THE Kia EV9 has been named Best Large Car at the 2024 Autocar Awards, following its introduction to the UK market at the start of the year.

The Autocar Awards are among the most illustrious in the automotive sector, each year recognising the best new cars and most influential brands and people in the industry.

Kia's latest flagship electric SUV impressED the magazine's experienced panel of expert judges for its breadth of ability and the positive impression it leaves wherever it goes.

Autocar's editor, Mark Tisshaw, commented: "The EV9 is a like a car just landed from a sci-fi movie set. People stare at it on the street; they seek you out in shops and cafes to talk excitedly about it and to ask what it's like.

"The positive effect that interest will have for Kia, as the reflected glory trickles down to more affordable price points, could cause yet another shift of gear for the company's European growth curve - which is exactly what halo models are supposed to do."

Paul Philpott, President & CEO of Kia UK, summed up the EV9's significance, describing the model as: "an incredibly important car for Kia, taking us into the large SUV segment for the first time.

He added: "It's currently one of the only true all-electric options for large families, and we have seen a high level of interest from a range of customers, including those looking to take their first steps into electrification. We're honoured to receive this award from Autocar, and it will help our UK dealer network further support and inspire customers on their electrification journey."

This isn't the first time that Kia has been named an Autocar Awards winner. The mould-breaking EV6 won the Best Electric Car award in 2022, and last year, the magazine named Kia as Best Manufacturer for its impressive business growth and compelling overall range of cars.

The EV9 has also proven a favourite among expert judges and juries, being named UK Car of the Year and World Car of the Year since its launch. The design and capabilities of EV9 are also informing the development of future Kia models, including the upcoming Kia EV3, a compact electric SUV due to launch later in 2024.