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The fourth generation of the Kia Sportage crossover performed by GT Line — In the first quarter, the new Sportage is expected to enter the Russian market. When I first saw him, I was delighted — this crossover will be at the forefront of its design segment. In addition, it has a very high quality interior, as well as advanced options, in particular, a navigator that can display traffic jams in real time. We pin special hopes on the GT-Line sports line, which will attract additional buyers — people who are used to everything that is most advanced and fashionable. Therefore, despite the weak market, we expect to increase sales and strengthen our position in the C-crossover segment.
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Kia Sportage GT Line
Kia Sportage GT Line Kia Sportage GT Line Kia Sportage GT Line Another important new product for us is the second-generation Optima. She will perform in class D, in which a considerable amount falls on fleet sales. We are confident in Optima, because it has become even more spacious, comfortable and solid. All of this should appeal to corporate customers. Well, the sports version of the GT, most likely, will be bought by individuals who will appreciate both the powerful engine and the suspension and steering retuned for the sake of active driving. This version is designed to enhance the brand image and Optima model as a whole. — What is the priority for your specialists when creating new models: power, sportiness, handling, comfort, safety, clean exhaust? — All of these factors are very important to us. But, of course, there are priority ones. Firstly, Kia has made significant progress in design recently. We intend to maintain a “fashionable image and develop it. All of our new models must be impeccable in terms of style. Secondly, we continue to work on strengthening the reputation of a manufacturer of quality and reliable cars. Thirdly, special attention is paid to advanced options and systems — we make them available to the mass consumer. What first appears in premium cars, Kia is rapidly introducing into the mass segment.
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What is the market share of Kia in Russia now?
— For eight months of this year, we increased the share to 9.9%. This overlaps last year’s figures by two percentage points.
Is this the result of a restrained pricing policy or did something else work?
— Of course, a combination of factors played a role in our success. One of the most important is a strong product offering. Despite everything, we continue to launch new and updated models. Since the beginning of the year, we have launched eight debutants. And by the end of the year, three more are expected: the upgraded cee’d, Sorento Prime with a V6 gasoline engine, as well as the special Soul version, which you will learn about later.
The second important factor is the strong Kia dealer network, which we strongly support. We are not going to change the commercial conditions for working with them.
Finally, car quality is also a powerful trump card that helps attract buyers. According to the latest reliability ratings published by the JD Power agency, Kia cars in the absolute took second place. According to the residual value ratings, a number of our models are among the best in their segments. In short, Kia is no longer perceived by consumers as a brand that produces small cheap cars. The situation has changed radically! At the motor show in Frankfurt, everyone was able to see what level the new cars of our company are.
— You did not mention localization … — Of course. More than 60% of our sales come from Kia Rio, which is produced in a full cycle at a plant near St. Petersburg. — As you know, this production works close to the limit of its capabilities. How about expanding its capacity? Maybe there are plans to build another plant or to buy an idle Jiemovsk? — We do not have our own factory in Russia — the one in St. Petersburg belongs to our partners from Hyundai. As for our own production, so far we have no such plans. — Recently there was information that next year a new generation of Hyundai Solaris will be shown. Should we expect a new Rio? — No need to rush things. We updated Rio a few months ago, it is still quite fresh and attractive, as evidenced by its high popularity. — Then let’s talk about those new products that will definitely appear next year.
