Under new management: Ayala re-launches Kia in the Philippines

AC Industrials, a subsidiary of Ayala Corporation is now the new custodian of the Kia brand in the Philippines.

The Kia brand was re-launched in the Philippines by AC Industrials tonight at an ‘unboxing’ event in Makati. The addition or the Kia brand into the Ayala fold expands the corporation’s participation in the domestic auto industry.

The event also saw the introduction of the Soluto subcompact sedan together with the brand’s current model lineup. The re-launching is part of the Korean automaker’s next step to further expand its market presence, particularly the younger segment of the automotive market.

“We are excited to introduce Kia’s wide range of model lineup as well as a new brand of sales and service experience for Filipinos. We are delighted to partner with Kia Motors Corporation in this endeavor and we look forward to many years of working together as we re-establish the Kia brand in the Philippines,” said Ayala Corporation president Fernando Zobel de Ayala. 

The acquisition of Kia Philippines marks the 6th brand to be carried and offered by AC Industrials vehicle distribution and dealership unit, AC Automotive. The move to acquire Kia is also in line with the company’s strategic plan to strengthen and increase AC Automotive’s presence in the local market.

With the launch of the Soluto, Kia Philippines now carries six passenger vehicles in its lineup along with one commercial vehicle. For the passenger vehicles, this includes the new Soluto, Picanto, Rio, Sportage, Sorento, Grand Carnival. Meanwhile, the K2500 remains Kia’s ever dependable workhorse. However, expect new models to debut with Kia’s future unboxing events.

Kia Philippines currently has over 35 dealerships nationwide, and plans to establish more this 2019. Under new management, all Kia dealerships will ramp up aftersales service quality, competence, and parts availability to provide every customer an exceptional service experience.