CAPE TOWN – A J.D. Power 2022 vehicle dependability study hs ranked Kia as best among the leading 32 automotive brands in the US and – loser to home – its Sorento, recently launched in South Africa, has a top spot in the study’s ‘Upper Midsize sport utility vehicle.’

The industry-wide study examined problems experienced by original owners of three-year-old vehicles (2019 model year) with overall dependability determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100).

”A lower score reflects higher quality,” the Korean automaker told The Corner. ”Kia claimed top overall brand honours with a score of 145 PP100 – an achievement that follows Kia scoring highest of JD Power Initial Quality awards in 2021.”

Sean Yoon, president and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, told the Corner via a media release: ”The results substantiate Kia’s commitment to quality, durability and craftsmanship. Furthermore, the Sorento’s category win speaks to the world-class ownership experience.”

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The study involved 29 487 surveys related to the newest technology and features available to buyers. It included 32 brands, and covered specific problem symptoms grouped into five major vehicle areas: PP100, component replacement, software updates, vehicle appeal, and deterioration.