The global automotive landscape is in a period of unprecedented transformation, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the charge towards a sustainable and technologically advanced future. At the forefront of this movement, one vehicle has emerged to claim the most coveted prize in the industry. On April 16th, 2025, during a live announcement at the New York International Auto Show, the Kia EV3 was officially crowned the '2025 World Car of the Year'. This prestigious award, judged by a panel of 96 esteemed automotive journalists from 30 countries, represents a uniquely global and expert endorsement of the EV3’s product excellence and Kia's vision for the future.
This victory for the EV3 is not an isolated event but a significant milestone in a consistent trend. The World Car Awards have increasingly recognised electric vehicles in their top categories, signalling a fundamental shift in what constitutes a benchmark vehicle in the modern era.
In 2025, several of the category winners were electric or electrified, including the Hyundai Inster as World Electric Vehicle, the Volvo EX90 as World Luxury Car, and the Volkswagen ID. Buzz for World Car Design of the Year. This trend has been well-established over the past few years, with the Kia EV9 taking the title in 2024, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 in 2023, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 in 2022. The consistent choice of EVs as the top vehicle underscores that the global industry now largely equates the concept of a "best new car" with the "best new electric vehicle."
For Kia, the EV3's win also marks its third consecutive year of recognition by the World Car Awards, following the EV6 GT's 'World Performance Car' crown in 2023 and the EV9's dual 'World Car of the Year' and 'World Electric Vehicle' titles in 2024. The EV3's triumph shows a strategic evolution for the brand, as it takes the "large-scale innovation" and design DNA of its flagship EV9 and distils it into a more accessible, everyday package without compromising features or performance. This makes the EV3 an incredibly compelling option for a much wider audience, showcasing Kia's ability to not only innovate at the top but also to democratise its leading-edge technology.
Design and Technology: A Vision for the Future
The Kia EV3 captivated the jury with its bold design and forward-thinking, user-centric features. Its styling is a clear execution of Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy, which successfully blends emotional appeal with logical form. On the outside, the EV3 presents a confident silhouette with strong, geometric lines and refined details such as a slim C-pillar and vertical headlamps, all of which contribute to a premium and futuristic aesthetic.
The design is equally revolutionary inside, where the EV3 defies expectations for a compact SUV by delivering exceptional space efficiency with a practical five-seat layout. The cabin brings to life the concept of a "living space on wheels" with features that prioritise comfort, flexibility, and innovation. The interior is tailored to modern lifestyles, featuring a highly flexible and spacious environment with thoughtful materials and an ergonomic design. A sliding centre console table and an ultra-wide display are just a few examples of how every detail has been considered to offer a comfortable and flexible experience.
Underneath its stylish exterior, the EV3 is equipped with cutting-edge technology that is rarely seen in its segment. Central to the user experience is Kia's AI assistant, which is designed to offer a more intuitive and connected driving experience. The vehicle is also future-proofed with Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, which allow it to remain up-to-date with the latest performance optimisations and new feature rollouts long after it has left the showroom. These advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and connectivity features played a significant role in the EV3's ability to stand out and set a new standard for the compact electric SUV category.
Redefining Performance and Practicality
The EV3’s success is built on a foundation of real-world practicality, directly addressing one of the most common concerns for prospective EV drivers: range anxiety. The vehicle boasts a segment-leading driving range of up to 605 km, or 375 miles, according to the WLTP measurement procedure. This impressive range makes the EV3 a viable choice for not only city commuting but also for long-distance journeys.
Efficiency and practicality are further cemented by its ultra-fast charging capabilities. The EV3 can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes, allowing drivers to quickly top up and get back on the road with minimal disruption. This balance of outstanding performance, class-leading range, and rapid charging demonstrates a comprehensive approach to making electric mobility both desirable and convenient for a global audience.
Worthy Mentions: A Look at the Competition
While the Kia EV3 rightfully takes the top prize, the automotive market is rich with excellent alternatives. These vehicles, though not the overall winners, represent different design philosophies and priorities that make them compelling choices in their own right. Here is a look at a few other standout vehicles that demonstrate the diversity and innovation present in the current market.
Renault 5 E-Tech: The Small, Retro Electric Hatchback
The Renault 5 E-Tech is a fantastic example of a modern car that pays homage to a classic design. Described as an "electric pop icon," this small electric hatchback has a retro-inspired look that is also packed with technological marvels, such as vertical rear lights that improve aerodynamics.
On the technology front, the Renault 5 is equipped with a unique "reno^" avatar that acts as a travel companion and an OpenR link multimedia system with Google built-in, providing access to real-time navigation and up to 100 apps. The car also features a bi-directional charger, which, with the right adaptor, can store and send electricity to power external devices like an air pump or an electric bike. With a powertrain offering up to 150 hp and a driving range of up to 250 miles, it promises responsive performance and excellent practicality for a city car. Fast charging capabilities allow it to go from 15% to 80% range in just 30 minutes, further adding to its appeal.
Tesla Model 3 Performance: The Popular and Impressive Electric Rocket
For those who crave thrilling performance, the Tesla Model 3 Performance lives up to its "electric rocket" reputation. The latest generation of this vehicle features a new drive unit that delivers a peak power of 460 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a staggering 2.9 seconds. Its top speed is an equally impressive 163 mph.
The Model 3 Performance is not just about straight-line speed; it also features an all-new adaptive damping system and a dedicated "Track Mode" for enhanced handling and control. Aerodynamic enhancements, including a carbon fiber spoiler, reduce drag and improve stability at high speeds. With a WLTP driving range of 328 miles, it strikes a commendable balance between performance and practicality. The interior features a minimalist design centred around a large 15.4" main touchscreen and an additional 8" rear touchscreen, providing a modern and connected driving experience.
Vauxhall Grandland: An Impressive Car for the Budget
The Vauxhall Grandland is a compelling choice for a different kind of driver—one who prioritises practicality, comfort, and value above all else. The car is celebrated as a "practical family SUV" that offers an "excellent blend of practicality and value". One review famously compares the Grandland to buying a "six pack of plain pants" from a supermarket—not exciting, but undeniably good value and perfectly fit for purpose.
This vehicle offers a spacious and comfortable interior, particularly at higher speeds, with a generous boot space of up to 550 litres. It comes equipped with a good standard safety kit, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, providing a sense of security and confidence for family journeys. While it may not offer the same performance thrills as some of its competitors, its competitive starting monthly price makes it an accessible and smart financial choice for many families.
Making a Champion Yours with AA Leasing
For many, driving one of these new, award-winning vehicles is a dream. Car leasing offers a flexible and accessible way to make that dream a reality without the long-term financial commitment of ownership. By choosing to lease, you can enjoy predictable monthly costs, the opportunity to drive a brand new, technologically advanced car every few years, and the peace of mind that comes with a new vehicle. The AA is here to help you explore the latest leasing options for the Kia EV3 and other top vehicles, making it easier than ever to get behind the wheel of a champion.