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Kia Soul and Sportage Lead in Updated J.D. Power Initial Quality Study

Last updated Wednesday, July 3, 2013 08:00 ET

Crossovers Top Their Segments as Researcher Ups Focus on Technology

Milwaukee, 07/03/2013 / SubmitMyPR /

As drivers have demanded more in-car connectivity in recent years, the parameters for what constitutes vehicle quality have expanded. To reflect that changing landscape, J.D. Power and Associates modernized its Initial Quality Study (IQS) this year to gather more information from car buyers about their experiences with their vehicle's technology. The tech-packed 2013 Kia Soul and Sportage excelled when judged by that updated criteria, topping the Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle and Sub-Compact CUV categories, respectively.

Using feedback from more than 83,000 purchasers and lessees of 2013-model-year vehicles, the 2013 J.D. Power IQS was determined by a 233-question survey that covered each car's performance, exterior, and interior, as well as its features and accessories. Besting the Mazda5, the Kia Soul experienced the fewest problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in its segment, while the Kia Sportage jumped to the top of its segment over the Nissan JUKE. Overall, Kia finished in the top 10 of all auto brands with a score of 106 PP100, rising above the industry average of 113 PP100.

"Kia's performance in the 2013 IQS provides more proof that no other brand offers such a high level of quality at such affordable price points," said Jeff Rosen, general manager of Milwaukee, Wisconsin Kia dealer Rosen Kia Milwaukee. "Kia particularly benefited from J.D. Power's increased focus on technology this year, because models like the Soul and Sportage come standard with features that can be costly options from other automakers, like Bluetooth connectivity, a USB connection and an auxiliary input."

Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com cited those tech features when recently naming the 2013 Kia Soul to its list of the 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000 for 2013. Editors also praised the urban crossover's bold style lines, which include a backwards-sloping roofline contrasted by a rising beltline. Even with its modern technology and stylish looks, though, the Soul reminded KBB.com of a compact cargo van, thanks to its 53.4 cubic feet of space behind the front row.

Like J.D. Power, AutoPacific also found that drivers are having many positive experiences with the 2013 Kia Sportage, as the model led the Compact Crossover SUV category in the auto-research firm's 2013 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards. To identify the most satisfying vehicle in each segment, AutoPacific surveyed more than 52,000 new-vehicle owners on 51 attributes spanning performance, fuel economy, convenience and interior comfort. The 2013 Kia Optima also earned a Vehicle Satisfaction Award in the Mid-Size Car category.

"Any model on the market has the potential to win an industry award every once in a while, but the Kia Soul and Sportage are consistently earning recognition from a variety of sources," added Rosen. "That means both vehicles are giving buyers the complete package with their cool styling, their impressive technology and their versatile space."

About Rosen Kia Milwaukee:
Rosen Kia Milwaukee has been serving the automotive needs of Wisconsin residents for years, providing top-notch new and used Kia sales, service and parts in a customer-focused environment. Their Milwaukee dealership offers the entire lineup of new Kia vehicles, including the Kia Soul, Optima, Sorento, Sportage, Forte, Rio and Sedona. Whether visitors are looking for a new vehicle or thorough Kia service and repairs, Rosen Kia Milwaukee aims to exceed customer expectations every time. Visit their showroom at 5505 South 27th St. in Milwaukee, Wis. or call them at 414-239-9200. They can also be found online at www.kiamilwaukee.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RosenNissanKia.