Kia has announced that the all-new Kia EV4 has been officially shortlisted for the 2026 Car of the Year (COTY) award. Selected by a panel of 60 jurors representing 23 countries, the EV4 stands among seven finalists chosen from an initial 35 contenders, highlighting Kia’s continued rise as a global leader in electric mobility and automotive innovation.
This recognition marks Kia’s eighth appearance on the prestigious COTY shortlist — a record achievement for a Korean automaker — underscoring the brand’s expanding influence across the European automotive industry since the Kia Ceed first earned a nomination in 2008.
Fifth Consecutive COTY Recognition for Kia
The shortlisting of the Kia EV4 represents Kia’s fifth consecutive year as a Car of the Year finalist, showcasing its consistent excellence in design, performance, and electrification. Previous recognitions include:
- Kia EV6 – Winner, 2022 Car of the Year
- Kia Niro – Finalist, 2023
- Kia EV9 – Finalist, 2024
- Kia EV3 – Second place in 2025, achieving the highest-ever score for a Kia model
This sustained success highlights Kia’s evolution from a challenger brand to a long-term, top-tier competitor in Europe’s most prestigious automotive award.
Built for Europe, in Europe
The EV4 is Kia’s first all-electric model produced in Europe, manufactured at the company’s Slovakian plant in Žilina on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). With ranges of up to 625 kilometres for the hatchback and 633 kilometres for the Fastback, ultra-low drag coefficients (0.261 Cd hatchback, 0.23 Cd Fastback), and advanced battery options (58.3 and 81.4 kWh) capable of high-speed charging from 10 to 80% in around 30 minutes, the EV4 combines efficiency, versatility, and real-world usability for European drivers.
European engineers at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre (HMETC) fine-tuned the chassis for confident handling, precise cornering, and comfortable long-distance travel. The EV4 also benefits from Kia’s expanding charging network of over one million public points across Europe. Inside, the EV4 embodies Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, offering a driver-focused cabin with intuitive technology including the Kia App, Digital Key 2, and over-the-air software updates for a seamless, connected experience. As preannounced at the 2025 EV Day, the EV4 GT is scheduled to be released in 2026.
“I am proud that the Car of the Year jury continues to recognise Kia,” said Marc Hedrich, President and CEO of Kia Europe. “The EV4 follows in the footsteps of the EV6 and EV3, proving that Kia is not just participating, but competing seriously at the highest level in Europe. Designed, tuned, and produced in Europe for Europe, the EV4 demonstrates that high-quality, responsible electric mobility can be both inspiring and accessible.”
The 2026 Car of the Year winner will be announced at the Brussels Motor Show, with the award ceremony scheduled for 9 January 2026.
