In the world we knew before coronavirus, the 2020 World Car Award winners would have been revealed and honored during the New York International Auto Show this April. With the postponement of NYIAS and in recognition of the widespread impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the 2020 World Car Awards were announced via digital media. Many congratulations to the 2020 WCA recipients KIA, Mazda, and Porche.

The winners of this prestigious award are selected and voted on by a panel of 86 automotive journalists representing 24 countries around the world. 

World Car of the Year: Kia Telluride

Earning the top award this year was the KIA Telluride, named ‘World Car of the Year’ for 2020. KIA was a double award recipient in the 2020 awards, taking both ‘World Car of the Year’ with the KIA Telluride and 2020 ‘World Urban Car’ with the KIA Soul EV.

An initial list of 29 vehicles from all over the world were under consideration for the elite ranking of 2020 World Car of the Year.

World Luxury Car & World Performance Car: Porsche Taycan

The Porche Taycan also sped away with a double win this year. The Taycan won ‘Best World Luxury Car’ and best World Performance Car.’

“The Porsche Taycan was designed with a clear purpose: To show that an electric car could provide the performance, driving pleasure and everyday comfort and usability that characterizes every Porsche. We are very proud that the international jury of the World Car Awards believes that we have succeeded.”

Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board, Porsche AG

World Urban Car: Kia Soul EV

The KIA Soul EV won out over the Mini Electric and the Volkswagen T-Cross for ‘World Urban Car of the Year’ in the 2020 World Car Awards judging. Paired with the most significant overall win of the awards going to the KIA Telluride and the Korean manufacturer has worked hard to prove itself worthy of the accolades.

“It is a great honor for us to see the Soul EV named as World Urban Car. This is one of the hardest-fought competitions in the global automotive industry, proving that the Soul EV is a truly outstanding vehicle for drivers in towns and cities. This accolade is testament to the talents and efforts of a worldwide team, who all strive to create desirable, high quality and practical cars that drivers love.”

Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President and Head of Product Division at Kia Motors Corporation

World Car Design of the Year: Mazda3

“We are truly honored to be able to receive the World Car Design of the Year award in this special year marking the 100th anniversary of Mazda’s foundation. We will continue providing our customers with unique products, designs, technologies, and experiences.”

Akira Marumoto, Representative Director, President and CEO, Mazda Motor Corporation

The top three World finalists for the design award are the Mazda3, the Peugeot 208, and the Porsche Taycan.

The World Car Awards will launch the 2021 season during the rescheduled New York International Auto Show in August, instead of Paris. The rescheduled show dates are August 28 to September 6, 2020. A preliminary list of vehicles eligible for the 2021 season announcements will release at that time.