KIA Sonet redefines the subcompact SUV market in the Philippines with record-breaking success. Photographs courtesy of KIA PH
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Kia Philippines breaks records

TDT

Kia Philippines closed out 2024 on a high note, shattering sales records and achieving milestones that underscore the brand’s growing momentum under ACMobility’s leadership. The numbers speak volumes: 6,692 units sold, a 33 percent jump from 2023, and an impressive December performance with 805 units sold — the highest monthly figure since Ayala took over the brand in 2019.

“We are incredibly pleased with the performance of our vehicles in 2024, which has resonated well with Filipino consumers,” Antonio “Toti” Zara III, head of Automotive Retail Distribution at ACMobility, said. “Surpassing 800 unit sales in a single month is a testament to the hard work of our team and dealer partners, and it highlights the momentum we’ve built in the market with models that address the aspirations of Filipino motorists. As we continue to lead a movement that inspires, we are excited to carry this success into 2025 and beyond.”

KIA Philippines highlights its diverse lineup to meet evolving customer needs.

Since its launch in June 2024, the Kia Sonet has emerged as a formidable player in the Philippine automotive market. Achieving a remarkable 23 percent market share since its launch in the entry-level B-SUV segment, the Sonet solidifies its position in second place, comprising nearly one out of every four subcompact SUVs sold in the Philippines.

By the end of December 2024, the Kia Sonet recorded an impressive 3,823 units sold in just seven months of retail sales. This milestone firmly establishes the Sonet as the 4th best-selling subcompact SUV of the year and the best-selling model introduced by Kia in the Philippine market. Furthermore, Sonet’s monthly sales tripled those of its predecessor, the Kia Stonic, underscoring its market appeal and strong customer demand.

This success is further validated by the Kia Sonet’s recognition through multiple industry awards, including Top Gear Philippines’ 2024 Underrated Car Of The Year, Autoindustriya.com’s Editor’s Pick as Your First Car, and the Compact Hero Award by Zigwheels Philippines. The accolade attests to its outstanding design, features, and value. Its exceptional performance drives Kia Philippines’ growth and underscores the brand’s commitment to delivering innovative and high-quality vehicles that resonate with Filipino consumers.

KIA Philippines showcases its impressive lineup, driving innovation and growth in the local automotive market.

Kia has also made remarkable strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its electrified lineup. Apart from the Kia EV6, which opened the doors for an electrified future, Kia took the next big step with the recently launched and highly acclaimed EV9. It served as Kia’s bold entry into the premium electric SUV segment, which has already received widespread recognition in markets where it’s been introduced. At the 2024 World Car Awards, the Kia EV9 made history by securing the World Electric Vehicle Award and the prestigious World Car of the Year title.

The launch of the Kia Carnival Turbo Hybrid in November made a significant impact, further reinforcing Kia’s commitment to electrification. With the Carnival Turbo Hybrid, Kia ushers in a new era of premium family mobility, combining advanced hybrid technology with the versatility and comfort that the Carnival is known for.

KIA’s sleek and modern SUV stands out with its striking design and versatile performance.

Kia’s outstanding performance in 2024 underscores its strong growth trajectory and unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative vehicles that align with Filipino car buyers’ evolving preferences. These results solidify Kia’s position as a key player in the automotive industry.

As Kia Philippines continues to evolve and adapt to market demands, the company remains committed to offering reliable, modern, and fuel-efficient vehicles to the Philippine market. Looking ahead, Kia aims to build on its strong sales momentum and deliver even more exciting and customer-centric models in the coming years.

The new Kia Carnival Turbo Hybrid combines premium comfort and cutting-edge hybrid technology.

Kia Philippines is poised for even greater growth this year, fueled by the continued success of the Sonet and the recent launch of groundbreaking models like the EV9 and Carnival Turbo Hybrid. Additionally, with Kia’s efforts to expand its electrified portfolio in 2025, the new model launch of the Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid will offer Filipino consumers even more tailored options to meet their evolving needs and preferences.

“2024 has been a pivotal year for Kia Philippines, and we’re thrilled with the growth we’ve seen. Our success with the Sonet and other models reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative, reliable, and stylish vehicles to Filipino consumers. We’re excited to build on this momentum and continue offering products that meet the needs of the modern Filipino driver,” Brian Buendia, chief operating officer of Kia Philippines, said.

For more information, visit https://www.kia.com/ph/main.html.