Kia has once again solidified its position as a leading force in the automotive industry, securing the highest number of model-level awards in the 2024 J.D. Power Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) Study. With five segment-topping vehicles, Kia emerged as the most awarded brand in this year’s study, further cementing its reputation for delivering quality and customer satisfaction.
The 2024 J.D. Power APEAL Study, which assesses the emotional attachment and level of excitement that customers feel toward their new vehicles, revealed Kia as the third highest-ranking brand among Mass Market competitors. This achievement underscores Kia’s consistent ability to resonate with consumers across various vehicle categories.
Notably, the Kia K5, a midsize car, received top honors for the fourth consecutive year, showcasing its enduring appeal and strong market presence. The all-electric Kia EV6 and the Kia Carnival also continued their winning streak, each earning model-level awards in their respective segment; Compact SUV and Minivan for the third year running.
Adding to Kia’s impressive accolades, the EV9, Kia’s Upper Midsize SUV, was recognized with a segment award in its debut year. This marks a significant achievement for Kia as it reflects the growing enthusiasm among consumers for electric vehicles, particularly from legacy automakers. The Kia Forte rounded out the brand’s successes, being named the highest-ranked Compact Car for the second year in a row.
Steven Center, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Kia America, expressed his pride in the brand’s accomplishments: “We are thrilled to stand out in this year’s J.D. Power APEAL Study with the most segment-leading winners, particularly with the K5, EV6, Forte, and Carnival earning consecutive awards. Moreover, the recognition of the EV9 in its debut year highlights our commitment to understanding and responding to our customers’ needs across various vehicle segments—be it a Compact Car, SUV, or all-electric vehicle.”
The 2024 J.D. Power APEAL Study is based on responses from 84,569 owners of new 2024 model-year vehicles, surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study was conducted between July 2023 and May 2024, drawing on data from vehicles registered between April 2023 and February 2024.
Kia’s strong performance in the 2024 APEAL Study reaffirms its position as a leading player in the competitive automotive market, consistently delivering vehicles that resonate with consumers and meet their diverse needs.
Leave a Reply