This year, Kia commemorates its 50th anniversary as a passenger vehicle manufacturer, reflecting on a remarkable journey of innovation and excellence. From its humble beginnings as a bicycle parts maker, Kia has emerged as a global automotive leader, renowned for its advanced vehicles and dedication to sustainable mobility.
From Bicycles to Brisa
Kia’s story began in 1944 when it was founded as Kyungsung Precision Industry, producing steel tubing and bicycle parts. Fast forward to 1974, the company unveiled its first passenger car, the Brisa, marking the beginning of Kia’s automotive legacy. This modest sedan, built with 90% locally sourced parts, became a symbol of resilience and a favorite among taxicab drivers in Korea.
Navigating Challenges and Achievements
In the 1980s, Kia faced significant hurdles, including government restrictions that stopped passenger car production. Despite these challenges, the resilient brand adapted and resumed manufacturing with Mazda-based models. By 1993, Kia made its debut in the U.S. market, opening four dealerships in Portland, Oregon, which set the stage for its international expansion.
Shaping the Future of Mobility
Kia’s commitment to innovation shines through its recent achievements, such as the introduction of a new logo and brand philosophy, “Movement that Inspires,” in 2021. This reflects its dedication to dynamic design and sustainable mobility. The launch of the EV6, Kia’s first dedicated electric vehicle, marks a significant step toward clean mobility solutions, aligning with its Plan S strategy for prioritizing eco-friendly vehicles.
Kia’s design evolution is highlighted by milestones like the “Tiger Nose” grille introduced in 2007 and the 2017 unveiling of the Proceed Concept. The brand’s dedication to design has earned numerous accolades, including multiple Red Dot Design Awards, demonstrating its ability to blend aesthetic appeal with functionality.
Commitment to Quality and a Vision for the Future
Kia’s focus on quality is highlighted by its consistent recognition as the highest-ranked mass-market brand in J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the brand’s extended 7-year warranty, offering peace of mind to customers worldwide. Looking ahead, Kia continues to be at the forefront of automotive innovation. Its recent unveiling of the Concept EV9, a vision of sustainable mobility, underscores the brand’s commitment to leading the charge in electric vehicle development. With a growing lineup of EVs, including the recently launched EV3 subcompact crossover, Kia is poised to shape the future of transportation.
Join the Celebration
As Kia celebrates its 50th anniversary, it remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and inspiring movement. Join us in honoring this remarkable journey by exploring Kia’s diverse range of vehicles by visiting Savage Kia today and experiencing the best of what Kia has to offer. Test drive the brand-new 2024 Kia Telluride, discover Kia’s incentives, and speak to our experts to discover the true lengths of our brand’s historic quality. We look forward to seeing you at Savage Kia!
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.