Kia named top car manufacturer for best cost of ownership

The Irvine based company was recognized by Kelley Blue Book as top brand

Kia Motors America has earned Kelley Blue Book’s top award in the online automotive resource website’s Total Cost of Ownership non-luxury brand category. The 2012 Kia Soul was also recognized for Lowest Cost of Ownership for compact cars. “As the non-luxury brand winner, Kia tops all manufacturers for low average total ownership costs,” said Juan Flores, Kelley Blue Book‘s director of vehicle valuation.  “With a number of successful redesigns, greatly improved quality, superior fuel economy and competitively priced models, Kia sets itself apart.” KBB’s data for the total cost of ownership based on the first five years is determined mainly by depreciation, the cost of fuel, maintenance and insurance costs. Kia’s overall average cost came in below $40,000. The 2012 Soul saves owners even more money at $32,000.  “Kia has evolved dramatically as a company in the past three years and developed one of the youngest and most acclaimed vehicle lineups in the industry,” said Vice President Michael Sprague. Over the past three years, Kia has released nine new vehicles that the automaker says live up to the brand’s forte of style, performance and technology. “The award from Kelley Blue Book is further validation of the maturation of the Kia brand and our unique ability to exceed consumer expectations while maintaining our reputation for tremendous value,” said Sprague. Courtesy of OC Metro