With the arrival of the new Carens in Kia showrooms this October and the C’eed in early 2007, the carmaker is hoping to sign up 31 new dealers by the end of the year.

Kia’s franchise network development team will be targeting independents, small group and plcs as it looks to boost network numbers to 190.

“We’re always talking to potential dealers,” says Stephen Kitson, director of press and PR at Kia. “We’re trying to sign up those willing to invest in the brand and locate at premium sites.” Last year, Pendragon, Reg Vardy and Arnold Clark signed up to the Kia franchise. The manufacturer says it is still in talks with Lookers and Inchcape.

In 2007 Kia aims to sell 6,400 Carens, making it the 11th most popular MPV in the market. The C’eed is set to make its worldwide debut at the Paris Motor Show.

The new Carens