IRVINE, Calif., June 6, 2016 – Kia Motors America's (KMA) 2016 Optima midsize sedan and 2016 Soul hatchback have been recognized by Parents magazine and Edmunds.com as among the 10 Best Family Cars of 2016. The prestigious list, which identifies top picks for safety, performance and family-friendly features, will appear in the July issue of Parents magazine (available June 14) and online at parents.com/best-family-cars.

"Kia places a priority on safety as well as packing our vehicles with innovative and easy-to-use features at an outstanding value, and the recognition from Parents magazine and Edmunds.com validates our efforts," said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning, KMA. "The Optima and Soul have numerous features geared toward families who are looking for advanced driver assistance systems, cutting-edge technology, spacious passenger seating and ample cargo capacity."

To create their ninth annual list, Parents magazine and Edmunds.com rated hundreds vehicles in a variety of key areas, including: quality of ride, safety, comfort and capacity, fuel efficiency, kid-friendly features, price and value, reliability and interior and exterior workmanship.

"Kia is one of only two brands with two vehicles on our 10 Best List," said Dana Points, editor-in-chief, Parents magazine. "The Soul is a great starter model for young families, with surprising room at a base price of $15,900. Additionally, the redesigned Optima sedan is striking inside and out, with advanced technology, a smooth ride and better fuel economy than the previous car."