News Brief: Kia to offer Sirius Satellite Radio

NEW YORK – With sales spiking, new vehicles rolling into dealerships and plans for a new automotive plant in Georgia underway, Kia put the cherry on top at the 2006 New York International Auto Show, announcing plans to offer Sirius satellite radio in all vehicles for the 2009 model year. The deal includes three months of free service.

“Sirius offers a unique combination of on-air talent, creative programming and various sports and entertainment properties that fit perfectly with Kia’s evolving brand characteristics,” said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of Kia Motors America. “Our next-generation products have delivered Kia to new segments and new consumers, and the addition of Sirius will strengthen the company’s ability to offer high-quality vehicles with modern features and amenities at an incredible value for the consumer.”

The partnership is a boon for Sirius, as it boosts subscriptions by offering its product on some of the hottest selling models in the U.S. For Kia, it means that Kia vehicles will continue to move away from a past reputation as being economy and warranty oriented.

Photos courtesy of Sirius