Kia Motors

Kia Motors Company KSE: 000270 is a South Korean automobile manufacturer.

History

South Korea's oldest car company, Kia was founded in 1944. It later produced several Mazda models under licence, including the Pride (based on the 121) and Avella, which were sold in North America and Australasia as the Ford Festiva and Ford Aspire. The name "Kia" (기아, 起亞) roughly translates as "Arising from Asia" in Korean and Chinese characters.

In 1993, it began operating in the United States, with initial efforts focused in California. Dealers in 1994 sold the Sephia, and a few years later the United States line expanded with the addition of the Sportage. Kia vehicles were considerably less reliable than those from competitors, and relied largely on ten-year powertrain warranties for sales. (Also see Hyundai Motor Company) Kia has consistently ranked last on J.D. Power and Associates durability index. In recent years however, Kia has worked to improve the reliabilty of their vehicles and it now rates higher than many other car companies. ( In 2004, it was no longer last on JD Powers durability index, but 2nd last. Last place went to Land Rover). In 2005 it regained its title as the least durable.