Kia became the first non-European automaker to secure three category wins in a single year at the 2026 Golden Steering Wheel Awards, one of Germany’s most prestigious automotive honors.
The Korean brand claimed top awards in three categories with the EV2, K4 Sportswagon and EV5, achieving a milestone unmatched by any non-European manufacturer in the event’s 50-year history.
Kia’s entry-level electric SUV, the EV2, won the ‘Best Car Under €30,000’ category. Developed specifically for the European market, the compact electric model measures 4.06 meters in length and provides up to 403 liters of luggage capacity. It also delivers a WLTP-certified driving range of up to 453 km (281 miles), placing it among the longest-range models in its segment.
Meanwhile, the EV5 secured victory in the compact SUV category, beating the Audi Q3 and Cupra Formentor VZ5. Launched in December, the electric SUV is comparable in size to the Kia Sportage. It is offered with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with a claimed range exceeding 550 km (341 miles). Depending on the variant, the EV5 can also tow loads of up to 1,800 kg (approximately 4,000 lbs).
In the compact car category, the Kia K4 Sportswagon, introduced in May, took the top position ahead of the new Volkswagen ID.3 Neo and Cupra Born.
The Golden Steering Wheel Awards are presented by AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG. This year’s competition featured 90 new models, from which readers selected 27 finalists across nine categories. A jury comprising celebrities and automotive experts then evaluated the shortlisted vehicles at the DEKRA-Lausitzring racetrack. The assessments covered driving dynamics, comfort, usability, build quality, everyday practicality, sustainability and overall value.
In Europe, Kia’s electric vehicle portfolio spans multiple segments, ranging from the entry-level EV2 to the EV3, EV4, EV5, EV6, the three-row EV9 and the PV5 van. However, the automaker has no plans to introduce the EV2 or EV5 in the US market. The EV3 is already available in the country and previously won the 2024 Golden Steering Wheel award as the ‘Best Car Under €40,000.’
The 2027 Kia EV3 carries a starting price of $29,890, positioning it among the more affordable electric vehicles available in the U.S. market. The model is offered in five trims and with two battery options. The entry-level EV3 Light is equipped with a 58.3-kWh battery providing up to 221 miles of range, while the Wind, Land, GT-Line and GT variants feature an 81.4-kWh battery delivering up to 321 miles of range.
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