In a groundbreaking achievement, the Kia EV9 electric SUV has clinched the prestigious Drive Car of the Year 2024 award, marking a significant milestone as the first electric vehicle to do so in the 18-year history of the awards program.
Out of the 18 category winners, six cars were in contention for the overall award, including the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Kona, Kia EV9, Mercedes-Benz GLC, MG 4, and Tesla Model 3. Ultimately, the EV9 stood out for its remarkable contribution to advancing the automotive landscape for Australian consumers.
The judges at Drive evaluate candidates based on their capacity to propel the industry forward, and the EV9 impressed on multiple fronts. Even for those not yet ready to embrace full electric vehicles or not considering a purchase in the EV9’s price range, its victory signifies a significant shift in the perception of electric cars as viable options for Australian families.
As the winner of the Best Family Electric Vehicle under $100K category, the EV9 embodies the future families are seeking: a practical and versatile seven-seat SUV coupled with cutting-edge electrification for a seamless, eco-friendly driving experience.
Damien Meredith, CEO of Kia Australia, expressed his delight at the recognition, emphasizing the EV9’s status as a trailblazing model within Kia’s diverse lineup. With its advanced technology, extensive battery range, and locally tuned suspension, the EV9 represents a bold leap forward in the automotive landscape.
The win marks Kia’s third victory in the Drive Car of the Year awards in the past four years, following the success of the 2021 Kia Sorento and the 2022 Kia Sportage. Additionally, the EV9 joins the ranks of notable seven-seat SUV winners while making history as the first fully-electric vehicle to claim the top prize.
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