Sportage #1 in J.D. Power Dependability Study
J.D. Power has ranked the Kia Sportage number one in the Small SUV category of its 2015 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS).
This latest recognition follows Sportage's two consecutive J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey (IQS) awards (2013 and 2014).
The industry-wide study examines problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year old vehicles (2012 model year). Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100). Thus, a lower score reflects a higher long-term quality level. The Sportage ranked first in a field of seven contenders with a score of 129 PP100.
"We believe the results of the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study demonstrate Kia's ongoing commitment to quality and obsession with craftsmanship in building our world-class products," said John Crowe, vice president, service and after-sale operations, Kia Motors America (KMA). "The Sportage is a clear example of how far the entire Kia model line-up has progressed, and this kind of quality is tangible evidence of our long-term strategy to enhance the Kia ownership experience."
VDS measures the long-term quality of vehicles, including new technologies and features currently available to buyers. It includes 32 nameplates and 228 models, covering 177 specific problem symptoms grouped into eight major vehicle categories.
Starting with the LX trim, Sportage offers numerous standard features, including 17-inch alloy wheels matched with 225/60R17 low-rolling-resistance silica tires, body-color door handles, Bluetooth Wireless Technology Hands-Free Connectivity, solar glass, privacy glass, keyless entry with folding key and a six-speed electronically controlled Sportmatic® automatic transmission. The popularly equipped EX trim offers stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55R18 tires, LED turn signals on the outside mirrors, a rear camera display and backup warning system,2 high-performance dampers, roof rails, a rear spoiler, fog lamps and chrome body trim and door handles. The top-of-the-line Sportage SX adds a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI engine producing 260-horsepower, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, sculpted side sill moldings, LED accent lighting along the headlamps for a sportier, more upscale appearance and a unique SX grille.
Right now here at Barnett, you can lease a new 2015 Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento for only $149 a month. Or look at a new 2015 Kia Optima for only $109 a month. Also, you can drive either a new 2015 Kia Forte or Kia Soul for an incredibly low $79 a month. It’s just plain a good time to look at Kia and maybe cure some Winter blues.
And, of course, every new vehicle comes with Barnett's exclusive MILLION MILE Warranty. Ask your sales associate for all the details on that, too. Come see us soon at Barnett Kia on Highway 61 in White Bear Lake!