The Korea Automobile Journalists Association (KAJA) said on the 6th that it selected the Kia "EV5 GT" as the car of March.
KAJA's car of the year selection committee reviews new and facelift models released from the 1st to the end of each month and announces the car of the month. The evaluation items consist of five categories: ▲ interior and exterior design and emotional quality ▲ safety and convenience features ▲ power performance ▲ energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions ▲ product value and purchase intent.
Among the new cars unveiled on the 5th, the Kia EV5 GT and JLR Korea's "New Defender" facelift model were nominated for the car of March. After competition, the Kia EV5 GT received 35.3 points out of a possible 50 to take the final selection.
The Kia EV5 GT scored 8 out of 10 in energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions. It also recorded 7.3 points in safety and convenience features, and 7 points in power performance.
Jeong Chi-yeon, chair of the car of the year selection committee, said, "The Kia EV5 GT is a model that delivers a dynamic driving feel even among electric SUVs through strong performance based on dual motors and a range of drive-focused technologies," adding, "Through front and rear motors, it delivers a generous power output of up to 306 horsepower and maximum torque of 480 Nm, which is impressive."
KAJA counts 60 outlets as member organizations, including major national daily newspapers, broadcasters, wire services, online media, and automotive magazines in Korea, with about 200 reporters from member companies active.