IRVINE, Calif., September 1, 2005 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced monthly sales of 23,820 units for August 2005. Kia's year-to-date sales of 192,958 were 6.8 percent ahead of the record number achieved in 2004.

Kia's August sales were highlighted by a 54.4-percent increase in sales of the Spectra nameplate, as well as a 34.5-percent increase for the Amanti large premium sedan.

This month also marked the on-sale date of the all-new 2006 Rio subcompact sedan and Rio5 five-door, which both went on sale in late August. With a starting MSRP of $10,570, the new Rio offers six standard airbags, best-in-class interior room and horsepower, and delivers 38 miles-per-gallon (highway) at a time when gasoline prices are at record highs.

"The Spectra has proven to be a strong seller throughout the year and this month was no exception," said Peter M. Butterfield, Kia Motors America's president and chief executive officer. "Now that the all-new subcompact Rio sedan and Rio5 five-door have arrived in showrooms, we are confident that we'll continue to attract new customers to our dealerships."

Kia Motors America is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea.