(June 1, 2011) IRVINE, Calif. — Kia Motors America's unprecedented growth trend continued in May with the brand posting its best-ever monthly sales of 48,212 units — a 53.4-percent increase from May 2010, and a 2.4-percent increase over the previous record set last month. 

Kia's year-to-date sales are up 44.8 percent over 2010, while the brand's U.S. market share climbed to an all-time high on the strength of May sales.  The U.S. built Sorento was Kia's best-selling vehicle for the 17th consecutive month. 

Demand for the popular Soul urban passenger vehicle remained high in May, exceeding its previous best-ever sales total with 11,157 units sold.

"Kia's record performance this year, and in the last three months, is a testament to our comprehensive and fuel-efficient vehicle lineup, which offers world-class styling and cutting-edge technology to today's discerning shoppers," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia .