Kia Achieves Impressive Improvement in Web Site

IRVINE, Calif., May 29 -- Kia Motors' web site earned high marks from consumers according to J.D. Power and Associates 2002 Semi-annual Manufacturer Web Site Evaluation Study(SM) just released. Kia ranked second overall among manufacturer web sites in terms of consumer evaluation of the site's usefulness, which includes navigation, appearance/presentation and relevance of information. The Kia.com site placed first in the "relevance of information" factor.

Kia jumped from 25th to 2nd versus last year's rankings. The 2002 Manufacturer Web Site Evaluation Study(SM), acknowledged for being one of the most credible and recognized studies ranking manufacturer web sites, surveyed more than 4,300 Internet users who intend to purchase a new vehicle within 24 months. The study evaluates overall site functionality and the importance of site features to online shoppers.

"We are proud that our web site accurately communicates information that shoppers not only find most relevant, but does so in a fun and engaging manner," said Peter M. Butterfield, Kia's executive vice president and chief operating officer.

"We ranked higher than a lot of bigger competitors, but that just goes to show the high level of creativity and ingenuity we've developed within our company to meet the needs of our customers," said Butterfield.

Results of the study indicated that a well-designed manufacturer web site could be integral in motivating automotive shoppers to visit dealer showrooms for a test drive. In addition, it may increase a visitor's likeliness to request an online price quote.

This is the third year for the J.D. Power and Associates Manufacturer Web Site Evaluation Study(SM). Survey respondents were recruited primarily from the Kelley Blue Book site ( kbb.com ) and Yahoo! Autos.

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