAM PARTNERSHIPS AND ESTABLISHES NEW
RELATIONSHIP WITH GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
 Kia Motors America (KMA) recently added to its portfolio of National Basketball Association (NBA) team partnerships by becoming the "Official Vehicle of the Golden State Warriors." KMA also renewed relationships with the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Miami HEAT, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando Magic and Portland Trail Blazers remain on Kia Motors' roster in 2011-2012 as part of multi-year agreements. Kia is in its fifth year as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA, which is the brand's largest U.S. sports-marketing initiative. In addition, Kia serves as the Official Automotive Partner of NBA All-Star, title partner of the Kia NBA Performance Awards, an Official Automotive Partner of NBA Cares as well as the title sponsor of ESPN's "Kia NBA Countdown."

FAMA'S MUJERES AL VOLANTE NAMES RIO 5-DOOR "SUB-COMPACT CAR OF THE YEAR"
The all-new 2012 Rio 5-door was named one of the top five cars of the year by FAMA's "Mujeres Al Volante." The Rio 5-door was recognized for its long list of standard safety features, modern amenities, outstanding fuel economy, strong family appeal and world-class design. FAMA is a leading modern lifestyle magazine in Spanish, and the Mujeres Al Volante awards honor vehicles that meet the priorities of U.S. Hispanic women when considering a new vehicle. "The Rio 5-door has exceeded our expectations, and we think it's in the top of its class when it comes to appealing to Hispanic women," said Ileana Muniz, editor-in-chief of FAMA's Autos Mujeres Al Volante. "On top of its outstanding design, the Rio 5-door handles well and is environmentally friendly with 40 MPG1 and ISG technology."

KIA RACING KOUPS CAPTURE FIRST-EVER GRAND-AM POLE POSITION
Capturing Kia's first-ever GRAND-AM pole and second place qualifying positions, respectively, the No. 10 and No. 12 Infinity Audio Forte Koups set the pace for today's exciting Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge (CTSCC) season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway. Andy Lally set a new Street Tuner class qualifying lap record in the No. 10 Koup to claim the pole position while Mark Pombo, in the No. 12 Koup, posted the second-fastest lap, making it an all-Kia front row for the starting grid. With new driver pairings as well as a new red and white exterior paint scheme conceived by Kia's California Design Center, the Forte Koups are starting the 2012 season off in fine style. 2011 CTSCC Street Tuner Drivers Champion Nic Jönsson reunited with former co-driver and NASCAR 2011 Sunoco Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year Lally in the No. 10 Koup during Thursday's qualifying session. Lally played a critical role in Kia's 2010 "development year" and helped Kia earn its first-ever GRAND-AM podium finish last season at Daytona. In addition, decorated brothers Mark and Mathew Pombo join the third-year program to pilot the No. 12 Koup and strengthen Kia's chase for its first-ever manufacturers championship. The Koups anchor Kia's expanded motorsports activities in 2012, which will include two turbocharged Optimas racing in the Pirelli World Challenge and the all-new Rio 5-door competing in B-Spec events. The 2.5-hour CTSCC race kicks off at 10:30 a.m. PT/1:30 p.m. ET, and the Koups will race on the famed 3.6-mile, 12-turn Daytona road course. Visit the Kia Racing Facebook Page (facebook.com/kiaracing) for live updates from the track or visit http://grand-am.com for live lap charts. The race will air on Feb. 4 at 9 a.m. PT/noon ET on SPEED so be sure to tune in to catch the action.


JIM SIPALA KIA AWARDS SORENTO LEASE TO ONE LUCKY FAMILY
Jim Sipala Kia awarded one lucky family a one-year lease of a 2012 Sorento and $1,000 shopping spree as part of its Craaazy Christmas promotion and ongoing support of the community. Listeners from WMGK, The Fanatic and BEN-FM were asked to nominate a family that continues to give back to the community despite falling on hard times. Listeners submitted more than 130 heartfelt stories. The Vogel family was selected for their commitment to the community through donating toys and books in their late daughter's name as well as their dedication to raising awareness for childhood cancer.




ISSUE 143 - JANUARY 2012

KIA ACHIEVES BEST-EVER FULL-YEAR SALES AND MARKET SHARE IN 2011
Kia Motors America (KMA) recorded December sales of 43,390 units sold, a 42.5-percent increase over 2010, which helped the brand achieve its best-ever full-year sales of 485,492 vehicles sold. December's record sales mark the company's 16th straight monthly sales record and contributed to 2011's 36.3-percent sales increase over 2010, which far outpaced the industry. In 2011, Soul also became KMA's second vehicle to exceed sales of 100,000 units in a single year. Kia's U.S.-built1 products - Optima and Sorento - continue to lead the brand's sales, with Optima topping the company's sales chart in December for the first time since its introduction in late 2010. Kia's U.S. market share has risen for 17 straight years, including a 78-percent increase since 2008 to 3.8-percent for 2011.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA UNVEILS UVO E-SERVICES AND SHOWCASES FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES AT CES
UVO eServices2, Kia's second-generation infotainment system, builds on an award-winning foundation with the addition of new smartphone-based connectivity. A free smartphone app supporting UVO eServices will provide new levels of connected car experiences, including telematics, parked vehicle locator and advanced vehicle relationship management. In addition, UVO eServices incorporates a suite of new security features such as crash notification assistance, roadside assistance, curfew limit and speed alert. KMA also introduced the In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) concept, which demonstrates Kia's forward-thinking technology and concepts in the realm of connected car. The all-new concept is intended to deliver augmented reality navigation, media playback and networked computer functions all from a single unit. IVI is designed to be the hub of a vehicle's information and entertainment systems, and represents a glimpse into future systems. Kia also provided show goers a glimpse into the company's plans for future electric vehicles as the Ray production Electric Vehicle (EV) and Naimo EV concept car were displayed in North America for the first time. Both vehicles feature advanced lithium polymer battery packs, and the Naimo introduced an all-new groundbreaking User Centered Driving (UCD) telematics concept which previews future possibilities in, safety, media and entertainment in-vehicle technologies.

Kia Ray Electric Vehicle Launched in December, the all-new Ray is the first EV in the world assembled on the same production lines as its regular combustion-engine sibling, and is built exclusively for the domestic Korean market. The Ray EV features a unique instrument cluster, displaying electric motor operation, battery status and distance to recharge. It also is equipped with the first-ever EV-specific navigation system that features a seven-inch screen and provides crucial information for EV drivers such as the nearest locations of slow/fast recharging stations. The display shows the recharging stations in the area in which the vehicle can travel with its current level of battery power.

