Kia, Hyundai Report 12, 33 Percent Sales Increases

Things are far from being over in this unstable automotive industry severely hit by the economic recession but the first positive signs finally appear. Both Kia and Hyundai reported increased sales in March 2009 compared to the month before but obviously much lower versus the 2008 figures. To be more specific, Hyundai Motor America sold a total of 40,721 vehicles in March, down 5 percent from the same month of 2008 but up 33 percent over February levels.

Hyundai's Sonata was undoubtedly the best-selling model last month, with 12,406 units delivered to US buyers. Elantra came second with 9,510 units, followed by Santa Fe with 5,866.

"We are satisfied with our overall performance in this difficult business climate," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America vice president of national sales. "The fact that we experienced only a nominal decline from an all-time March sales record in 2008 is acceptable to us. Even with continued economic stress and industry uncertainty, this performance is a clear indication that the Hyundai brand is sustaining its momentum and expanding its relevance."

Kia delivered a total of 24,724 units in the United States, an increase of 12 percent compared to February 2009 and, more importantly, up 1 percent over the same period last year. Kia Sentra, Sedona and Sorento were the best-selling models with 6,423, 4,426 and 3,217 units respectively sold to buyers across the states.

"Sales of the Kia Sorento and Sedona are strong and we can attribute that to the right marketing strategy and our strong value proposition," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "We also are pleased to have the Soul post impressive results right out of the gate with its recent launch in the U.S market; we feel we have the right vehicles for the times.