Kia Motors Corp is a South Korean automobile manufacturer.
Kia was founded in 1944, and later produced 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" roughly translates as "Rising from Asia" in Chinese characters.
In 1993, it began operating in the United States, which first began sales in California. The dealers in 1994 sold the Sephia, then a few years later the United States sales line expanded with the addition of the Sportage. Kia cars are generally perceived as being cheap, but of poor build quality, but improving in recent years. Ten-year powertrain warranties have been aggressively promoted in Kia advertising. (Also see Hyundai)
Kia's troubles in 1997 helped to push South Korea into the Asian financial crisis, and it was acquired in 1998 by the Hyundai Motor Company. |
