Kia Corporation has won the prestigious 2023 World Performance Car title with its all-electric EV6 GT, beating out competition from more traditional petrol-powered sports cars. The award was announced at the New York International Auto Show and recognised by a jury of 100 international automotive journalists representing 32 countries.

With a combined power output of 430 kW (577bhp), the EV6 GT boasts a 3.5-second 0-62mph acceleration time and a top speed of 162mph. The vehicle’s long-range capability, spacious interior, and sophisticated design are in keeping with Kia’s new brand iadirection, which seeks to empower customers to make connections and inspire them through innovative in-car spaces and convenient services.

Kia’s President and CEO, Ho Sung Song, commented on the award, saying, “As Kia transforms to become a world-leading sustainable solutions provider, we are leaving no stone unturned to create vehicles which deliver exceptional practicality while also inspiring customers through their ingenuity, technology, and design. This latest prestigious accolade provides further confirmation of the success of our strategy.”

The EV6 GT builds on the standard model, which has already been awarded the 2022 European Car of the Year and the 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year titles, as well as other distinguished accolades. The design of the vehicle reflects Kia’s new brand direction, emphasising that movement is at the genesis of human development and enabling people to have new experiences and pursue their passions.

The award is a significant achievement for Kia, given the range of vehicles evaluated by the jury, including many from established premium manufacturers. The recognition of the EV6 GT’s exceptional performance serves as further validation of Kia’s commitment to producing innovative mobility solutions that benefit society, in line with its ‘Movement That Inspires’ ethos.

Kia’s dedication to creating exceptional practicality and inspiring design has been recognised through its many accolades, and the company’s success with the EV6 GT reinforces its position as a world-leading sustainable solutions provider. With the EV6 GT, Kia has demonstrated that electric vehicles can deliver thrilling performance without compromising on practicality or design, setting the benchmark for the future of mobility.