31 May 2011
Riyadh- Al-Jabr Automotive, the sole distributor of Kia Motors in Saudi Arabia has launched recently the all-new Picanto 2012. The launch was attended by VIP's, businessmen, Media, celebrities and public figures.

Al Jabr Automotive management has always looked out for events beyond the ordinary. The Picanto launch was no exception. The launch ceremony started by a small presentation about the all-new Picanto after which everyone was waiting anxiously for the moment to see the new Picanto - 2012 coming out of the curtains, smoke, mystic lights and laser spell. The launch ceremony effortlessly exceeded the expectations of guests which consisted of spectacular performances. In the end, a lavish dinner was served to the attendees.

The all-new Kia Picanto, which made its global premiere at the recent Geneva Motor Show, has been redesigned and re-engineered with stand-out styling that conveys the sense of solidity and maturity.  Longer than the previous model, and with an extended wheelbase, new Picanto promises more passenger comfort and increased cargo space.  It is set to completely redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in the global 'City Car'- A-segment.

Over the last three years the Kia product family has undergone a complete design metamorphosis, moving from 'rational mainstream' to 'trendsetter'.

The five-door Picanto hatchback is the newest member to join this exciting and stylish Kia family.  Kia has taken a courageous new step with the latest version of its smallest model.  The character of the car has been transformed from 'cute' and 'friendly' into mature and handsome, designed to turn heads on the high street, thanks to its good looking proportions and dynamic design language.  Picanto in its newest form exudes a bold self confidence and maturity which is unique in the A-segment.

The eyes of the tiger, formed by Picanto's LED positioning lamps suggest high levels of design and high tech sophistication. Combined with a dramatic lower grille opening, the lights create a sporty and distinctive down road graphic.

New Picanto makes a strong, well balanced and cohesive design statement which avoids unnecessary decoration and combines a contemporary fashionable feel with rational functionality. 

Features being introduced with new Picanto as options include UV-reducing solar windscreen glass, full automatic air-conditioning, electric folding door mirrors, automatic light control with 'welcome and escort' modes, passenger seat storage tray, under-floor trunk storage box, retractable dual cup holders with mood lighting, sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors and a 'gear shift indicator' to encourage an economical driving style.  Other new features available include AUX, iPod and USB connections for the RDS radio CD player with MP3 compatibility and Bluetooth® hands-free. 

Mr. Mir Ajmal Marketing Manager in Al-Jabr Automotive, commented " Picanto is a fantastic car for daily use in  the Saudi society, five-door with incredible economic engine and excellent design will be available in the Saudi Market with very reasonable price."

Mr. Abulhassan Hamied, GM Marketing Strategy highlighted the successful marketing initiatives of Kia which brings Kia Motors one of the fastest growing automotive companies all over the world. In Saudi Arabia, as well Kia Motors have launched several latest models to suit all passenger car customer segments.

Kia Motors now has recently opened several new branches Kingdom wide, 7 more in Eastern region alone, upon the instructions of Shk. Abdul Latif Al Jabr, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al Jabr Automotive to make Kia sales and after-sales services conveniently available for all customers.

Kia Motors Corporation (www.kia.com) a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart -- was founded in 1944 and is Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. As part of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, Kia aims to become one of the world's premier automotive brands. Over 2.1 million vehicles a year are produced in 13 manufacturing and assembly operations in eight countries which are then sold and serviced through a network of distributors and dealers covering 172 countries. Kia today has over 44,000 employees worldwide and annual revenues of over US$20 billion. It is the major sponsor of the Australian Open and an official automotive partner of FIFA -- the governing body of the FIFA World Cup™. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan -- "The Power to Surprise" -- represents the company's global commitment to surpassing customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation.

It is worth mentioning that Al Jabr Group dates back to 1952 when the sons of Sheikh Hamad Mohammad Al Jabr began their journey into the world of commerce with the establishment of a small company trading in foodstuffs. In 1956, a branch was opened in Al-Khobar, which was their first international activity. The Group currently has the following business activities: Al Jabr Automobiles Sales and Services; Al Jabr Laundry and Dry Cleaning; Al Jabr Beverages; Al Jabr Electronics; Al Jabr Air Conditioning; Al Jabr Batteries; Al Jabr Garments; Al Jabr Insurance; and the Gulf Carton Factory. The holding group is an active practitioner of Corporate Social Responsibility and has committed millions of Saudi riyals to supporting various charity projects that benefit local society.

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© Press Release 2011