Announced during International Women’s Day—a special date because it gives women a voice, but also the link in many countries between the automobile and personal autonomy—the Kia Niro bested five other category winners. The Niro beat out the likes of the Ford Ranger, Jeep Avenger, Citroen C5 X, Nissan X-Trail, and Audi RS 3 to win the honor.

“This year’s election was particularly difficult due to the excellent level of all the candidates. Each of the finalists had sufficient merit to win the trophy,” says Marta Garcia, executive president of WWCOTY.

In the end, and after much scrutiny, the scales tipped heavily in favor of the Kia Niro. Here’s what some of our judges have to say:

“The Kia Niro delivers a complete package that is clearly worthy of this award. Its numerous powertrain options, stylish design, easy-to-use technology, comfortable seating, and budget-friendly packaging make it stand out among a field of fierce competition,” Elana Scherr, USA.

“Kia continues to impress me... After the EV 6 and Sportage models, the Kia Niro offers a flexible vehicle, an attractive design, quality/luxury and a range of engines where all drivers can match their mobility needs. I especially appreciate the comfortable space and the technology. A car that has everything to please...,” Sabrina Parant, Belgium.

“The Kia Niro offers a functional interior, good driving performance, and different powertrains, along with an attractive price that makes it an excellent choice for everyday driving,” Jil McIntosh, Canada.

“The new Kia Niro largely follows the same successful recipe as the old Niro with a choice of both a combustion engine (from hybrid to plug-in-hybrid) and fully electric car. Until its last year of production, the first Niro was an unprecedented success in the Netherlands. No model sold better. We were eagerly awaiting the new upgraded model which did not disappoint. It is smarter, more stylish, more modern, more efficient and slightly roomier,” Odiel Mennink, Netherlands.

“Kia Niro a practical little city car that gives you everything you need in an affordable package,” Renuka Kirpalani, India.

“The Kia Niro is a spacious, stylish, efficient and practical car that is right on trend with its size, design and drive” Petra Mühr, Austria.

“One of the best hybrid vehicles with the best performance and dynamics,” Giovanna Alvarado, Peru.

“Spacious, practical, available with several eco-friendly powertrains (HEV, PHEV and BEV) with low consumption,” Solveig Grewe, Germany.

“A vehicle I would highly recommend to any man, woman or family due to its endless array of safety features, long warranty and spacious interior packed with modern technology. What mother or father wouldn’t feel safe driving their children around in a Kia Niro,” Alix Capper-Murdoch, Republic of Cyprus and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

The Kia Niro is also a Top 3 Finalist for the 2023 World Car of the Year.