Kia Naimo Electric Vehicle Concept Taking its name from the Korean word "Ne-mo", (pronounced "Neh-mo," meaning "square shape"), the Naimo EV concept was conceived by Kia's international design team in Seoul and is characterized principally by its simple lines and solid, muscular stance. The third electric vehicle design to be unveiled by Kia Motors Corporation in a year, the 153.5-inch long Naimo concept explores the possibility of introducing a zero-emissions, five-door, four-seater city car into future markets. Innovative technology features can be found throughout the vehicle. Naimo has no traditional wiper blade on the windscreen - instead employing a high-intensity air jet at the base of the windscreen that performs an "air wiper" function. Conventional door mirrors have also been replaced with miniature cameras installed in the A-pillars.

KIA HONORED BY INDUSTRY PUBLICATIONS
Kia's vehicles continue to impress both consumers and industry analysts alike for their stand-out styling, fuel efficiency, and value. Meanwhile, Kia's marketing is collecting honors as well. Optima recently was named to the Boston Globe's Top Ten Drives list, New York Times' journalist James G. Cobb's Top 10 of 2011 list and named Autobtel's 2012 Sedan of the Year. Meanwhile, Vehix recommended four Kia vehicles in its buying guide - Sedan Under $30,000 (Optima), Fuel-Efficient Cars Under $30,000 (Optima Hybrid), Hatchback Under $20,000 (Rio 5-door) and Wagon Under $30,000 (Soul). Sorento was recognized as Iguida's Best Fuel-Efficient SUV of 2012, while Sportage was named Iguida's Best Inexpensive SUV of 2012. In addition, Kia's Share Some Soul campaign, which recently surpassed 12 million YouTube views, was named one of TBS's Commercial of 2011, named to TheCarConnection.com's 15 Best Car Commercials of 2011 list and Skidd Mark's Top 10 Automotive Social Video Campaigns of 2011 list.

KIA MOTORS' SOUTHERN REGION SPONSORS TWO 2011 BOWL GAMES
Kia Motors' southern region served as the Official Automotive Sponsor of the 2011 Outback Bowl between Georgia and Michigan State. Fans were exposed to the Kia brand through vehicle displays and Kia branding during the game, parade and beach day. With a 7.05 national TV rating on ABC, the Outback Bowl was the highest rated college football game on ABC this year and the highest rated non-BCS Bowl in three years.

BOWL GAMES CONTINUED
The region also served as the Official Automotive Sponsor of the Chick-fil-A Bowl, between Auburn and Virginia. The game ball was delivered in a 2012 Sorento by Percy Vaughn, director of regional operations for KMA's southern region, while the Chick-fil-A Bowl Truett Cathy Trophy was presented by Ashley Lord, retail marketing manager for KMA's southern region. Fans were also exposed to the Kia brand prior to the game during Fan Fest, which featured football themed Kia branded giveaway items.

KIA MOTORS' CENTRAL REGION ADOPTS HORIZONS FOR YOUTH FAMILIES FOR THE HOLIDAYS
 Kia Motors' central region team members recently hosted a charity collection to help make Horizons for Youth family's holiday a little brighter. Horizons for Youth provides at risk children with volunteer mentors and exposes them to cultural and civic experiences they might not otherwise have.



ISSUE 142 - DECEMBER 2011

PRESIDENT AHN HONORED WITH BRONZE TOWER ORDER
Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of Kia Motors America (KMA) and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), was honored with the very prestigious Bronze Tower Order from Korea's President Myung-Bak Lee on December 12 in Seoul, Korea. The Bronze Tower Order is one the highest honors bestowed upon individuals that have made the most significant impact on Korea's trade and exports. President Ahn was recognized for helping KMA become one of the fastest-growing brands in the US, which has contributed to an increase in Korea's exports. Korea recently became one of nine countries to log more than $1 trillion in annual trade. President Lee, in his bi-weekly radio address said, "Trade has been the driving force behind Korea's economic miracle as well as the source of income and jobs."

KIA ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN FEATURING MUSIC-LOVING HAMSTERS NAMED TO MASHABLE'S "
10 MOST INNOVATIVE VIRAL VIDEO ADS OF 2011" LIST
Kia's "Share Some Soul" advertising campaign, featuring the company's music-loving hamsters, recently was named to Mashable's "10 Most Innovative Viral Video Ads of 2011" list. The "Share Some Soul" campaign has eclipsed more than 10.4 million YouTube views, and was selected for its innovative use of pop culture and connection with consumers.

2012 KIA SOUL AND FORTE KOUP NAMED TO MSN AUTOS' "10 GREAT CARS FOR LESS THAN $20,000" LIST
The 2012 Soul and Forte Koup recently were named to MSN Autos' "10 Great Cars for Less Than $20,000" list, with Kia being the only brand to have two vehicles selected. Kia's funky Soul was recognized for its low starting price and roomy interior space while the Forte Koup was praised for its performance. Both vehicles also were praised for their exceptional value and stand-out designs. MSN Autos compared a number of new vehicles available in the market today to provide consumers with a list of products that provide the best value for their money. Vehicles were evaluated on standard amenities, design and functionality.

KIA GT NAMED TO CAR AND DRIVER'S "10BEST CONCEPT CARS" LIST
Car and Driver magazine recently named the Kia GT to its "10Best Concept Cars" list, which recognizes the most stunning, bizarre, or just plain cool concepts from the past auto-show season. Car and Driver notes the GT "reliably leads designers to some of the most alluring shapes on the road."

KIA RIO 5-DOOR NAMED TO VROOMGIRLS.COM'S FIRST-EVER "VROOMIES BEST CARS OF THE YEAR" AWARDS LIST
The 2012 Rio 5-door has been honored as "Best Hatchback" by Vroomgirls.com, as part of the website's first annual "Vroomies Best Cars of the Year" awards. The Vroomie winners are recognized as representing the best of what new-car shoppers should consider during their purchase process. The Rio 5-door was praised for its appealing combination of sporty performance, outstanding interior room, eye-catching design and class-leading hihway fuel economy1. The editors of Vroomgirls.com complimented the Rio 5-door by stating, "honestly, what more could any driver want?"

