Seoul: Kia Corp., recognized as South Korea’s second-largest automaker, reported a minor increase of 0.3 percent in July sales compared to the previous year, primarily driven by robust export figures. The automaker sold a total of 262,705 vehicles in July, a slight rise from the 261,798 units sold in the same month last year, as mentioned in the company’s statement.

According to Yonhap News Agency, domestic sales experienced a decline of 2.2 percent year-on-year, amounting to 45,017 units. Conversely, overseas sales saw an increment of 0.9 percent, reaching 217,188 units. The Sportage compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) emerged as the best-selling model, with 41,477 units sold globally. The Seltos subcompact followed with 23,617 units sold, while the Sorento mid-sized SUV recorded sales of 16,813 units.

Kia’s cumulative sales from January to July experienced a growth of 1.8 percent, totaling 1,850,241 units, up from 1,817,495 units in the same period the previous year. A company official highlighted Kia’s strategy to enhance exports by expanding its lineup of eco-friendly models.