One of the most significant results in Driver Power’s history is that of the Kia cee’d, according to David Johns, editor-in-chief of Auto Express.
On its debut performance in the independent Driver Power survey, the cee’d beat the Volkswagen Golf and claimed the highest rank in the C-segment, jumped straight into the top 10, and is ranked as the sixth best model overall. Its closest rival, the Volkswagen Golf, was way below in 22nd place.
The cee’d result is underlined by an improved performance in the manufacturer’s ranking which sees Kia ranked as 12th overall this year, a jump of two places on last year’s result.
David Johns added: “Kia’s class-topping result in Driver Power is proof of how far its cars have come in terms of quality and reliability, as well as image.“
The independent annual Driver Power survey was carried out by Auto Express, in conjunction with the Daily Telegraph, and measured the views of more than 21,400 new car drivers across Britain. The cars they drive are scrutinised and scored on their performance in a number of key areas, including practicality, build quality, reliability, and running costs.
The Kia dealer network was also under scrutiny and, among others, was measured on helpfulness and attitude, standard of workmanship and value for money.
A Kia Motors (UK ) spokesman said: “What a debut. Kia has come a long way and these results underline our belief in the design, quality, and value of our products. And don’t take our word, our customers are doing the talking through the Driver Power survey. The Kia cee’d has dynamic design, high build quality and frugal engines, all backed by a seven-year 100,000 mile warranty and all for much less.”
Driver Power - top ten results
1 Jaguar XF
2 Skoda Superb
3 Skoda Octavia (new )
4 Land Rover Discovery (new )
5 Lexus RX
6 Kia cee’d
7 Rover 75
8 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
9 Land Rover Freelander (new )
10 Toyota Rav4 (new )
Driver Power – Compact Family
1 Kia cee’d
2 Volkswagen Golf (Mk IV )
3 Toyota Prius
4 Toyota Corolla
5 Fiat Bravo
Kia Forte Koup steals the limelight Stateside
With performance-inspired, aggressive, and sleek styling, Kia gave a global debut to the 2010 Forte Koup (to be known as ‘Cerato Koup’ in some countries ) production vehicle at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. Joining the Forte family in the Kia lineup, the company’s first two-door coupe embodies the brand’s current bold design direction first seen on the concept version of the Soul urban passenger vehicle in 2006.
“On the heels of the introductions of the Soul and Forte sedan, Forte Koup represents the next exciting step in the transformation of Kia design and offers a blend of sporty and emotional appeal,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing for KMA. “We believe our new design evolution coupled with standard Kia value and safety features will continue to attract customers to the Kia brand.”
Unfortunately, Kia tells me the stunning Forte Koup is not for our market at this time - but keep your fingers crossed.
