KIA WINS FOUR AT DRIVINGELECTRIC AWARDS 2023
Kia has once again found success, with four models being declared class winners at the fifth annual DrivingElectric Awards.
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The DrivingElectric Awards celebrate the most efficient cars money can buy. Each category winner is decided by the publication’s judging panel, considering factors such as overall value for money, performance, and practicality.
The EV6 GT continues to further the brand’s reputation as a leader in electrification, being named ‘Best Electric Performance Car’. The all-new Sportage PHEV and Niro, both launched earlier this year, were awarded ‘Best Plug-in Hybrid Family Car’ and ‘Best Hybrid Family Car’, respectively.
Richard Ingram, Editor of DrivingElectric commented on the EV6 GT’s award win: "In a category previously dominated by supercar-slaying German brands, the Kia EV6 GT challenges the status quo and shows its rivals a clean set of heels. The scintillating straight-line performance is only part of the package; the GT is an incredibly capable all-rounder."
The 577 bhp Kia delivers power and acceleration never before seen from the Korean brand, and further emphasises Kia’s commitment to fully electric mobility. The combination of eye-catching design and jaw-dropping performance stunned visitors to the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where the EV6 GT burst onto the scene and made its debut up the famous hill climb.
However, it’s not just the EV6 GT which impressed judges at the 2023 DrivingElectric Awards, with the all-new Sportage PHEV and all-new Niro both adding to their resumé of prestigious awards.
Richard Ingram commented: “Plug-in hybrids are growing in popularity, and if you want a car with a usable range, plenty of kit, and space for the whole family, then little comes close to the new Kia Sportage.
“DrivingElectric sister site Carbuyer.co.uk voted the all-new Kia Niro as its overall Car of the Year only a few months ago, and it goes on to triumph here as well. Spacious, super-efficient and good to drive, there’s no finer hybrid family car currently on sale.”
It isn’t just Kia’s latest models that have won accolades. The previous-generation Niro was named ‘Best Used Hybrid Car’. Ingram said: “New or used, the Kia Niro is a great all-rounder. Those on a budget shouldn’t feel short-changed either; the previous-generation Niro represents great value for money, and could dramatically slash your running costs.”
Having launched both the all-new Sportage and all-new Niro earlier in 2022, 2023 is shaping up to be an equally big year for Kia. Next year, the brand will launch the fully-electric EV9, as Kia moves towards its goal of launching 14 EVs globally by 2027.
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Best Plug-In Hybrid Family Car: Kia Sportage
A 43-mile electric range, generous boot space and show-stopping looks made the Kia Sportage PHEVan easy choice for our Best Plug-In Hybrid Family Car award. As well as being spacious and well-built, the Sportage’s cabin also features the intuitive dual-screen infotainment setup from the flagship Kia EV6. Meanwhile, strong fuel economy and a long list of safety kit make this a fantastic family car. Read our full review to find out more. -
Best Family Hybrid Car: Kia Niro
The second generation of Kia Niro surpassed our expectations with its smart looks, user-friendly cabin, slick infotainment and the impressive amount of space it offered. The new Niro’s comfortable ride and regenerative braking system make it ideal for tackling UK roads, whether around town or cruising on the motorway. Hybrid power boosts fuel economy and lowers your running costs, without you needing to change the way you drive. Read our full review to find out more. -
Best Used Hybrid Car: Kia Niro Mk1
The Kia Niro is a great all-rounder, new or used, and those on a budget won’t feel short-changed by going for a secondhand example. The original Kia Niro represents great value for money and has the potential to dramatically slash your running costs thanks to low CO2 emissions and excellent fuel economy. Read our full review to find out more.
