By Moses Akaigwe

Kia has announced that the Kia EV2 has become the first-ever winner of the RAC New Car Awards’ overall ‘Car of the Year’ title, while also being named ‘Best Small Electric Car’ at the inaugural 2026 awards.

The EV2 has made history as the awards’ first overall winner, gaining significant recognition as Kia’s latest electric vehicle enters the market.

The RAC (Royal Automobile Club) is one of the most respected automotive organizations. Since its founding in 1897, the RAC has served more than 15 million motorists and is recognized for providing independent and credible vehicle reviews.

The EV2 was rigorously tested by the RAC’s independent editorial team against competing vehicles using a comprehensive 10-point scoring system across seven key categories: value, running costs, safety, practicality, ride and handling, interior and technology, and driving performance. RAC experts made the final decision at their Bristol headquarters, with the EV2 becoming the first vehicle in the awards’ history to win the overall ‘Car of the Year’ title.

Kia designed the EV2 to bring the benefits of electric mobility to a broader range of customers, combining accessible pricing with the technology, practicality and driving experience expected of our dedicated EVs.

Becoming the first-ever RAC Car of the Year is meaningful recognition of that approach and further strengthens the EV2’s position as Kia expands accessible electric mobility across Europe and its global EV lineup.

Dan Powell, Editor of RAC’s Automotive Review Program, commented:

“The Kia EV2 is the best small electric car we’ve driven to date. Sensibly priced and easy to live with, it sets new standards for comfort, refinement and range. That premium feel is reflected in the way it drives, while its generous levels of standard equipment make the EV2 outstanding value. Put simply, the EV2 is the benchmark by which all small electric cars are now judged.”

Kia EV2 brings accessible electric mobility to the compact SUV segment

The EV2 is Kia’s newest dedicated electric vehicle, designed, engineered and built in Europe for European customers. This compact SUV combines practical proportions with long-range capability, everyday usability and advanced technology.

Specifications:

Up to 275 miles of WLTP combined driving range

362 liters of cargo space

DC fast charging from 10–80% in about 30 minutes

Kia’s EV Strategy

As Kia’s newest entry in its dedicated EV lineup, the EV2 plays a key role in the company’s broader electrification strategy. Kia plans to offer at least 15 EV models globally by 2030, including both traditional passenger vehicles and next-generation Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) models.

The Kia brand is represented in Nigeria by Kia Motors Nigeria Ltd which assembles some of the vehicles at its plant in the Isolo area of Lagos.

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