Kia EV6 is ‘North American Utility Vehicle of the Year’

The Kia EV6 has been named North American Utility Vehicle of the Year by the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury of 50 automotive experts.

It’s the second occasion in three years the NACTOY jury has named a Kia vehicle its top choice in the category, and the first win for a Kia EV.

The EV6 has been recognised for automotive innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience, and value.

“As the embodiment of Kia’s new brand direction, the EV6 is contributing to a dramatic shift in Kia’s brand perception and prestige globally,” says Kia Corporation president and chief executive Ho Sung Song.

“Following numerous prestigious accolades, including the 2022 European Car of the Year Award, this latest honour from the North American Car of the Year jury is further evidence that the EV6 is not only a highly regarded utility vehicle, but also an exemplary EV.”

As part of the evaluation process, NACTOY jurors tested vehicles ranging from sports cars to pickup trucks.

The EV6 delivers exceptional performance, ultra-fast DC charging compatibility, available onboard power, and a flat-floor interior that utilises innovative materials throughout the cabin.

It offers a wide array of advanced driver assistance systems, a high level of connectivity features, as well as Kia’s latest-generation energy-efficient heat pump which scavenges waste heat from the car’s coolant system.

The EV6 is a critical part of the Kia “Plan S” strategy to launch at least two battery electric vehicles (BEVs) annually and build a full line-up of 14 BEVs by 2027.

The Kia EV6 is here now and the GT version and EV9 SUV are due in New Zealand this year.

EV6 specifications were announced in January last year.

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