Kia flaunts 3 new models in grand relaunch

MANILA, Philippines — Kia Philippines, which has been relaunched by the Ayala Group as part of its automotive portfolio, is launching three new vehicle models this year as it aims to sell 10,000 units.

During the brand’s re-launch, Kia Philippines president Manny Aligada said the company would be unboxing three vehicle models this year to support its goal of achieving higher sales.

He said the sub-compact sedan Soluto is the first new vehicle model being launched by the company this year.

“Before us, this was a China only model. We are the first country to have the Soluto outside of China,” he said.

Kia Philippines is banking on the Soluto to be the main vehicle model to drive sales for the company this year.

“We want the Soluto to be half of the annual overall target this year,” Aligada said.

Kia Philippines is aiming to sell a total of 10,000 units this year, after selling 2,200 units last year.

The Soluto features a 1.4-liter dual-CVVT (continuous variable valve timing) gasoline engine which produces 95 PS of power and 132 Nm of torque, spacious interior, standard seven-inch touchscreen audio with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, six-speaker system, rearview camera and steering wheel controls.

Available in clear white, titanium silver, aurora black pearl, blue stream and marcato red, the Soluto has four variants with a price range of P625,000 to P735,000.

Aligada said Kia Philippines would want those planning to buy their first car to consider the Soluto.

Customers interested in the Soluto can see the vehicle for the first time up close until Feb.3, at the activity center of Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, Level 4 Cinema lobby of Trinoma in Quezon City, and the activity center of Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa City.

Apart from the Soluto, Aligada said Kia Philippines would be introducing two other vehicle models this year, with one to be rolled out during the Manila International Auto Show in April, and the third one in the last quarter of the year.

At present, Kia Philippines’ offerings cover the sub-compact hatchback Picanto and Rio, sports utility vehicles Sportage and Sorento, multi-purpose vehicle Grand Carnival and the K2500.

The company has set an ambitious target this year as other automotive firms are also stepping up their game to attract customers.

“We are not resting because it is a competitive market,” Aligada said.

Kia Philippines is under AC Industrials, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ayala Corp.

Apart from Kia, other brands under Ayala’s automotive portfolio are Honda, Isuzu, Volkswagen, Maxus and KTM motorcycles.