AutoAction
FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE SIGN UP

KIA TCR CARS HEADED TO NEW ZEALAND

Kia TCR cars headed to New Zealand - Photo: Supplied

By Bruce Williams

Kia TCR cars headed to New Zealand - Photo: Supplied

Kia TCR cars headed to New Zealand – Photo: Supplied

Another TCR brand will be represented in the Australian and New Zealand markets with the appointment of Choice Performance Ltd as the official agent for STARD (Stohl Advanced Research and Development), the manufacturer of the Kia Cee’d TCR.

“Having recently returned from visiting Manfred and his team in Vienna I am exceptionally excited for this opportunity.” said Chris Little, Choice Performance.

“The development of the Kia Cee’d TCR is world class and a real credit to STARD. We are confident of achieving strong results in the New Zealand and Australian championship with the Kia Cee’d TCR and look forward to fostering our strong relationship with STARD who are exceptionally customer friendly.”

The Pukekohe New Zealand based team, known for their rallying exploits, will import the Kia Cee’d TCR extending their relationship with AndrewSimms.co.nz, the largest Kia Dealer in New Zealand, with the intent of running them both in New Zealand and Australia.

“Kia Motors New Zealand are encouraged with the appointment of Choice Performance as the New Zealand and Australian Kia TCR agents.” said Andrew Simms.

“We are excited to see the results Choice Performance and STARD can achieve with the Kia Cee’d TCR. There is potential to create marketing opportunities for the Kia brand and increase the brand’s exposure to existing and potential customers.”

The Kia Cee’d TCR is a leading contender in a number of international TCR championships with cars run successfully by STARD across Europe and Asia.

STARD are currently in the process of preparing two Kia Cee’d TCR for delivery to Choice Performance which are due to arrive in New Zealand in time for the opening round of the TCR New Zealand Championship at Highlands Motor Sport Park on January 17-19 2020.

“I am very pleased that we are now represented in Australia and NZ with our Stard developed KIA TCR vehicle.” said Manfred Stohl, STARD.

“With Choice Performance and their partner Andrew Simms, who is the largest Kia Dealer in NZ, I see an incredibly strong team that, as the exclusive partner in this region, will best represent our interests and achieve a sporting success in the foreseeable future.”

“Chris Little, whom I know very well from the rally scene, is also a perfect team manager for the project.”

Choice Performance is yet to announce their driver line-up for the TCR New Zealand Series and will be available in Australia for initial discussions about next years TCR Australia Series between October 11-13.

For more of the latest TCR news pick up the current issue of Auto Action. Also make sure you follow us on social media FacebookTwitter, Instagram or our weekly email newsletter for all the latest updates between issues.