The Kia EV9 continues to strengthen its position in the automotive industry, securing the prestigious ‘Large Company Car of the Year’ title at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2024. This accolade highlights the EV9’s impressive real-world range and spacious seven-seat configuration, further enhancing its reputation as Kia’s largest and most versatile electric vehicle.
The editorial team at Auto Express conducted a meticulous and comprehensive judging process to determine the award winners. Their evaluation considered a wide array of factors, including price, practicality, styling, technology, safety features, connectivity, and powertrain efficiency, comparing how each vehicle stacks up against its competition.
Since its market debut in January 2024, the Kia EV9 has garnered significant popularity among both fleet and retail customers, with a sales distribution of approximately 60:40 in favor of fleet sales. This balance underscores the EV9’s flexibility and suitability for various needs, particularly for company car users.
One of the key selling points of the Kia EV9 is its impressive benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax rate of just two percent, combined with a remarkable range of up to 349 miles on a single charge. The vehicle also boasts ultra-fast 800V charging capability, offering convenience and efficiency for those with demanding travel schedules. Depending on the selected trim level, the EV9 can comfortably accommodate six or seven passengers, making it an ideal choice for those requiring substantial cargo space or frequent long-distance travel.
Paul Barker, Editor of Auto Express, remarked, “Kia is a brand that blurs the boundaries between mainstream and premium brands, and the striking EV9 is the brand’s poshest car yet. Strong performance, a smooth ride, and aesthetics that offer genuine wow-factor both inside and out combine with genuine practicality thanks to its up-to seven-seat layout.”
In addition to its top honor, the Kia EV9 was also recognized as a ‘Highly Commended’ model in the ‘Large SUV of the Year’ category. Meanwhile, the Kia Sportage received similar commendation in the ‘Mid-sized SUV of the Year’ class, further solidifying Kia’s presence in the competitive SUV market.
Kia’s commitment to electrification has seen its models consistently impress at the Auto Express Awards. In 2022, the Kia Niro won ‘Small SUV of the Year,’ marking the model’s first significant accolade and setting a strong precedent for Kia’s future electric vehicles.
Looking ahead, Kia’s ambitious electrification strategy promises even more advancements for company car users. With plans to expand its EV lineup to 15 models worldwide by 2027, the EV9 will soon be joined by the smaller EV3 later this year. This upcoming model is set to offer a compelling package for both personal and company car buyers in the UK.
Kia’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence continues to propel the brand forward, with the EV9 leading the charge as an exemplary model in the realm of electric vehicles.