KIA MOTORS' NEW 1.6-LITER GASOLINE DIRECT INJECTION ENGINE NAMED TO WARD'S
"2012 10 BEST ENGINES" LIST
Kia's new 1.6-liter four-cylinder Gamma engine has been honored as one of Ward's "2012 10 Best Engines." The editors of Ward'sAuto recognized the engine's combination of performance and fuel efficiency with a class-leading 138 horsepower2 while maintaining class-leading fuel economy of 30/40 mpg3 (city/highway) in the Rio 5-door and sedan. The flexibility of the 1.6-liter is demonstrated by the availability of the fuel-saving Idle Stop and Go (ISG) technology, which turns off the engine when the vehicle is not in motion, such as at a stop light or in traffic.

KIA MOTORS' SOUTHERN REGION SPONSORS SEC FAN FARE
 Kia Motors' southern region recently served as a sponsor of SEC Fan Fare at the Georgia World Congress Center. More than 35,000 LSU and Georgia fans were exposed to the Kia brand through running footage from KMMG and Kia's latest commercials. Fans also had the opportunity to have their picture taken with Kia vehicles in the background as well as register to win $100 gift cards. In addition, as part of the region's sponsorship, sports radio 790 The Zone broadcast from Kia's display.

KIA DEMONSTRATES GLOBALITY MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY
 Kia continues to demonstrate its Globality management philosophy though its support of higher education and families in need this holiday season. The principle encourages the company to practice the virtue of sharing by taking the initiative in social responsibility and community outreach campaigns. Kia recently donated $25,000 in scholarship funds to the UC Irvine Foundation, which were awarded to women's basketball player Cheyenne Cathey, a junior majoring in Business Economics. Meanwhile, Kia Motors' eastern region recently worked to make local families' holiday season a little brighter by participating in the Salvation Army's Angel Tree program. The region collected clothes and toys for children in need. In addition, employees at Kia's corporate headquarters collected gifts for Illumination Foundation, which helps families in transition break the cycle of homelessness. Thank you to everyone who helped make another family's holiday season a little brighter.

ACTRESS LAKE BELL NAMES OPTIMA HYBRID MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED
In the Hollywood Reporter's recent Los Angeles Auto Show round-up on the best and worst offerings, actress Lake Bell named the Optima Hybrid "Most Likely to Succeed." Bell praised Kia's "stellar sense of humor," the Optima Hybrid's affordable $26,000 starting price as well as its stunning design.



ISSUE 141 - DECEMBER 2011

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS SELECTS 2011 ALL-STARS
Automotive News, North America's leading automotive trade publication for 80 years, recently published its 2011 "All-Stars" list and Kia Motors was well represented with several Team Members earning recognition as important industry leaders. M.K. Chung, chairman of the Hyundai Motor Group was selected as the top Asian CEO, while KMA/KMMG president and CEO B.M. Ahn was named the top U.S. executive of an Asian automaker. Automotive News praised President Ahn for helping to increase KMA's market share by 81 percent and also highlighted the fact that Ahn is the first executive to hold the title of President and CEO of both the sales and marketing and manufacturing arms of Kia in the U.S. Kia's chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, also made the list and was credited with swiftly transforming "Kia from a brand devoid of style into one that's becoming synonymous with high-design for the masses," adding, "Schreyer and his team have penned designs that make it possible for a customer to buy a car for less than $20,000."

NOVEMBER SALES MARK KMA'S 15TH CONSECUTIVE MONTHLY SALES RECORD
Kia Motors America (KMA) recorded the company's best-ever November sales of 37,007 units sold, a 39.1-percent increase over November 2010 and the 15th consecutive monthly sales record for the brand. Following the recent start of Optima production at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), the brand's U.S.-built1 products - Sorento and Optima - were the top performers for the second consecutive month with 9,669 and 9,533 vehicles sold, respectively. Meanwhile, year-to-dates sales are up 35.7-percent.

KIA OPTIMA HYBRID NAMED TO "TOP 10 CARS OF THE YEAR" LIST BY HISPANIC MOTOR PRESS ASSOCIATION
The Kia Optima Hybrid recently was named to the Hispanic Motor Press Association's (HMPA) "Top 10 Cars of the Year" list as the top alternative powerplant vehicle. Each year, members of the HMPA recognize the most impressive new vehicles in 10 categories: American sports car, American sedan, premium car, convertible, SUV, CUV, minivan, pick-up, and alternative powerplant. Vehicles are evaluated on safety, quality, value, performance, design, style, environmental impact, and technology standards. The award reflects the unique and distinctive preferences and needs of the influential Hispanic population in the U.S. Jurors are selected by invitation only following strict criteria, including years of experience, demonstrated knowledge of vehicle technology, and proof of audience. "This is a car company that keeps impressing us and the new Rio was a finalist in the compact category as well. The Optima Hybrid cleverly incorporates powertrain, infotainment, design elements, and technology which make it a great all-around value package," said Ricardo Rodriguez-Long, HMPA jury director.


BLOGGER DESIGNATES KIA AS BEST LA AUTO SHOW PRESS CONFERENCE
Cindy Ronzoni, a prominent digital media and PR blogger who attended the Los Angeles Auto Show press days as a guest of Ford, recently declared that Kia delivered the show's best press conference. Ronzoni praised Kia for having the "best commercials for its products and some of the best advertising," and offering hors d'ouevres to the assembled press that were "not equaled by any others." In addition, Kia was praised for its innovative, high-energy press conference format: which delivered 15 news items in 15 minutes, declaring it "fresh and engaging." Ronzoni added, "Kia made us feel welcomed in their home and they hit a home run on every account from the setting to presentation." In addition to being recognized as having the best press conference, Kia's GT concept was the number one searched word on the Korean news site Daum.net for a span of two hours on Nov. 16 and YonHap News wire, South Korea's key news wire service, featured the Optima Hybrid winning the HMPA Alternative Fuel/Hybrid segment award.

ADVERTISING AGE NAMES KIA "ONE OF THE HOTTEST BRANDS"
Advertising Age recently named Kia "One of the Hottest Brands," highlighting the company's recent brand transformation led by the Soul. Kia was praised for the brand's longer-than-average warranties, plethora of standard equipment and sexy styling. Advertising Age notes, "Kia stole the spotlight with its CGI hamster spots for the Soul."

MICHELLE WIE AND BLAKE GRIFFIN SIGN AUTOGRAPHS AT THE LA AUTO SHOW
During the LA Auto Show consumer days Kia leveraged its sports ambassadors to sign autographs for show attendees. Blake Griffin, Kia's global brand ambassador, signed more than 200 autographs at the Kia booth on Nov. 19, and LPGA star Michelle Wie, another Kia brand ambassador, signed more than 300 autographs on Nov. 26. Kia also brought the brand's popular music-loving hamsters to life as visitors to Kia's new auto show display were given the opportunity to shuffle with a Kia Soul hamster through a motion-activated camera and large LED screen.

