Kia Motors Corporation, a leading automobile manufacturer, has officially announced the launch of its brand in Mexico, during a ceremony held in Mexico City recently.

Kia will begin retail sales at 21 dealerships in 10 major cities across the country on July 1, said a statement from the company.

Around 250 government officials and industry leaders were in attendance to witness the ushering in of a new entrant to the local automotive market and a new era of global expansion for the South Korean automaker, it added.

Three import models will be initially available for Mexican buyers – Forte sedan (known as Cerato or K3 in some markets), Sportage compact SUV and Sorento midsize SUV. The all-new Kia Optima midsize sedan will be added to the lineup in November 2015, said the statement.

Speaking at the launch, Tae-Hyun, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Kia Motors, said: “As one of the world’s last remaining markets in which the Kia brand does not have a sales presence, our entry into Mexico is a clear sign of the importance this market holds for our future.” – TradeArabia News Service