UPDATE: The Kia Niro has been voted the supreme winner for Women’s World Car of the year, beating the likes of the Ford Ranger and Audi RS3.

Announced on International Women’s Day, the Niro was one of six vehicles up for the award.

The judging was from 63 women motoring journalists (including AutoMuse founder Liz Dobson) from 43 countries and across five continents to choose their best car in the world 2023.

“We’re thrilled to have Kia Niro recognised as the Supreme Winner of this prestigious international award,” said Managing Director of Kia New Zealand, Todd McDonald.

Before casting their votes, the 63 motoring journalists from 43 countries tested dozens of models and evaluated every detail. In the first round of voting, the best cars in each category were chosen from a total of 59 candidates.

In the second round, these finalists were used as the basis for the selection of the World's Best Car 2023.

"This year's election was particularly difficult due to the excellent level of all the candidates. Each of the finalists had sufficient merit to win the trophy," says Marta Garcia, executive president of WWCOTY. 

USA judge  Elana Scherr said the Niro got her top vote as it “delivers a complete package that is clearly worthy of this award. Its numerous powertrain options, stylish design, easy-to-use technology, comfortable seating and budget-friendly packaging make it stand out among a field of fierce competition.”

Belgium judge, Sabrina Parant, said “after the EV 6 and Sportage models, the Kia Niro offers a flexible vehicle, an attractive design, quality/luxury and a range of engines where all drivers can match their mobility needs”. 

“I especially appreciate the comfortable space and the technology. A car that has everything to please.”

In New Zealand, the Kia Niro is available in a number of powertrains, including hybrid, PHEV, and full electric. It’s priced from $44,990.

“The price point, styling, and variation of powertrains will appeal to Kiwis who are already big fans of the Sportage,” says AutoMuse’s Dobson.

This unique award aims to recognise the best cars of the year and to give a voice to women in the automotive world.

The voting criteria are based on the same principles that guide any driver when choosing a car.

The jurors do not select a ‘woman’s car’ because cars are not gender specific. Aspects such as safety, quality, price, design, ease of driving, benefits and environmental footprint, among others, are considered when casting the votes.