**Hyundai Santa Fe Named Best Large SUV; Kia EV3 Wins Best Compact SUV**
Hyundai and Kia vehicles have been recognized in two of the six categories at the “2025 World Women’s Car of the Year (WWCOTY)” awards, as announced on the 9th. Hyundai Santa Fe won in the large SUV category, while the Kia EV3 triumphed in the compact SUV category.
The WWCOTY jury, consisting of 82 female automotive journalists from 55 countries across five continents, evaluates cars based on criteria such as safety, driving, technology, comfort, efficiency, environmental friendliness, value for money, and gender equality.
This year’s evaluation covered 81 vehicles launched in at least two continents or 40 countries throughout 2024. The categories include Urban Cars, Compact SUVs, Large SUVs, Large Sedans, 4WD & Pickup, and Performance & Luxury Cars.
The Hyundai Santa Fe was praised for its distinctive ‘H’-shaped lamps, linear design, spacious interior, diverse powertrains including 1.6 turbo hybrid and plug-in hybrid, and various practical features, thereby being selected as the best large SUV.
The Kia EV3 received high marks for its impressive one-charge driving range of up to 605 km (based on the European WLTP standard) and various convenient features, as well as its strong price competitiveness.
Last year, the Hyundai Motor Group also demonstrated top product quality as the Kia EV9 was named “Best Car” among all category winners at the “2024 World Women’s Car of the Year” awards.
The winner of this year’s best car among the category winners will be announced on March 6, just two days before International Women’s Day.