The Kia EV3 has been crowned the 2025 World Car of the Year (WCOTY), a prestigious accolade revealed at the New York International Auto Show on April 16, 2025. It triumphed over stiff competition from finalists like the BMW X3 and Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric. Following in the footsteps of previous winners from Kia—namely, the Telluride in 2020 and EV9 in 2024—the EV3 marks a significant achievement as it becomes the third model from this innovative South Korean manufacturer to earn such recognition. Additionally, while Hyundai’s Inster/Casper Electric took home the title for EV of the Year and Volvo’s EX90 clinched the Luxury Car Award for 2025, it’s crucial to note that vehicles considered for WCOTY must meet stringent criteria: they must be produced at least 10,000 units per year, priced under luxury levels in their primary markets, and sold across two major car markets on different continents during a specified timeframe between January 1, 2024, and March 30, 2025. The World Car Awards also revealed winners across six other categories. This victory underscores Kia’s commitment to excellence and innovation in electric vehicles.

2025 World Car Awards: Meet the Urban Leader, Luxe Icon, Speed Demon & EV Game-Changer Driving the Future

Introducing the 2025 World Urban Car of the Year: the BYD Seagull. This remarkable vehicle is setting new standards in urban mobility, outshining tough competitors like the Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric and Mini Cooper Electric.

Stepping up to luxury, we have the 2025 World Luxury Car of the Year: Volvo EX90. Its unparalleled elegance and advanced features put it above esteemed rivals such as the Porsche Macan and Porsche Panamera.

For performance enthusiasts, look no further than the 2025 World Performance Car of the Year: Porsche 911 Carrera GTS. With its unmatched speed and handling, it stands strong against formidable challengers like BMW M5 and Porsche Taycan Turbo GT.

Finally, in a world increasingly leaning towards sustainability, we proudly announce Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric as the 2025 World Electric Vehicle of the Year. It proves to be a game-changer amidst notable contenders like Kia EV3 and Porsche Macan Electric. Embrace these top choices that are leading their segments with innovation and excellence.

The 2025 World Car Design of the Year has been awarded to the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a remarkable choice that showcases innovation and style. Competing against strong contenders like the Kia EV3 and the Toyota Land Cruiser/Land Cruiser 250, the ID. Buzz stood out for its cutting-edge design.

In addition, Stella Li, executive VP of BYD, has earned the title of 2025 World Car Person of the Year. Her impressive leadership puts her ahead in a field that includes notable figures such as Ralph Gilles from Stellantis and Simon Humphries from Toyota. The esteemed jury for this year’s awards comprised 96 renowned automotive journalists from 30 different countries. Among them were respected industry voices like Hormazd Sorabjee, editor of Autocar India, and Renuka Kirpalani, consulting editor (video) at Autocar India. Their expertise lends significant credibility to these awards, making them a benchmark in automotive excellence for years to come.