Hyundai-Kia Reports All-Time Sales Record in August

The Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group have reported all-time record monthly sales in August 2009, with Hyundai’s Elantra and Sonata and Kia’s Sportage and Optima being the best-selling models. Both Hyundai and Kia representatives admitted that the Cash for Clunkers program had a strong influence on the group’s sales.

Separately, Kia’s total sales in August totaled 40,198 units, up 37 percent over July, while Hyundai delivered 60,467 units, which represents a 33 percent increase over last month’s sales. The worst selling models in the group’s range were Hyundai’s Tiburon and Entourage, with 45 and 20 units respectively, and Kia’s Borrego and Amanti , with 992 and 81 units respectively.

"Our relative market share increase tied to the vehicles included in the C.A.R.S. program is among the top three brands in the industry," said Tom Loveless, vice president of sales, KMA.

"The C.A.R.S. program attracted new customers to Kia; those that didn't necessarily want or need a new car, but were enticed by C.A.R.S. to buy a car that would last," Loveless said. "These buyers, often with better credit, are a solid sign of a significant positive change in brand perception and a tribute to the entire Kia vehicle line."

"The successful Cash for Clunkers program stimulated the auto industry in time for the summer selling season, and we will work to continue that momentum through the fall," said Dave Zuchowski, vice president of sales, Hyundai Motor America

"August was a shot-in-the-arm for the industry, and a great month for Hyundai and our dealers, with all-time sales records for the Hyundai brand, Elantra and Genesis," said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America..