Today, the all-electric Kia EV6 was named North American Utility Vehicle of the Year by the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury. This is the second time in three years that the NACTOY jury has named a Kia vehicle its best choice in the category, and the first victory for an electric vehicle (EV) for Kia.
“Since going on sale in early 2022, the EV6 model line-up has illustrated the sophistication and refinement inherent in Kia EV engineering, and North American customers have taken notice,” said Sean Yoon, president and chief executive officer. of Kia America. “In a year with three electric finalists, this victory proves that the EV6 is not only a superior utility vehicle, but also an exemplary EV.”
The EV6 was selected by 50 automotive experts from print, online, radio and broadcast media.
As part of the judging process, NACTOY jurors tested vehicles ranging from sports cars to pickup trucks and evaluated criteria including automotive innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience, and value.
The EV6 continues to rise in popularity. To date, more than 19,000 EV6 models have been sold at Kia retailers in all 50 states, including the 576-hp EV6 GT that went on sale in December 2022.
The EV6 offers amazing performance, ultra-fast DC charging compatibility, available on-board power, and a flat-floor interior that uses innovative materials throughout the cabin.
The EV6 offers a wide range of advanced driver assistance systems, a remarkable level of connectivity features, as well as Kia’s next-generation energy-efficient heat pump, which removes waste heat from the car’s cooling system.
The EV6 is a critical part of Kia’s “Plan S” strategy to launch at least two battery electric vehicles (BEVs) per year and build a full lineup of 14 BEVs by 2027.