KIA MOTORS' WESTERN REGION SPONSORS LOCAL GOLF AND SOCCER TOURNAMENTS
 Kia Motors' western region sponsored a hole-in-one contest with a 2012 Optima at the 2011 Los Angeles Clippers Charity Golf Tournament on Oct. 18. More than 100 golfers helped raise funds for the Los Angeles Clippers Foundation, which supports outreach programs and activities to enhance the quality of life for children in the greater Los Angeles area. In addition, the region sponsored a hole-in-one contest on Nov. 7 with a 2012 Optima at Long Beach State Athletics Golf Tournament. More than 100 participants helped raise scholarship funds for California State University, Long Beach student athletes. Meanwhile, on Nov. 11, the region sponsored two holes at the Land of the Free Veterans Day Golf Classic with a 2012 Optima and 2012 Sorento as hole-in-one prizes. More than 200 golfers raised funds for The Land of the Free Foundation, which recognizes the sacrifices of military members, veterans and their families to ensure that we will always live in the "Land of the Free." The region also sponsored the United Soccer Foundation's youth soccer tournament held Aug. 6 - 11. The United Soccer Foundation aims to enhance, assist, and grow soccer in the U.S. with an emphasis on underserved communities. More than 15,000 soccer fans were exposed to the Kia brand though vehicle displays of the 2012 Sorento, 2012 Optima, 2012 Sportage and 2012 Forte Koup as well as a full-page program advertisement.


 


ISSUE 140 - NOVEMBER 2011

KIA BRINGS GT CONCEPT TO LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW AND ANNOUNCES MOTORSPORTS PROGRAM EXPANSION
Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled an all-new display at the 2011 LA Auto Show, another tangible example of the brand's design-led transformation that has delivered eye-catching and award-winning products and changed the way consumers view the Kia brand. During the press conference, Automobile Magazine presented Kia's Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer with its "Man of the Year" award. In addition, Blake Griffin, Kia's global brand ambassador, helped unveil a series of rides at the press conference. Griffin will be signing autographs at the Kia booth Nov. 19, 1 - 2 p.m., and LPGA star Michelle Wie, another Kia brand ambassador, will be signing autographs at the Kia booth Nov. 26, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

GT Concept
Kia GT, the brand's first-ever rear-wheel-drive concept allowed Kia's European Design Center in Frankfurt to explore exciting new visual paths, including a unique interpretation of the Kia-family tabbed grille with a carbon-fiber insert to match the front and rear fascias and side sills. The sleek and powerful sport sedan features triangular swept-back headlamps with pronounced outlines that flank the grille and transition seamlessly to the sloping hood and up to the wide windshield. The extended hood, along with the rear-wheel-drive configuration, also allowed the design team to push the front wheels to the extreme front of the car to increase its sporty design. The swooping angle from windshield to rear window enhances the GT's aerodynamic presence, while vent-like tail lights, powerful rear shoulders and truncated rear end add to the vehicle's hunkered down appearance. Propeller-style rims complete the dynamic look. The GT's front and rear-hinged back doors open slightly upward to ensure easy ingress and egress, and the spacious cabin provides comfortable seating for four, assisted by the concept's unusually long wheelbase of 112.6 inches and overall length of 184.6 inches. Despite its low stance, an overall height of 54.3 inches allows for plenty of headroom. Under the hood, the GT packs an eight-speed automatic transmission coupled with a 3.3-liter turbocharged Lambda V6 Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine to offer a thrilling 395 horsepower and 393.5 pound-feet of torque.

Motorsports Expansion
Kia's championship-winning motorsports program is expanding to include two turbocharged Optima entries in the 2012 Pirelli World Challenge Championship. Optima will compete in the Grand Touring Sport (GTS) class at world-class race tracks across North America, including Road Atlanta, the street circuit in Long Beach, Calif., and Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif. Sanctioned by SCCA Pro Racing, World Challenge features world-class drivers and race-prepped versions of production vehicles from many of the world's most popular manufacturers. The Optima will be the first Korean vehicle to compete in the series - which includes a suspenseful standing start rather than the more common rolling start - and is known for exciting door-to-door action throughout the 50-minute sprint races. Visit the Kia Racing Facebook Page for updates as Kia's teams prepare for the upcoming seasons.

KMA HOSTS NACOTY JURORS FOR EXCLUSIVE RIDE AND DRIVE
 The 2012 Rio was nominated for North American Car of the Year (NACOTY), an award that recognizes vehicles for setting new benchmarks in the classes in which they compete. A jury of 50 automotive journalists, writers and broadcasters from across the U.S. and Canada evaluate the vehicles on a variety of factors, including value for the dollar, innovation, handling, performance, safety and driver satisfaction. To be eligible, a vehicle must have been substantially changed from the previous model and must go on sale shortly after the announcement of the award, which is in early January during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. In addition, cars must be expected to exceed sales of 5,000 vehicles in North America. To provide jurors an additional opportunity to experience Rio prior to the next round of voting, Kia hosted an exclusive ride and drive for NACOTY jurors in conjunction with the 2011 SEMA Show. Jurors participated in a business presentation hosted by Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, and Ralph Tjoa, national manager, product planning, that outlined technical information and marketing plans for the all-new 2012 Rio 5-door, followed by the ride and drive that departed The Cosmopolitan hotel and traveled roads and highways surrounding Las Vegas to experience the comfort, responsive handling and impressive fuel efficiency of the Rio 5-door. Jurors also had the opportunity to test-drive the Optima Hybrid. Media were extremely complimentary of both vehicles' styling, comfort, value proposition and fuel efficiency. On Dec. 15, the three finalists for car of the year will be announced and on Jan. 9 the winner will be announced.

FOUR KIA VEHICLES NAMED CONSUMERS DIGEST "BEST BUYS"
Consumers Digest, a leading consumer resource for automotive reviews, recently named the 2012 Optima, 2012 Sorento, 2012 Soul and 2012 Sportage as "Best Buys." All vehicles selected as a "Best Buy" by Consumers Digest deliver the most value for the money in their respective classes based on purchase price and ownership costs relative to subjective factors, such as comfort, performance and utility. Receiving four "Best Buys" reflects the increasing awareness and consideration for the Kia brand.

