Kia Sedona Earns Strategic Vision Award; Sedona Once Again Tops Minivans in Total Value

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 12 -- The 2002 Kia Sedona received more recognition this week for outstanding value when it earned top honors in the minivan category on Strategic Vision's 2002 Total Value Index (TVI). The annual list is calculated by the San Diego research firm and correlates all economic issues in conjunction with the quality of the ownership experience.

Strategic Vision, a leading-edge consumer research company, conducted the survey among car owners who purchased their new vehicles between October 2001 and March 2002. The TVI is calculated by assessing the immediate economic rewards (value for the money, price/deal offered, warranty and standard equipment level) and the vehicles anticipated value (durability, future trade-in, mileage and reliability). The scores are then considered against measures of the total perceived ownership experience.

"We are very honored to receive this award because it is a direct result of customers' experiences and impressions of their new car," said Peter M. Butterfield, Kia's executive vice president and COO. "We know what a great value the Sedona is, and we're pleased that it is receiving the industry and customer recognition that reflects that value."

The Sedona has proved to be a landmark vehicle for Kia in customer satisfaction and safety. The Strategic Vision Award is the latest in a string of accolades for the Sedona, including top honors in the minivan category for a 2002 Vehicle Satisfaction Award given by AutoPacific, Inc., a top automotive consulting firm. In addition, the Sedona received the five-star crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the government's highest safety award.

Kia Motors America is the sales, marketing and service arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea. For more information, visit www.kiamedia.com .