IRVINE, Calif. — With U.S. production of the stylish and performance-oriented Optima getting underway last week at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG)(1), the head-turning design of Kia’s popular midsize sedan continues to earn high praise, including the title of “Most Gorgeous Car Under $20K” from the sophisticated men’s lifestyle magazine, Esquire.  Along with the recognition, Optima is one of only nine finalists in “The 2011 Esquire Design and Technology Awards” after editors applauded its “clean and inspiring” design that provides a refined and upscale feel at an extraordinary value.

“Esquire defines and shapes men’s style and fashion in today’s contemporary culture, and this recognition further validates the Optima’s tremendous value proposition with its unmatched combination of  world-class design, advanced technology, and fun-to-drive performance,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communication, Kia Motors America (KMA).  “The stunning design and value of the Optima has significantly increased awareness, perception and consideration for the Kia brand and with demand continuing to outpace supply we are looking forward to the first U.S.-built* Optimas arriving in showrooms in the coming weeks.”

The Optima’s latest accolade from Esquire follows a slew of awards for the popular midsize sedan, including being named a 2011 “Editors’ Most Wanted” vehicle by Edmunds’ Inside Line, a 2011 “Best New Model” by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, and being included as part of the “Ward’s 10 Best Interiors” list.  In addition to being recognized in the press, Optima also has received prestigious safety accolades, being named a 2011 “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) and receiving an overall five-star crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

About the 2011 Kia Optima

With sleek exterior styling and a refined interior, the 2011 Optima is available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, and offers a wide array of convenience and luxury as well as impressive technology features like an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SiriusXM Traffic™(2) Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service, auxiliary and USB audio input jacks and standard Bluetooth®(3) wireless connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls(4).  Available with three powerful and fuel-efficient engines, a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo or a 2.4-liter hybrid, the stylish and performance-oriented midsize sedan begins at $19,200.

Design-Led Transformation and Product Line

Kia Motors has undergone a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand’s continued gains in U.S. market share.  Kia is poised to continue its momentum and brand growth through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technology.  Kia’s commitment to the U.S. market is represented by its U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – which is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and added the critically acclaimed Optima midsize sedan to its production line in September.  Kia’s model year 2012 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Optima Hybrid, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 745 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the “Official Automotive Partner of the NBA.”  In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.