The epic Kia Telluride has been crowned World Car of the Year at the 2020 World Car Awards, beating off strong competition from the Mazda CX-30 and Mazda3.
Though not available in the UK, the big SUV was rewarded by the 86-strong judging panel for its distinctive design and impressive practicality.
There was more success for the South Korean car maker when the Kia Soul EV electric crossover WAS named World Urban Car.
It was described as an ideal car for the city by the jury, combining zero-emission performance and impressive electric range with a compact body, bold design, and high levels of practicality.
Porsche also had cause to celebrate. It’s pioneering 100% electric Taycan won both the World Luxury Car and World Performance Car trophies.
“The Porsche Taycan was designed with a clear purpose: To show that an electric car could provide the performance, driving pleasure and everyday comfort and usability that characterises every Porsche,” said Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board, Porsche AG.
“We are very proud that the international jury of the World Car Awards believes that we have succeeded.”
Mazda didn’t leave empty-handed, picking up the World Car Design of the Year. The Mazda3 beat the Peugeot 208 and Porsche Taycan to the title.
Mazda UK Managing Director, Jeremy Thomson, said: “It’s fantastic that the Mazda3 has won such an acclaimed global design award and it’s testament to the work of Mazda’s designers that the Mazda3 can win acclaim for its styling against super tough opposition from across every sector in the industry.
“In the Mazda3 we simply have one of the best-looking family cars in the world, and this award cements that achievement.”
World Car Awards 2020 – the winners
- World Car of the Year – Kia Telluride
- World Luxury Car – Porsche Taycan
- World Urban Car – Kia Soul EV
- World Performance Car – Porsche Taycan
- World Car Design of the Year – Mazda3