KIA SERVES AS PRESENTING SPONSOR OF ATLANTA BUSINESS EXPO
Kia Motors' southern region recently served as the presenting sponsor of the 7th Annual Atlanta Business Chronicle Business Growth Expo. Participants were exposed to the Kia brand through a ride and drive and Kia-branded items in the gift bag. In addition, the region's display featured running footage of Kia's 2012 vehicles and a CW69 interview showcasing Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG).

HALLEEN KIA RUNS SOUL SURVIVOR CONTEST
Halleen Kia in North Olmsted, Ohio is running a Soul Survivor contest. Contestants entered by becoming a fan of the Halleen Kia Faceboook Page and then registering for the Soul Survivor contest. Mail-in entries were also accepted. Three finalists were randomly selected from all eligible entries on Oct. 27, 2011 and "moved" into a Soul to begin competing to see who can sit in the vehicle the longest. Contestants are allowed a five-minute break each hour and a 15-minute break every six hours. They are provided breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day along with unlimited amounts of water. If any of the contestants are still "living" in the car on Nov. 22 when the contest ends, the winner will be chosen by random drawing.



ISSUE 139 - OCTOBER 2011
KIA SURPASSES 400,000 VEHICLE MARK WITH RECORD OCTOBER SALES
Kia Motors America (KMA) announced the company's best-ever October sales of 37,690 units sold, a 21-percent increase over the same period last year, and the company's 14th straight monthly sales record. Year-to-date sales are up 35 percent, and Kia eclipsed the 400,000 vehicle sales mark for the first time in company history. Sorento was once again the brand's best-selling vehicle with 10,178 units sold in October, while demand for the critically acclaimed Optima midsize sedan remained strong with 8,616 units sold.

SELECT SOUL AS YOUR CARS.COM SHOPPERS' CHOICE
Kia's funky hatchback has been named a finalist for the Cars.com Shoppers' Choice Award, which names the best car on the road based on votes from consumers. Become a Facebook fan of Cars.com today and cast your vote for Soul on its page. Be sure to share the link with your friends and family through Facebook, Twitter and email. Voting runs through Nov. 30. Winners will be announced during press days at the North American International Auto Show in January.

KIA MOTORS INTRODUCES SIX ONE-OF-A-KIND SPORTS THEMED RIDES AT SEMA
Kia partnered with West Coast Customs, Antenna Magazine, GoGoGear.com, and Kinetic Motorsports to create customized vehicles representing the worlds of basketball, golf, surfing, hockey and racing. Stay tuned for more details on how you can get an up-close look at the cars in the KMA corporate lobby next week.

"Slam Dunk" Blake Griffin Optima Hybrid
The Kia-Blake Griffin partnership soared to new heights at SEMA. The inspiration behind the West Coast Customs Optima Hybrid is immediately apparent with its basketball-like custom orange paint scheme, which is accentuated by 20-inch matte black wheels and Griffin's personal logo on the hood. Inside, hoop fans will find basketball-court flooring in the front and rear seating areas, custom leather seats with Griffin's autograph embroidered in the front headrests, leather and suede door panel inserts and headliner, and a booming audio system with custom enclosures built into the rear deck lid. Two flat-screen TVs mounted in the back of the front headrests connect to a Microsoft®1 Xbox video game console and a "Pop-A-Shot" basketball hoop is mounted in the trunk for hours of off-the-court entertainment.




"Hole-In-One" Michelle Wie Soul
Built by West Coast Customs, the golf-themed "Hole in One" Soul was inspired by Michelle Wie and incorporates her original logo and artwork. The funky Soul's "So Blue" exterior paint scheme and five-spoke 20-inch wheels incorporate Wie's original artwork, which can also be found on the custom-embroidered Nike® golf bags she uses for tournament play. Adding even more personal style and flair, Wie's artwork and logo also are integrated into the Soul's "Snow White" leather headrests, while a baby blue painted dash and pink headliner and seating accents complete the whimsical interior look. Driver and passengers will be instantly transported to the golf course by the artificial grass flooring throughout the Soul, and opening the rear hatch reveals a virtual driving range with a 26-inch LED TV monitor mounted into the rear hatch and a Microsoft® Xbox 360 video game console and Microsoft® Kinect system to play golf out of the back of the vehicle. Two of Wie's tournament-used golf bags are mounted behind the TV and conceal eight-inch speakers and a subwoofer.

"Retro Surf" Rio 5-Door
Kia partnered with Antenna to create the Retro Surf Rio 5-door, which is outfitted with everything the modern-day surfer needs for a perfect day and night at the beach, including an authentic Grain wood surfboard mounted on the roof. The Rio 5-door has been lowered with a modified suspension for even sportier handling, and the aggressive exterior design is accentuated by eye-grabbing 17-inch three-piece gold wheels, a stunning sunset-metallic golden-brown paint scheme, a custom body kit with a front splitter made of wood to match the surfboard on the roof and a redesigned rear fascia with center-mount dual exhaust. The front and rear seats and door panels of the Rio 5-door are upholstered in brown and beige plaid swimsuit fabric, and the wood grain center console brings the classic surfboard theme inside. For even more fun in the sun, the rear center console has been modified as a shelf to hold sunblock and other beach and ocean accessories, and the dark brown suede headliner has a built-in towel rack. When night falls, surfers and their friends will gather around the Rio 5-door's massive rear hatch area, which has been stocked with a juicing station, a retro iCade gaming console that plays 80s-style arcade games on an iPad®, a turntable to play vinyl records, and shelves for sandals and clothing. Surf's up!

"Hat Trick" Forte 5-Door
The Antenna Hat Trick Forte 5-door is designed to carry hockey players' bulky gear to and from the rink. It can handle it all with a custom hockey stick holder that stretches from the trunk forward, in between the seats. The power play continues inside as the rear bench seat has been converted to two bucket seats with custom upholstery and there are custom-molded sports bottle drink holders in the center console. Rubberized flooring in the front and rear seating areas simulates the surface found outside the rink, and the action continues off the ice TVs mounted in the front seat headrests wired to a Microsoft® Xbox video game console featuring EA Sports NHL12 video game. The Forte 5-door is finished with custom ice-metallic gray exterior paint, 18-inch blue alloy wheels, a custom body kit, and Forte Koup front bumper with carbon fiber accents and LED "hockey stick" fog lights, quad-tipped exhaust, carbon fiber roof material and lowered suspension. The headliner features a built-in hockey coach's play board and the locker room-like rear cargo area features built-in compartments that house four carbon fiber hockey sticks and two jerseys color matched to the exterior of the car, an ice skate rack and glove hooks to dry out sweaty game-used equipment, and custom accent lighting.

