On Thursday, June 17th, Kia became the newest member of the Walker Automotive dealership group.  The acquisition from All Star Motors, Inc. officially closed, bringing the total number of franchises for Walker to eight.  All Star will become the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep franchise in Alexandria and will open their franchise in the former Kia location on Coliseum Boulevard. 

“This is a very exciting day for all of us” Said Foster Walker III, President of Walker Automotive.  “We had a tough loss last year when General Motors decided to discontinue its Saturn brand.  We have been looking for a top-notch replacement for that franchise and believe that Kia will be the perfect addition.  Kia is a growing brand and is taking market share with new and stylish vehicles that appeal to younger buyers and those with fuel economy concerns.”  The Kia franchise will be located in the former Saturn building at 1515 Dorchester.  Walker stated that cars will be arriving shortly and service should be up and running by the end of next week.

Kia was only one of three brands to increase sales in 2009.  “Kia has several new models this year including the Soul crossover, Forte sedan and coupe, and the next generation Sorrento.  Those vehicles appeal to a huge age demographic that we believe will attract new buyers to Walker Automotive,” Walker said.  “Kia’s goal is to increase sales 17% this year, and they are on track to do that.  We hope to be an integral part of that increase.”