Internationale Automobil Ausstellung/International Motor Show, FRANKFURT – HARMAN, the premium global audio and infotainment group (NYSE:HAR), is expanding its longstanding 11-year relationship with Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) by equipping the all-new 2012 Kia Optima with a purpose-built 12-speaker premium audio system from its Infinity brand. The stunning new D-segment Kia sedan goes on sale in the fourth quarter of this year.

With a powerful 550-Watt amplifier and advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP), the Infinity audio system is designed to envelop the vehicle’s occupants with authentic, uncolored sound reproduction from multiple sources and formats, including iPod® and MP3 music players using the built-in auxiliary and USB jacks.

The 12 Infinity speakers positioned in eight locations include two cloth-domed tweeters and two Metal Matrix Diaphragm midrange speakers for heightened sonic accuracy and highly dynamic response. The 100-mm center speaker enhances the sound stage and localizes the performers, while door-mounted loudspeakers augment the image presented to all occupants. A 200-mm Dual Voice Coil subwoofer in the rear deck handles the low-frequency effects for tight, punchy bass.

“The ultimate benchmark of success for an automotive sound system is its ability to deliver a premium listening experience for both the driver and passengers,” notes Sachin Lawande, Co-President, HARMAN Lifestyle and Infotainment Divisions. “With the Infinity premium audio system in the 2012 Optima, we’re confident of the results, and look forward to delighting new Kia customers.”

Infinity is world-renowned for delivering superior sound reproduction and unsurpassed clarity in a broad range of stylish and functional components. From stunning home theater loudspeaker systems, to specially engineered marine applications, to cutting-edge audio systems developed for a wide range of vehicles from Kia Motors Corporation, Infinity speakers and amplifier systems are designed to captivate the listener at home, at work, at play or on the road.

HARMAN will showcase its advanced infotainment designs and features during the IAA/Frankfurt Auto Show, September 15 to 25, 2011. Please visit the HARMAN booth in Hall 8.0, Stand D24 or visitwww.harman.com/automotive for further information.

About KIA Motors Europe

Kia Motors Europe (KME) is the European sales and marketing division of Kia Motors Corporation (KMC), based in South Korea. With its new purpose-built headquarters located in the heart of Frankfurt, Germany, KME is responsible for marketing Kia products in more than 30 countries across Europe. For information about Kia Motors Europe, visit www1.kia.eu.