CARY, N.C. -

An exceptional CPO buying experience could just be what some consumers need to seriously consider the new option next time around.

For our Best CPO Dealers issue, Auto Remarketing asked some of the top Kia dealers in the CPO space how they provide a “like-new” experience to certified pre-owned customers.

“For us providing a like new experience for our CPO customers starts with the initial meet-and-greet when they get to the store,” said Patterson Kia of Arlington’s Joe Johnson.

“At that time, a manager introduction is initiated and we begin to share with them what we call the 'Patterson Difference’— outlining who we are, how we conduct business, and communicating their options for purchasing a vehicle from us sets the stage for consideration of a CPO vehicle, as well as a new one.”

Johnson’s store ranked No. 5 among Kia dealers for CPO sales in 2016, selling 670 certified units, according to Kia Motors America.

“Whether that family or individual has come in with an expectation to purchase a new vehicle or a pre-owned vehicle, we want them to have the information necessary to consider all their options with us. By presenting these options, we establish ourselves as the professionals charged with leading them to a decision that ultimately makes the most sense for them. In many cases the CPO is that conclusion,” Johnson said.

In Cerritos, Calif. the Kia of Cerritos store ranked No. 6 with a total of 665 CPO sales in 2016.

Used-car director Mark Near defined via email how his store provides a high-quality CPO experience.

“We understand that in today’s market, the consumer has many choices and we are grateful for every opportunity whether they purchase from us or not,” Near explained.

“After a customer purchases a Kia certified vehicle, just like the purchase of a new vehicle, our product specialist will go over and demonstrate all of the features and benefits of the vehicle. It is our goal to that each customer is completely comfortable with their new vehicle and has a full understanding of how everything functions,” he said.

"In addition each specialist willfully explain Kia’s 10-year/100,000 mile certified warranty details, maintenance schedule and roadside assistance benefits which are also included with the purchase of a certified vehicle,” Near continued.

“Finally, in a few days a follow-up call will be made to each customer to be sure they are enjoying their new certified Kia.We want to be sure everything is working okay and ensure he or she is completely satisfied. We invite everyone to visit us for a free no obligation test drive anytime. We are confident that Kia of Cerritos’ commitment to our customers will provide a superior-car buying experience and will go a long way to earning business.”

The complete top 10 CPO dealers for Kia is below, with 2016 sales included:

  1. Kia of Irvine: 1,130

  2. Garden Grove Kia: 1,071

  3. Shawnee Mission Kia: 692

  4. Cherry Hill Kia: 684

  5. Patterson Kia of Arlington: 670

  6. Kia of Cerritos: 665

  7. Luther Kia of Bloomington: 662

  8. Courtesy Kia of Brandon: 622

  9. Cobb County Kia: 584

  10. Halleen Kia: 573

See all automaker CPO rankings in the Feb. 15 issue of Auto Remarketing.