• Kia EV9 continues its award-winning streak, recognized as the 2026 Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year by the Automobile Journalist Association of Canada (AJAC)
• Canadian Black Book recognizes Kia as the winner for Best Residual Values Overall Brand for Electric Vehicles
• Latest accolades underscore Kia's global commitment to development and delivery of design-led, technology-rich, customer-centric EVs

TORONTO, Feb. 13, 2026 /CNW/ - Today, the Kia EV9 was named 2026 Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. Nearly three years since its launch, the Kia EV9 continues to garner critical acclaim, having earned almost 50 accolades worldwide.

Elias El-Achhab, VP and COO of Kia Canada, commented: "We are honoured to have the EV9 recognized by the Automobile Journalist Association of Canada. Furthermore, the recognition from Canadian Black Book solidifies our efforts and commitment to providing high-quality EVs that Canadians can truly count on."

Evan Williams, AJAC President, commented "Congratulations to Kia and it's EV9 for winning 2026 Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year. The EV9 had been oh so close to winning this award the last two years, but this year one quality crucial to Canadian car shoppers has pushed it over the top. The EV9's starting price has remained unchanged for the last three years, and what was an exceptional family EV now delivers an even more exceptional value."

Where did the ceremony take place, and which vehicles were eligible?
The winners were revealed at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto. All 2026 model-year vehicles were eligible, including:

• Newly designed models that are new for 2026
• Recently refreshed existing models
• Models carried over from last year

Who were the judges?
Based on a respected panel of 50 AJAC jurors and more than 600 ballots completed, the EV9 was selected as the top EV SUV, making the award an important recognition within the Canadian marketplace.

How has Kia performed previously in the AJAC awards?
This latest accolade reflects Kia's previous successes in the prestigious AJAC awards. Since 2005, Kia vehicles have taken 14 category awards and an overall AJAC Car of the Year award. Highlights include:

• 2019 Car of the Year – Kia Stinger
• 2018 Green Utility Vehicle of the Year – Kia Niro
• 2015 Green Car of the Year – Kia Soul EV

Did Kia receive any further recognition at the ceremony?
Kia is also receiving an important nod today from Canadian Black Book as the Best Residual Values Award Winner for Overall Brand, Electric.

This award recognizes:

• Forecasted long-term vehicle demand
• Expected value retention performance
• Confidence in Kia's EV product strategy

Where can Canadians see Kia's latest EV models?
Kia's growing EV lineup, including the EV9, recently launched EV4, and the upcoming EV5, will be on display at the Canadian International Auto Show from February 13 – 22, 2026.

About Kia Canada
Kia Canada Inc., founded in 1999, is a subsidiary of Kia Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. The company employs over 190 people at its headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario, as well as in locations across Canada and at its regional office in Montréal, Québec. Kia offers award winning products that are dynamic, stylish and innovative and services that are meaningful and convenient through a network of nearly 200 dealers across the country. The company's brand slogan – 'Movement that inspires' reflects Kia's desire to create the space for you to get inspired and more time to bring your ideas to life. To learn more, visit kia.ca or Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. 

SOURCE Kia Canada Inc.