IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 1, 2004 - Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced monthly sales of 23,001 units for September 2004, the company’s best September sales ever and a 19.4-percent increase over the same month in 2003. Kia’s year-to-date sales of 203,671 were 8.6-percent ahead of the record number achieved in 2003.

“With 70-percent of sales coming from Optima, Sedona, Sorento and Amanti, this richer product mix demonstrates how consumers’ view of the Kia brand has dramatically changed,” said Peter M. Butterfield, Kia Motors America’s president and chief executive officer. “These products showcase Kia’s unique ability to deliver high-quality, well-designed vehicles across numerous segments, all at a tremendous value.”

The Sorento mid-size SUV set its third monthly sales record of 2004 with 5,632 units sold, a 60.6-percent increase over September 2003. Other Kia models showing increased sales in comparison to last year included the Optima mid-size sedan, up 30.3-percent, and the Sedona minivan, up 28.9-percent. The Amanti large premium sedan also performed well with more than 1,700 units sold.

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