Rio 5-Door B-Spec Racer
Kia expands its third-year racing program with entry into showroom stock ("B-Spec") racing with the all-new 2012 Rio 5-door subcompact. The Rio 5-door B-Spec racecar will compete against models like the Mazda2, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta and others in a range of events organized by various motorsports sanctioning bodies, including World Challenge, GRAND-AM, Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and National Auto Sport Association (NASA). B-Spec racing is a relatively affordable way for any auto enthusiast to get into competitive motorsports. Once potential racers purchase their 2012 Rio 5-door LX, a B-Spec kit that costs approximately $14,000 is available for purchase from Kia's racing partner, Kinetic Motorsports. The kit supplies everything needed to transform the Rio 5-door from street car to racecar, including a roll cage kit, racing seat, quick-release steering wheel, racing harness, shocks, lightweight wheels, spec-series tires, and oil sump pan expansion kit along with complete build instructions. If preferred, the B-Spec racers can have the team at Kinetic Motorsports assemble their racing Rio for an additional cost.

USTCC Optima Hybrid Pace Car
Kia also will return to the track as the official Safety Car of the United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) in 2012 with the stylish and fuel-efficient Optima Hybrid replacing the Soul at the front of the pack in March. With 206 combined horsepower from the gasoline and electric motor, the Optima Hybrid has plenty of power but the crew at GoGoGear.com has added a few performance enhancements, including a free-flow air intake system, Magnaflow® exhaust system, coil-over suspension kit to lower the ride height, front splitter and rear wing, lightweight wheels and performance tires that will better stick to the racing surface. The USTCC Optima Hybrid also features an eye-catching exterior with custom vinyl graphics, color scheme, and array of lighting, including LED auxiliary lights and HID headlights, strobe lights and LED light bar on the roof to help direct traffic while on duty. Moving inside, a state-of-the-art audio and video system with navigation system was installed and the booming audio system uses Infinity®2 speakers and amplifiers to crank out more than 2,400 watts of sound. The rear passengers can enjoy a DVD video system with dual seven-inch monitors mounted in the front-seat headrests with wireless headphones. Passengers will also notice the Optima Hybrid's custom leather seat upholstery with green accent stitching to match the exterior trim color.

KIA SHOWCASES RECENTLY INTRODUCED VEHICLES AT REGIONAL MEDIA EVENTS
Kia Motors showcased recently introduced vehicles at Motor Press Guild (MPG) Track Days Oct. 11 - Oct. 12, the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Truck Rodeo Oct. 20 - Oct. 22 and a Washington Automotive Press Association (WAPA) ride-and-drive event on Oct. 23. With the recent arrival of the 2012 Rio 5-door and 2012 Soul in showrooms, Kia Motors introduced high-profile and influential Los Angeles-based media to the two new vehicles at MPG track days. The event also provided journalists in attendance the opportunity to test-drive the 2011 Optima SX and 2011 Optima Hybrid. A number of media commented on the 2012 Soul's refreshed styling and improved performance, as well as the impressive value proposition the 2012 Rio 5-door offers, in addition to being a stunning car. Media also commented on how impressed they were with the Optima Hybrid's styling and performance, noting its smooth transitions and ample power. TAWA's annual Truck Rodeo provided an opportunity for Kia to showcase the capabilities of the 2012 Sorento and 2012 Soul through designated on- and off-road courses. Journalists were impressed with Sorento's cargo space and off-road capabilities while Soul's funky personality, performance enhancements, and great value caught attendees' eyes. Meanwhile, Washington D.C.-based journalists experienced the 2012 Soul, 2012 Rio 5-door and 2012 Optima SX at a WAPA-held two-hour ride and drive through rural Maryland. Feedback on the Kia vehicles was extremely positive and journalists are anxiously awaiting press fleet loans.
2 Infinity® is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.

KMA PRESENTS COMPANY OVERVIEW TO HATCI TEAM MEMBERS KMA
 representatives recently traveled to HATCI to provide team members with a "State of the Business" update. Tom Loveless, vice president, sales and Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, briefed team members on the current state of KMA and thanked them for the hard work and dedication they have shown to help grow the brand. Team members also had the opportunity to ask questions about current and future Kia vehicles.

KIA SHOWCASES FUEL-EFFICIENT VEHICLES AT SOCIETY OF ENVIRONMENTAL JOURNALISTS RIDE AND DRIVE
Kia Motors showcased the fuel-efficient Optima Hybrid, Rio 5-door and Soul at the Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ) Ride and Drive Oct. 21 - Oct. 22. Journalists experienced Kia's Hybrid technology, Idle Stop and Go (ISG) and new 1.6L GDI engine during a two-day ride and drive through the streets of Miami. Journalists were impressed with Kia's stand-out designs and were pleased to learn about the company's numerous green initiatives.

KIA SHOWCASES SPORTAGE AND SOUL AT ACTIVE LIFESTYLE VEHICLE OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Kia recently showcased the Sportage and Soul at the Active Lifestyle Vehicle (ALV) of the Year awards, the only car-of-the-year program to combine the input of nationally recognized automotive journalists with elite local athletes to determine which cars and trucks best meet the needs of buyers with active lifestyles. Judges observed walk-around presentations by product specialists prior to driving two on-road courses and an off-road course. Judges considered the vehicles' overall design, engine power, fuel efficiency, and cargo capabilities. Athletes and judges alike were impressed with Soul's unique personality, Sportage's cargo space and the brand's design-led transformation.

RIVERCHASE KIA CREATES AWARENESS FOR BREAST CANCER
Riverchase Kia in Pelham, Ala., donated a portion of profit generated from the sale of each vehicle during the month of October to the Susan G. Komen Foundation to help fight breast cancer. In addition, the dealership is helping to promote this worthwhile cause by wearing Susan G. Komen for the Cure breast cancer awareness shirts and adorning the dealership with pink ribbons and balloons.

KIA MOTORS' CENTRAL REGION SPONSORS CHICAGO HOCKEY TEAMS
Kia Motors' central region currently serves as a sponsor of the Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Wolves and Chicago Express. As part of the region's sponsorship with the Chicago Blackhawks, fans have the opportunity to enter to win a 2012 Optima at the end of the regular season. The sweepstakes is promoted though a QR code on the back of all tickets as well as pocket schedules. Meanwhile, as part of the region's Chicago Wolves sponsorship, the region is running a "The Move of the Game" contest to upgrade ticketholders to VIP seats. In addition, the 2012 Sorento, the Official Vehicle of the Chicago Wolves, will be on display at all home games this season. Kia also serves as the Official Vehicle of the Chicago Express.

BILL WASH KIA HOSTS DNA LIFE PRINT EVENT AND TEEN SAFETY PROGRAM
 Bill Wash Kia in Ottawa, Ill., recently hosted a DNA Life Print event and Teen Safety Program. More than 150 life kits designed to provide families with the tools they need to help protect their loved ones were distributed at no cost. Kits include a complete and accurate set of FBI certified biometric fingerprints, a DNA sample, a recent full color high quality photo, and statistical information for an investigator to track a missing child. In addition, the Ottawa police department conducted a child safety seat program and the fire department provided Smoke House demonstrations for children.

KIA MOTORS' CENTRAL REGION HOSTS DEALER CHALLENGE TO SUPPORT LOCAL SCHOOL
Kia dealers in Chicago and Northwest Indiana, in coordination with the Chicago Bulls, raised $11,740 to purchase 35 laptops to create a learning lab for students at Victor Herbert Elementary School in Chicago. The region also donated 340 backpacks to the school - one for each child. Bulls' personalities Scottie Pippen, Randy Brown, Adrian Griffin, Bob Love, Sidney Green and Chuck Swirsky, along with Benny the Bull and Kia delivered donated school supplies, including spiral notebooks, pencils, pens, pocket folders, crayons, and backpacks in Kia vehicles to the students.




ISSUE 138 - OCTOBER 2011
2012 RIO 5-DOOR AND 2012 SOUL MAKE OFFICIAL DEBUT IN AUSTIN
 Kia Motors America (KMA) recently hosted nearly 100 top-tier journalists for the 2012 Rio 5-door and 2012 Soul National Press Introduction at the eco-centric Travaasa resort in Austin, Texas. Journalists experienced Rio 5-door's dramatic change in character from conventional to aspirational and Soul's finessed styling and improved drivetrain. The 180-mile drive route included scenic back roads, city streets and open highways, allowing attendees to test for themselves Rio's responsive handling, smooth ride and impressive fuel economy, as well as Soul's increased horsepower and new transmissions. Meanwhile, during the business presentation, the executive team provided a closer look at KMA's impressive sales success, marketing strategies and technical details of Kia's new models.




KMA POSTS HIGHEST BRAND LOYALTY RANKING IN LATEST STUDY BY EXPERIAN AUTOMOTIVE KMA
recently landed on top of respected automotive analysis group Experian Automotive's second quarter brand loyalty ranking with 47.9 percent. Experian also reported that the Forte compact sedan received the highest loyalty ranking of any vehicle with 68 percent, while the popular Soul urban passenger vehicle and Forte Koup two-door landed not far behind with 59 percent and 57 percent rankings, respectively. To calculate loyalty, Experian Automotive tracks owners who bought a new vehicle that returned to the market place for another new vehicle purchase from the same brand.

ERTLEY KIA SPONSORS TEACHER OF THE MONTH PROGRAM
Ertley Kia in Moosic, Pa., is running a teacher-of-the-month program for the second consecutive school year to recognize and reward the commitment of local teachers. Winners are selected based on essays students in Lackawanna & Luzerne counties submit describing their teacher's achievements in the classroom and the community. The winning teacher receives use of an Optima Hybrid for one month, a $150 Visa gift card and dinner for four at Chili's Restaurant. Meanwhile, the student who nominated the winning teacher receives a $100 Visa gift card and a $50 Burger King gift card.



THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED IN CHOC WALK
Thank you to everyone who strolled through the Disneyland® Resort on Oct. 16 for the 21st annual CHOC Walk in the Park, supporting Children's Hospital Orange County (CHOC). The Kia In Action team raised more than $6,000 to support the care, services, education and research that CHOC provides children. More than 14,000 walkers raised more than $1.7 million to help make sure the 330,000 children CHOC treats every year receive care regardless of their family's ability to pay. If you were unable to participate in the walk, but would like to help CHOC make Orange County one of the safest and healthiest places for children. In addition, as part of Kia Motors' CHOC Walk sponsorship, the 2011 Optima Hybrid and 2012 Rio were on display at Downtown Disney. KMA representatives were on hand to pass out beach balls and answer attendees' questions about Kia vehicles. Many attendees thanked Kia for their support of CHOC and complimented Kia for the brand's outstanding vehicle designs and fuel efficiency.

KIA MOTORS' EASTERN REGION SERVES AS TITLE SPONSOR OF PHILADELPHIA FLYERS' HOME OPENER
Kia Motors' eastern region recently served as the title sponsor of the Philadelphia Flyers' home opener against the Vancouver Canucks, a rematch of last year's Stanley Cup Playoffs. Flyers fans were exposed to the Kia brand through in-arena activations, including Mites On Ice, which enables children between the ages of the six and nine to skate on the ice during intermission. Fans also were exposed to the Kia brand through vehicle displays outside the arena featuring the Optima Hybrid and Sorento. In addition, attendees who stopped by Kia's booth in the arena had the opportunity to enter to win autographed Flyers jerseys.

KIA MOTORS' SOUTHERN REGION SERVES AS SPONSOR OF REVEREND DR. JOSEPH E. LOWERY'S
90TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Kia Motors' southern region recently served as a platinum sponsor of Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery's 90th birthday celebration in Atlanta. Considered the Dean of the Civil Rights Movement, Lowery champions the causes of justice and equality for all. Attendees were exposed to the Kia brand through vehicle displays featuring the Optima as well as Kia-branded promotional items.

KMA CELEBRATES CUSTOMER SERVICE APPRECIATION WEEK
During Customer Service Appreciation Week, Kia Motors recognized the role that Consumer Affairs team members play in KMA's growing brand loyalty. Customer Service Appreciation Week, an international event recognized in 54 different countries by numerous companies from different sectors (financial, automotive, healthcare, insurance, manufacturing, governmental, etc.) is celebrated annually during the first full week of October. The week is devoted to recognizing the importance of customer service and honoring the people who serve customers each day.

KMA HOSTS BLOOD DRIVE KMA,
in coordination with the American Red Cross, hosted a blood drive on Oct. 4 in the Multi-purpose room. This year's blood drives at KMA will help save up to 140 lives.




