Although the influence of Korean cars in the Chinese market seems to be getting weaker and weaker, it is far behind the first-line joint venture brands of Volkswagen, Toyota and Honda. However, in the United States and other overseas markets, the status of Korean cars is still quite good.
Recently, the world car of the year (World Car Of The Year) finalists were announced, a total of 10 models were shortlisted.
The World Car of the Year is a jury of 102 judges from 33 countries who selected the model of the year and is scheduled to be unveiled at the New York International Auto Show on April 13.
The finalists for World Automotive of the Year are:
- Audi Q4 E-Tron
- Seat Formentor
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Genisey G70
- Honda Civic
- Modern Ani Kr 5
- Hyundai Tucson
- Kia EV6
- Lexus NX
- Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ (Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ)
Judging from the 10 models shortlisted, there are four Korean models, namely Hyundai Tucson, Ani Kr 5, Kia EV6, and GenisesYS G70. Three Japanese models Honda Civic, Toyota GR86, Lexus NX. Two European cars, the Audi Q4 E-Tron, formentor. An American car, the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Therefore, four of the 10 candidate models belong to the Hyundai Motor Group. The 2020 Kia Telluride is the first Kia model to be selected as the world's car of the year.
In addition, candidates for each other category were announced.
World Electric Vehicle of the Year Nominations:
Audi E-Tron GT, BMW iX, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Mercedes-Benz EQS.
World Urban Vehicle of the Year Nominations:
Dacia Sandero, Opel Mokka, Renault Kiger, Toyota Yaris Cross and Volkswagen Taigun.
World Luxury Brand Car of the Year Candidate Nominations:
Audi Q5 Sportback, BMW iX, Genises GV70, Mercedes-Benz EQS and Volvo C40 Recharge.
World Performance Car of the Year Nominations:
The Audi e-Tron GT, BMW M3 & M4, Porsche 911 GT3, Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ (Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ) and Volkswagen Golf GTI / Golf R (Volkswagen Golf GTI / Golf R) compete.
World Design of the Year Nominations:
Audi E-Tron GT, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Mercedes-Benz EQS.
For reference, the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was selected as the World Car of the Year, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was selected as the World Luxury Car, the Porsche 911 Turbo was selected as the World Performance Car, the Honda E was selected as the World City Car, and the Land Rover Defender won the World Design of the Year Award.