byGrace Buchan/11 November 2025/inElectric Vehicle News, Kia News

The Kia EV4 shortlisted for 2026 Car of the Year

The wait is over, the all-new Kia EV4 has arrived in New Zealand, bringing bold design, advanced electric performance, and exceptional range to drivers in Christchurch and across Canterbury. Available now at Miles Kia, the EV4 is Kia’s first electric model produced in Europe and a finalist for the prestigious 2026 Car of the Year award.

With up to 633 kilometres of range, and ultra-fast charging, the EV4 combines European refinement with Kia’s forward-thinking electric innovation. Learn more about this award-nominated model below, as shared in the official Kia New Zealand press release below.

The EV4 Hatchback is Kia’s first EV produced in Europe
Designed to fit all lifestyles, the EV4 combines electric efficiency with the freedom to choose from two body types, delivering up to 633 kilometres of range
Shortlisted for COTY 2026, marking Kia’s fifth consecutive finalist appearance.

Press release from Kia NZ:

The Kia EV4 has been officially shortlisted for the final round of the 2026 Car of the Year (COTY) award. Selected by 60 jurors from 23 countries, the EV4 is one of just seven finalists from a long list of 35 models. This milestone marks Kia’s eighth COTY shortlist — an unparalleled achievement for a Korean brand — and highlights Kia’s growing influence in the European automotive industry since the Kia Ceed first made the shortlist in 2008.

Even more remarkable, this is Kia’s fifth consecutive year as a COTY finalist: following the EV6’s win in 2022, the Niro in 2023, the EV9 in 2024, and the EV3’s record-breaking second place in 2025, earning the highest number of points that a Kia model has ever received. This consistent performance establishes Kia as a serious, long-term contender in Europe’s most prestigious automotive competition.

The EV4 is Kia’s first all-electric model produced in Europe, manufactured at the company’s Slovakian plant in Žilina on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). With range of up to 633 kilometres for the Fastback, ultra-low drag coefficient (0.23 Cd Fastback), and an advanced battery (81.4 kWh) capable of high-speed charging from 10 to 80% in around 30 minutes, the EV4 combines efficiency, versatility, and real-world usability.

The 2026 Car of the Year winner will be announced at the Brussels Motor Show, with the award ceremony scheduled for 9 January 2026.

Discover Kia EV4 Explore Miles Kia