Kia EV2 Reaches Final of Europe’s 2027 Car of the Year Award

Kia extends its consecutive run in the competition

The EV2 was selected by an independent jury of automotive journalists from across Europe. Its place among the seven finalists marks Kia’s ninth appearance in the competition’s final round and its sixth consecutive nomination.

The achievement continues a run that began with the EV6, which became the first Kia model to win the overall Car of the Year award in 2022. The brand has since reached the final with the Niro in 2023, the EV9 in 2024, the EV3 in 2025 and the EV4 in 2026.

“We are delighted that the EV2 has been selected as a Car of the Year finalist,” said Soohang Chang, president and CEO of Kia Europe. He described the vehicle as a compact SUV designed around the everyday needs of European customers.

What makes the Kia EV2 a finalist?

Presented at the Brussels Motor Show in 2026, the EV2 is a B-segment electric SUV built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It follows the brand’s Opposites United design philosophy, combining compact exterior dimensions with a flexible cabin and connected technology.

European specifications include two battery options: a 42.2-kWh Standard Range battery and a 61.0-kWh Long Range battery. Kia lists driving ranges of up to 317 kilometers and 453 kilometers, respectively, under WLTP testing. Actual range depends on the version and driving conditions.

The cabin is designed to accommodate different everyday needs. Depending on the market, buyers can choose a four-seat or five-seat configuration. The four-seat version features sliding and reclining rear seats and can provide up to 403 liters of cargo capacity when the rear seats are moved fully forward. As interest in electric vehicles continues to grow, buyers are increasingly exploring the latest electric and hybrid vehicle models available on the market

Technology, safety and European production

The EV2 offers features intended to simplify electric vehicle ownership, including an EV Route Planner, Plug & Charge functionality, over-the-air software updates and driver assistance systems. Kia also reports that the model received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2026.

Production takes place at Kia’s facility in Žilina, Slovakia. The EV2 is the second fully electric model manufactured at the plant, following the EV4.

The model forms part of Kia’s broader effort to expand access to electric mobility through vehicles that combine battery technology with practical dimensions and everyday usability.

When will the 2027 Car of the Year winner be announced?

The overall winner is scheduled to be announced on January 8, 2027, at the Brussels Motor Show. Before the announcement, the seven finalists will undergo another round of testing and evaluation by the jury.

The Car of the Year award, established in 1964, is judged by 65 automotive journalists representing 25 European countries. Its criteria include technological innovation, design, safety, driving performance and value for money.

For Kia, the EV2’s place in the final extends a sustained presence in one of Europe’s best-known automotive awards. The January announcement will determine whether the compact electric SUV can add another overall title to the brand’s record.