Kia Named 2014 Best Value Brand By Kelly Blue Book's KBB.COM

DANVILLE, Va. - June 6, 2014 - PRLog -- The Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Awards recognize automakers for their outstanding work in capturing the attention and interest of new-vehicle buyers. In April 2014, Kia Motors America earned its first ever Brand Image Award for 'Best Value Brand.' Kia scored high marks—driven primarily by the Optima, Rio, Soul, and Forte models—on affordability and fuel efficiency.

CADENZA AND FORTE TOP COMPETITORS:

In a Motor Trend shootout of full-size sedans, including the Toyota Avalon and the Chrysler 300S, the Cadenza came out on top. The Forte sedan notched a win as well—with reviewers noting its appealing combination of fuel efficiency and exclusive features.

Associate online editor Nate Martinez noted of the Cadenza, "It's extremely smooth, well-sorted, and amazingly comfortable." While the Kia's steering lacked much feel, it wasn't significantly worse off than most others in the group, and body roll was minimal. Also worth noting: The Kia drove like the smallest car in the group, even though it's larger in every exterior dimension than the Avalon.

Kia's Cadenza also impressed with its eager 3.3-liter mill and paddle-shiftable six-speed auto. Though only midpack on output with 293 hp on tap, the Kia tied for second-quickest quarter-mile time with the most powerful car in the group: the 305-hp Chevy Impala.