A jury of 100 international automotive journalists from 32 countries selected the winners by secret ballot based on their evaluation of each eligible vehicle as part of their on-going professional work.

Speaking of the award, President and CEO of Kia Corporation Ho Sung Song said: “To be recognized in this way by the World Car Awards’ judges is a tremendous honor. As Kia transforms to become a world-leading sustainable solutions provider, we are leaving no stone unturned to create vehicles which deliver exceptional practicality while also inspiring customers through their ingenuity, technology, and design. This latest prestigious accolade provides further confirmation of the success of our strategy.”

With a combined power output of 430 kW (585 horsepower), the EV6 GT is Kia’s most powerful production vehicle ever. This enables a 3.5-second 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time (faster than a Lamborghini Huracan and Ferrari Roma) and a top speed of 260 km/h.

Putting all that power to the ground, the EV6 GT relies on a dedicated sport suspension system with electronically-controlled dampers and unique tweaks to its front suspension. Traction and stability are enhanced by an electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) when cornering, by directing torque to the wheels with most grip. Larger ventilated front (15-inch) and rear (14.2) disc brakes with monobloc calipers are standard. 21-inch Z-rated tires are also standard.

Performance aside, the jury was won over by the EV6 GT’s long-range capability, spacious interior, and sophisticated design helping it beat competition from the two other gasoline-powered finalists.

Winning the coveted 2023 World Performance Car, the Kia EV6 GT builds on the exceptional offering of the standard model, which has already been awarded the 2022 European Car of the Year and the 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year titles, in addition to other distinguished accolades.

The design of the EV6 GT is in keeping with Kia’s new brand direction, which emphasizes that movement is at the genesis of human development, enabling people to see new places, build new relationships, and have new experiences. Kia seeks to empower customers to make these connections by providing exciting products, innovative in-car spaces, and convenient services that inspire customers and free time for them to pursue the activities that they enjoy most.