Kia has been making headlines in the automotive industry, and for all the right reasons. The recent World Car Awards ceremony proved to be a significant moment for Kia. The brand was awarded the prestigious 2024 World Car of the Year and the 2024 World Electric Car.

A Double Win for Kia

These honours were awarded at the New York Auto Show. These accolades not only recognizes Kia’s excellence in automotive craftsmanship but also underscores its increasing prominence among worldwide enthusiasts and automotive experts.

The winners of these annual awards are determined by a jury of 100 automotive journalists representing 29 countries, including three from Canada. The jurors evaluate new or fully redesigned vehicles on sale in multiple markets and on more than one continent.

Kia’s double win this year was led by its all-electric EV9. This is not Kia’s first rodeo though. The brand previously won the World Car of the Year in 2020 with its Telluride.

Other Recognitions for the EV9

The EV9 has been on a roll this year, also picking up North American Utility Vehicle of the Year; Supreme Winner of the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Awards; and several awards from various publications. In the World Car category, it defeated runners-up BYD Seal and Volvo EX30. In winning the Electric Vehicle category, it defeated the BMW i5 and Volvo EX30.

Other Winners at the 2024 World Car Awards

While Kia’s double win was the highlight of the ceremony, other brands also had their share of triumphs. The BMW 5 Series/i5 took the trophy for 2024 World Luxury Car, over the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and EQE SUV. World Performance Car was won by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, over the BMW M2 and XM.

The 2024 World Urban Car went to the Volvo EX30, over the BYD Dolphin and Lexus LBX, both of which are sold in overseas markets but not Canada nor the U.S.

All finalists in all categories were eligible for the 2024 World Car Design of the Year award, on recommendations by a panel of six world design experts. The Toyota Prius took this award, beating out the Ford Bronco and Ferrari Purosangue.

Alongside these vehicle awards, there is also an award for 2024 World Car Person of the Year. This year, it went to Adrian Newey, chief technical officer of Red Bull Racing. An aerodynamicist by profession, Newey designed the RB19, a car that won 21 of 22 races in 2023.

Conclusion

The 2024 World Car Awards highlighted the relentless pursuit of excellence in the automotive industry. Kia’s double win with the EV9 strongly underscores the brand’s commitment to innovation and design, setting the bar high for future contenders.