Kia is the NFDA’s manufacturer of the year.
The National Franchised Dealers' Association (NFDA) has named Kia Motors Limited its manufacturer of the year for 2013.
This award is only in its second year of existence, but it has recognised the brand for the close and positive relationship it has developed with its network around the UK over the past 12 months and before.
According to the NFDA, the carmaker's strong links to its network resulted in it achieving scores in the survey that were consistently high. The win was particularly impressive because the manufacturer was able to beat off stiff competition from the likes of Land Rover and BMW.
The victors were named at the NFDA's Autumn Ball, with the winners based on the results based on a summer survey conducted by the group, which involved franchised dealers from up and down the country.
It was shown that Kia outperformed all the main volume brands on numerous topics. In addition, the company was also heralded as one of the top three most attractive franchises to hold.
Paul Philpott, president and chief executive of Kia Motors Limited, said: "The two bi-annual NFDA surveys are vital measures for us – they allow us to look at our relationship with our dealers in detail and provide a key indication of how our systems and processes are seen by dealers."
Mr Philpott described it as a great honour for the manufacturer to be recognised in this manner. He said it is a source of much pleasure to know the award was achieved thanks to such a strong performance in the 2013 summer survey.
The industry figure noted everybody within the operation will value the accolade greatly, adding: "We will be trying very hard to maintain and improve our performance and win this honour again next year!"
The award come after the Kia cee'd Sportswagon was named number one in the best estate car category in Diesel Car magazine's annual car of the year issue for 2013.
By George Davis