ISSUE 137 - OCTOBER 2011
KIA MOTORS AMERICA SURPASSES ALL-TIME BEST U.S. ANNUAL SALES TOTAL IN LESS THAN NINE MONTHS
AND RECORDS BEST-EVER SEPTEMBER SALES
Kia Motors America (KMA) recently announced the company's best-ever September sales of 35,609 units, an 18.4-percent increase over the same period last year and the brand's 13th straight monthly sales record. Kia's design-led transformation has delivered unprecedented growth and market share gains, and with year-to-date sales up 37.1 percent, KMA bested its previous record annual sales total in less than nine months. September sales were once again led by Sorento. In addition, Optima, which recently began production at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), was a strong performer with 6,191 units sold.

KMA HOSTS NATIONAL DEALER MEETING IN LAS VEGAS
Kia Motors America (KMA) recently hosted dealers and employees in Las Vegas for the annual National Dealer Meeting. Presenters at the business meeting included B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG); Tom Loveless, vice president, sales; Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications; and John Crowe, vice president, service and aftersale operations. During the business meeting, the executive team highlighted the company's accomplishments this year and provided a look ahead to the brand's 2012 sales, marketing and service strategies. Dealers also were provided a first look at the Optima Limited, Rio B-spec race car, Optima World Challenge race car, and had the opportunity to drive the 2012 Rio 5-door and 2012 Soul. Meanwhile, comedian Brian Regan provided entertainment for attendees.



KIA'S MUSIC-LOVING HAMSTERS NAMED FIRST-EVER "ROOKIE OF THE YEAR" IN ANNUAL MADISON AVENUE
ADVERTISING WALK OF FAME PUBLIC VOTE
Kia's music-loving hamsters recently were honored with Madison Avenue Advertising Walk of Fame's first-ever "Rookie of the Year" award. This iconic designation reflects the public's quick embrace of the funky Soul urban passenger vehicle campaigns. Every year, Advertising Week inducts some of America's most beloved slogans and mascots into the Madison Avenue Advertising Walk of Fame.

KIA MOTORS' CENTRAL REGION CELEBRATES NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Kia Motors' central region is celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 - Oct. 15) with a series of community event sponsorships and Hispanic-targeted campaigns designed to create additional awareness for the Kia brand and showcase Kia vehicles to the Hispanic community in the Chicago market. The region served as a presenting sponsor of Fiestas Patrias, a celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage that commemorates Mexico's independence from Spain. Organized by Univision, Fiestas Patrias features a main stage with live performances from top Latin performers and a community stage that plays host to local dancers, singers and other Hispanic cultural acts. More than 20,000 people were exposed to the Kia brand through vehicle displays featuring Sorento, Optima and Soul. Meanwhile, the region also served as an exclusive sponsor of Jewel-Osco events in the Chicago area. Participating stores hosted events that highlighted Hispanic food, music and history with food sampling, prize giveaways and tips on Hispanic recipes from a professional chef. As part of the sponsorship the region displayed a Sorento and Optima. To further showcase Kia vehicles to the Hispanic community in the Chicago market, the region developed online campaigns for AutoTrader.com and placed a full-page ad focusing on Sorento, Optima and Soul in La Prensa de Chicago's Hispanic Heritage Month issue.

KIA MOTORS SHOWCASES LATEST VEHICLES AT IMPA TEST DAYS KMA
showcased several recently introduced vehicles and highlighted the company's latest technological advancements at the International Motor Press Association (IMPA) Test Days. Northeastern-area journalists had the opportunity to experience the Optima Hybrid, Optima Turbo, Sorento SX, Sportage SX, Forte 5-door and Forte Koup at IMPA Test Days. Attendees experienced Kia's vehicles through a local drive route, off-road course and at the world-class Monticello race circuit. Feedback was highly complimentary, with journalists noting the strong value proposition as well as the stunning design of each vehicle and Kia's growing market share.

KMA DONATES VEHICLES TO LOS ANGELES TRADE-TECH COMMUNITY COLLEGE KMA
recently donated a 2011 Optima, 2011 Sorento and 2011 Sportage to Los Angeles Trade-Tech Community College for use in the school's auto shop program. Through this donation Los Angeles Trade-Tech will be able to further its efforts to provide training instruction on some of the most advanced automotive technology available. It also reflects Kia Motors' commitment to the local community, supporting educational programs and investing in workforce training.

KIA SPONSORS 10TH ANNUAL IRVINE GLOBAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL
Kia Motors served as the Presenting Sponsor of the 10th Annual Irvine Global Village multicultural festival on Oct. 1 at Bill Barber Park. More than 17,000 guests were exposed to the Kia brand as they celebrated Irvine's cultural diversity and experienced the sights, sounds and tastes of the world representing more than 50 cultures. Guests enjoyed the mosaic of music and dance on five stages, including the Kia Rio and Kia Optima stages; immersed themselves in cultural and religious displays; indulged in international cuisine; and shopped in the world marketplace. As part of Kia Motors' sponsorship, Scott McKee, director of public relations, provided remarks during the opening ceremonies. In addition, KMA displayed the Rio, Optima Hybrid, Sorento, Sportage and Soul.

KIA GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
Friendly Kia in New Port Richey, Fla., bought a trolley to help with all Main Street Downtown events; including charitable and homeowner events in the local community. The trolley is also made available at no cost for use by non-profit groups in auction package donations. Charitable auction packages have included trolley rides to any destination within the Tampa Bay Area and Spa Weekend packages that include a full vehicle detail, an oil change, and a full tank of gas. While the auction winners' car is being pampered, they have the opportunity to drive a new Kia vehicle.

KIA MOTORS' SOUTHERN REGION SPONSORS PARADE OF EXCELLENCE
Kia Motors' southern region recently served as the automotive sponsor of the Parade of Excellence during the Fall Classic, an annual game between Southern University and Florida A & M. The parade celebrates educational excellence in Georgia schools, honoring the achievements of middle school and high school students and recognizes students for their individual and collective efforts across all aspects of their education. As part of the region's sponsorship, Percy Vaughn, director of regional operations for KMA's southern region, delivered the Fan Attendance award to Florida A & M, the school with the most fans in attendance.

NAPLETON KIA HOSTS SOUL OWNERS MEETING
Soul owners in the Midwest recently gathered at Napleton Kia for the inaugural Soul Hamsters Club meeting. The growing group had the opportunity to showcase their vehicle modifications and discuss future plans for their Soul. To help create awareness for the event the dealership invited its entire customer base.