IRVINE, Calif., April 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2011 Kia Sorento has been Kia's best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for 15 consecutive months, and the popular CUV recently added another award to its trophy case by being named to the Kiplinger's Personal Finance "Best Cars for Families" list.  The Sorento has achieved a number of historic firsts for Kia Motors America (KMA), such as becoming the brand's first vehicle to sell 10,000 units in one month, the first vehicle to surpass 100,000 units in a single year and the first vehicle produced at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) in West Point, Georgia.  

"With its stylish design, upscale features, and remarkable safety, the Sorento represents Kia's commitment to offering stylish and practical vehicles that meet the needs of today's busy consumers at a tremendous value," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA.  "The Sorento is a great choice for families, and this accolade from Kiplinger's Personal Finance continues the momentum of our most popular vehicle and is a reflection of the dramatic impact Kia's design-led product transformation has had on the brand."

All vehicles selected by editors at Kiplinger's Personal Finance have been named an IIHS "Top Safety Pick," according to editors at Kiplinger's Personal Finance.  Vehicles were judged based on their family-friendly characteristics, including vehicle size within the segment, cargo space and the value the vehicle provides families.

About the 2011 Kia Sorento

The 2011 Sorento, the first vehicle to roll off the line at Kia's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, encompasses both the brand's signature design cues as well as its distinct combination of value, safety and style.  The 2011 Sorento, which has been Kia's best-selling vehicle each month since going on sale in January 2010, offers consumers a well-equipped, well-appointed CUV, suited perfectly for the fun, dynamic and discerning driver.  Available in LX, EX and SX trim levels, the 2011 Sorento features a starting MSRP of $ 21,995.(2)

2011 Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia's model year 2011 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio sub-compact sedan, Rio5 sub-compact hatchback and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 730 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

SOURCE Kia Motors America