Kia Motors Corporation exported a record 323,807 vehicles to the Middle East and Africa in 2014, a 10 per cent increase from the previous year.

Saudi Arabia witnessed substantial growth, recording a total of 70,421 units, representing a 70 per cent year-on-year increase.

The most desired Kia vehicle in the MEA region during 2014 was the Cerato with 54,914 units. The Rio was the second best with 54,487 units delivered, while the Picanto and Sportage followed with 53,187 and 47,613 units respectively.

Kia’s sedan line up of Optima and Cadenza, specially configured to meet the regional demand for premium feel and extensive product features, have  shown a tremendous increase recording 67per cent( 29,070 units) for Optima and 83 per cent (5,413 units) for Cadenza. In the SUV segment, the recently launched Sorento has created substantial interest and played a significant role in increasing traffic to showrooms.

Over the course of 2014, Kia posted increased year-on-year exports to Saudi Arabia (+70 per cent -70,421 units), Egypt (+40 per cent - 17,213 units), Bahrain (+36 per cent - 4,629 units), and UAE (+11 per cent -16,466 units).

“Our success in expanding the Kia brand in the Middle East region and Africa is important not just for the region but on a global scale as well” said Alex Chung, president of Kia Motors Middle East & Africa Regional Headquarters.

“Our results speak for themselves and highlight the progress Kia is making in the delivery of its promise to surprise. 2014’s results have established a strong platform to maintain this growth in 2015, and with exciting new models being launched this year we hope to continue this success,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service