3 years ago
This is a little dealership with a big heart! Base...
This is a little dealership with a big heart! Based on my recent experience, I believe that this little dealership prioritizes reference-able customers over volume sales.
Their used vehicle inventory of niche cars is impressive, too (e.g. Audis, Beemers, Rovers, Dodge Hellcats). Chris S. the internet sales manager actively sources premium and luxury used vehicles. So: don't be surprised if you're shopping for a Sorento and end up buying a used Land Rover instead :)
TL;DR SUMMARY:
Good dealership, fair prices, nice selection of premium and budget cars. Chris S. and Shad are excellent. Much better experience than shopping at GoAuto or other large dealerships.
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MY EXPERIENCE:
For context: I am an experienced car shopper (wifey and I are car geeks who have owned many vehicles). I do more product research than most people. I know all about the annoying dealership process of (inquiry) + (test drive time) + (2.5+ hours of negotiating and finance and paperwork). And I know the frustration of dealing with 20yo kids in skinny suits who are selling cars as their first job, but bring no actual decision support help to the consumer.
So, I'm not an easy guy to please. But these guys at N.E. Kia exceeded my expectations on all fronts.
My experience of NE Kia started when I submitted a website form inquiry on a Sunday evening. I was surprised to get a response that same night after the dealership was closed. Chris S. was responsive and attentive to all of my requests for information, and we conversed via text messaging. Chris brought a level of industry knowledge, vehicle knowledge, and customer service attitude that other dealerships should learn from. I particularly appreciated his candor and bluntness as we talked through vehicle and trim options (read: good decision support based on plentiful experience)
Chris and I went test driving the next day. I liked the vehicle and the fair pricing. Total time from when I started negotiating with Chris, to the time the finance paperwork was completed, was 96 minutes (yes, I ran my stopwatch; kudos to Shad in the Kia finance department for his efficiency and warm attitude).
RECOMMENDATION:
If you don't enjoy dealing with GoAuto, young trendy millennials, or other high-volume sales cultures, I definitely recommend visiting these guys and Chris S. instead. These guys are competent and enthusiastic, and they will work harder for your business than a larger dealership.
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p.s. the 2019 Kia vehicles are amazing value for the price! The Telluride, Sorento, and Stinger are standout vehicles. They have a premium-level finish and near-luxury cabin designs. Props to Kia on stepping up their game while keeping their price point affordable!