It’s a threepeat for the Picanto!
Once again impressing a panel of motoring media and other Car Awards Group, Inc. (CAGI) members, the Kia Picanto took home its 3rd Basic Sub Compact of the Year award at the recently concluded 2008 Car of the Year Philippines (COTY-P) held at One Esplanade Manila. Columbian Autocar Coporation (CAC), exclusive distributor of Kia vehicles in the country, fielded the Kia Picanto 1.0L DLX variant to weeks of intense regulated qualitative and quantitative tests competing with the Channa Benni, Chery QQ, Geely CK, Hyundai i10, and Toyota Vios. “Winning this award for the third year in a row shows the capabilities, functionality and features of the Picanto are hard to beat. It is the little car that will amaze you from its stylish, contemporary look, accommodating cabin and trunk space, proven reliability, fuel and maintenance economy and steady engine power to get you zooming around town,” says Mr. Felix J. Mabilog, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer of CAC.
The Kia Picanto has been a market favorite since it was introduced in the Philippines in 2004. This hot hatch has been the constant answer to the market’s dilemma of not just rising purchase price, but increasing fuel and maintenance costs.
Back to back win for the Carens
Another Kia model that made its mark at the COTY-P awards night was the Kia Carens 2.0L CRDi VGT. Even with only minor changes to the new variant, the Carens was still presented the Compact Van/ MPV of the Year award making it a back to back win for this sturdy and sporty MPV. The Carens was pitted against the Suzuki AVP II, the only other entry in the category.
Carnival gets the trophy
Kia further surprised everyone by winning the Luxury Van/ MPV of the Year for the long wheel base Kia Carnival EX CRDi this year over the incumbent Hyundai Starex. According to CAGI President Ira Panganiban, the results of the testing favored the Carnival for its better handling and over-all feel and ride.
With these three top awards in its belt, CAC remains confident that the industry will come to know the true meaning of the Kia badge – style, quality, reliability and economy. Test drive and experience these award-winning Kia models at your nearest authorized dealerships today!
