IRVINE, Calif. -

Spurred in part by sales of its Sportage and Forte models, the Kia Motors America certified pre-owned vehicle program has completed its best first half ever.

Kia dealers sold 39,954 CPO vehicles in the opening six months of 2018, the automaker said in a news release.  That’s up 0.4 percent from the same period in 2017.

Particularly hearty were sales of the aforementioned Sportage and Forte, which climbed double-digit percentages.

June was also especially strong. Certified sales for Kia climbed 13.2 percent year-over-year, as dealers moved 7,255 CPO units.

This was also a record.

“Strong sales gains for Sportage and Forte reflect the broad scope and mass appeal of Kia's world-class model lineup and our CPO program,” said Bill Peffer, vice president of sales operations at Kia Motors America, in a news release.  “The program continues to attract new customers to the Kia brand and positively shape perception.”

In the same news release, Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader executive publisher Karl Brauer added: “Kia’s CPO Program is among the best in the industry, offering coverage terms and benefits that resonate with value-oriented shoppers.

“Now roll in the advanced features and appealing style found across the Kia model line and you've got a recipe for sales growth and customer satisfaction,” he said.