Small Business Spotlight: Phil Smith Kia

It’s the end of summer, and car enthusiasts know that now’s the time that the cars for the next model year roll off the assembly lines and into the showrooms. Phil Smith Kia (4230 N. Federal Hwy., Lighthouse Point) is particularly happy about the 2016 models, because they include some of the most trusted cars currently on the market, two of which (the Kia Sorento and the Kia Soul) recently won J.D. Power Awards, for highest-ranked SUV in initial quality and highest-ranked compact, respectively.

I spoke with general manager Wes Lasher about the 2016 models in this exclusive Hotspots interview.

Can you tell us about some of the 2016 models that have made it to your showroom?

We have some changes to one model in particular. The Kia Sorento received a couple of updates: it’s a little longer now, a little lower to the ground, and the interior has changed up a little. It’s also quieter to ride in and drive, and all of the amenities have been upgraded. The Kia Forte, while largely unchanged, has been getting more promotion and advertising, which buyers will notice.

One car to watch out for, though, is the Kia Optima. It was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show this past April and it will be rolling out into showrooms in late September or early October.

What do you think a certain make and model says about the person driving it?

I think the important thing to remember about Kia, especially now, is that there’s a car for everyone, no matter their personality or their income. We sell cars that range in price from $15,000 to $67,000. I think the latter price tag surprises people because they don’t expect Kias to be luxury cars, but with the K900, we offer amenities that go toe-to-toe against Lexus, Infiniti, and other luxury car makers, and the result is that you can get a 7-series kind of car for a 5-series kind of price.

Phil Smith Kia is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. If you are interested in buying a new Kia, feel free to speak with Mark Haworth. His e-mail address is Mark@PhilSmithKIA.com and he would be happy to serve you. For other sales inquiries, call (888) 318-9375.

Mike Halterman

Mike Halterman has been the editor of Hotspots Central since its launch in July 2016. He joined the Hotspots Media Group family as editor of Hotspots' South Florida magazine in June 2013. A former "40 Under 40" honoree in The Advocate magazine, Mike lives in the Tampa Bay area.

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