Kia’s PV5 electric van wins top UK honor

Kia's PV5 Passenger multipurpose vehicle / Courtesy of Kia

By Lee Kyung-min

• Published Jun 17, 2026 3:41 PM KST

Kia’s PV5 Passenger, an electric multipurpose vehicle that blurs the line between family transportation and commercial mobility, has been named Best Large Car at the 2026 Autocar Awards, a recognition that underscores the company’s growing influence in the global electric vehicle market.

Kia said Wednesday that the PV5 Passenger received the award from Autocar, one of Britain’s best-known automotive publications, which praised the vehicle’s futuristic design, refined driving experience and efficient use of interior space.

The judges said the model establishes a new benchmark for electric multipurpose vehicles and light commercial vehicles by combining strong performance, competitive driving range and value for money on Kia’s dedicated E-GMP.S platform.

Autocar also highlighted the vehicle’s innovative interpretation of commercial mobility, pointing to its advanced styling, intelligent cabin layout and overall quality.

Mark Tisshaw, editor of Autocar, said the PV5 delivers an exceptional mobility experience through its spacious and versatile interior while offering a surprisingly sophisticated driving feel.

He said the vehicle’s affordability was among its strongest advantages.

Tisshaw also said the upcoming seven-seat version and wheelchair-accessible vehicle variant would make the PV5 an attractive option for families seeking practical transportation.

Kia said the vehicle incorporates a range of technologies developed through the verification of more than 1,000 customer use scenarios, including the dedicated E-GMP.S electric platform, a flexible body system and an infotainment system based on Android Automotive OS specific to purpose-built vehicles.

The automaker said the vehicle is also equipped with a broad suite of driver assistance and safety technologies designed to reduce risk in real-world operating environments.

The award adds to a growing list of international accolades for the PV5.

The vehicle previously won the 2026 International Van of the Year award and recently captured three additional honors.

It also earned the highest five-star rating in the Euro NCAP Commercial Van safety assessment.

This article was published with the assistance of generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.