Electric vehicles (EVs) swept the recent 2025 World Car Awards, with five of the six major categories going to battery-electric models.
The standout winner, Kia’s EV3, was crowned World Car of the Year, beating out the BMW X3 and Hyundai Inster. This marks Kia’s second consecutive victory following the EV9’s win in 2024.
While largely aimed at global markets, the EV3 has attracted international praise, with judges lauding the compact EV-SUV's design and accessible electric platform.
Luxury goes fully electric
Volvo’s flagship EV, the EX90, secured the World Luxury Car title, edging past both the Porsche Macan and Panamera.
Set for a New Zealand launch later this year, the dual-motor SUV features a 111kWh battery, generating 300kW and 769Nm of torque.
The EX90 claims a WLTP range of up to 500km and a 0 to 100km/h sprint in under six seconds - impressive for a three-row family mover.
Small EVs make a big impact
The Hyundai Inster - also marketed as the Casper Electric - won World Electric Vehicle. This compact urban crossover delivers 85kW and caters primarily to East Asian markets, reflecting the growing demand for affordable electrification in dense cities.
In the World Urban Car category, the BYD Seagull (also known as the Dolphin Mini) claimed victory. As BYD's cheapest model worldwide, the Seagull Intelligent Driving Edition delivers up to 405km of range, highlighting how cost-effective EVs are accelerating in regions where price sensitivity is high.
Design and performance still matter
Volkswagen’s retro-inspired ID. Buzz secured World Car Design of the Year, ahead of the Kia EV3 and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
Despite its launch several years ago, the ID. Buzz continues to resonate for its blend of nostalgia and modernity.
The only internal combustion-based winner was the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, named World Performance Car. Now featuring a hybridised 3.6-litre flat-six, the GTS outputs 397kW and 608Nm.
With electric assistance, it charges to 100km/h in 2.9 seconds and reaches 312km/h - making it the fastest-accelerating 911 to date.
All in all, the 2025 World Car Awards signal a clear industry shift toward electrification while spotlighting the regional disparities in EV adoption and regulation.
