Donalds Group launches new KIA dealership in Ipswich

There’s a new name for Kia in Ipswich, as leading automotive retailer Donalds Group takes the wraps off the latest addition to its dealership portfolio.

Donalds has taken over the previous franchisee’s dealership on the town’s Ransomes Industrial Estate and is already planning significant upgrades to its facilities.

The site – known locally as Buttermans – joins Donalds’ existing Kia outlet in Bury St Edmunds and represents something of a ‘homecoming’ for the group, which also represented Kia in Ipswich from 2005-2008.

Graham Wemyss, Donalds Group Managing Director, said: “Kia is one of the fastest-growing car brands in the country with a range, including award-winning hybrid and all-electric models, that provides something for everyone.

“By taking over the franchise for the Ipswich area we are offering local customers a winning combination of a fantastic choice of vehicles and Donalds’ renowned standards of customer care for both sales and aftercare.”

Initially Donalds’ focus is on ensuring a seamless transition, to maintain service levels for Kia customers in the town. Looking forward, though, the aim is to develop the 1.2-acre site to the latest Kia Global Store Concept standard – which combines a modern, welcoming design with an increased focus on electric vehicle charging. Proposals for the busy workshop, which is staffed by a team of factory-trained technicians, include the opening of an MoT testing lane.

The Kia range comprises hybrid and plug-in hybrid models as well as 100% electric vehicles such as the reigning European Car of the Year, the innovative EV6. Buyers who prefer traditional combustion engine power, meanwhile, can choose from a line-up that stretches from the Picanto supermini to the muscular Sorento. All are backed by the manufacturer’s market-leading seven-year warranty.

The EV6 won its latest accolade after wowing judges with a combination of up to 328 miles of driving range, fast charging capability and sharp design, with an interior featuring copious use of sustainable and recycled materials.

“The EV6 is one of the most stylish and user-friendly electric cars on the market,” Graham Wemyss asserted. “But there’s much more to Kia, with battery-powered, hybrid, petrol and diesel cars to suit a wide range of customers. We’re really looking forward to welcoming customers old and new to our fantastic Ipswich dealership.”

Donalds Group opened its first site in 1950 and has gone on to become one of East Anglia’s premier automotive businesses. The company now operates a network of seven franchises, representing the Mazda, MG and Volvo brands as well as Kia.

For more information please phone 01473 877177 or visit donaldskia.co.uk