Kia PV5 crowned ‘Van of the Year’ in triple win at What Car? Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards

What Car? names the Kia PV5 its overall 'Van of the Year'
Kia PV5 Cargo named 'Best Small Electric Van'
Kia PV5 Passenger named 'Best Van-Based MPV'
Awards highlight PV5's balance of payload capacity, versatility, ease of use and long-distance comfort, and effectiveness of Kia’s global PBV strategy

The Kia PV5 has earned three major honors at the 2026 What Car? Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards, including the prestigious ‘Van of the Year’ title. These achievements mark an important milestone in Kia’s fast-growing presence in the light commercial vehicle sector.

The PV5 is Kia’s first electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV), developed with a completely new design and supporting ecosystem. Built on the dedicated E-GMP.S (Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service) architecture, it represents a key step in Kia’s European growth strategy for its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) line-up.

In appreciation of this award, Sjoerd Knipping, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Europe, said, “Winning the prestigious 2026 What Car? ‘Van of the Year’ Award demonstrates the Kia PV5’s strong relevance across varied markets and customer needs, while also underscoring the model’s growing recognition at a European level. With both the Cargo and Passenger versions honored, the PV5 showcases the versatility, quality, and reliability that customers across Europe expect from a modern eLCV. As we continue to expand our PBV line-up, the PV5 stands at the heart of our ambition to deliver innovative, customer-centric mobility solutions that empower businesses and families alike on their journey toward electrified mobility.”

What titles has the Kia PV5 won at the 2026 What Car? Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards?

The Kia PV5 Cargo and the PV5 Passenger have been recognized across multiple categories at the 2026 What Car? Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards, and have secured the following titles:

Overall 'Van of the Year' (PV5 Cargo)
'Best Small Electric Van' (PV5 Cargo)
'Best Van-Based MPV' (PV5 Passenger)

Why did the PV5 Cargo win ‘Best Small Electric Van’ and ‘Van of the Year’?

The PV5 Cargo’s recognition reinforces its position as a benchmark in the electric light commercial vehicle segment, highlighting Kia’s commitment to delivering purpose-built, future-ready mobility solutions for businesses of every size.

Judges praised the PV5 Cargo for its:

Perfect blend of payload capacity and versatility
Ease of use
Long-distance comfort
Accessible price

They also noted its real-world range, fast-charging capability and comprehensive aftercare package, which together help minimize downtime and provide long-term reassurance for operators.

Steve Huntingford, What Car? Editor, commented, “The new Kia PV5 combines the payload capabilities businesses will expect, with the sort of ease of use and long-distance comfort they might not. Its real-world range strikes a good balance between being enough for a full day of work without pushing costs too high, and thanks to fast charging capabilities, downtime for fleets is kept to a minimum. The PV5 is also backed up by one of the most comprehensive aftercare packages around, providing long-term reassurance for operators.”

Why was the PV5 Passenger named ‘Best Van-Based MPV’ by WhatCar?

The PV5 Passenger impressed judges with its car-like refinement, passenger comfort and smooth ride. With a range of up to 412 kilometres and ample space for five adults and their luggage, it is positioned as a versatile electric people carrier suited to a wide range of customer needs.

“It’s an exceptionally difficult challenge for a van-based MPV to offer all the comfort and refinement car buyers expect, but it’s one which the Kia PV5 has mastered,” said Huntingford. “With flexible, comfortable seating, a quiet yet composed ride and a long range, the PV5 will fit seamlessly into the lives of many larger families. And, as with the rest of Kia's car range, the PV5 is backed up by the brand's impressive seven-year warranty.”

How is the PV5 gaining recognition on a global scale?

A growing list of accolades and achievements highlights the PV5’s competitiveness in safety, efficiency and real-world capability. These include recognition for:

What are the key features of the Kia PV5?

The Kia PV5 is available in both Cargo and Passenger variants, each designed for maximum versatility in commercial or personal use.

All variants are powered by a front-mounted motor, offering three battery options for cargo (43.3 kWh, 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh), two battery options for passenger (51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh)and modular exterior components that reduce repair complexity.

The PV5 offers an all-electric range (WLTP) of up to 416 km for Cargo Long and 412 km for Passenger 5-seater. It also delivers DC fast charging from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes, and a payload capacity of up to 790 kg for Cargo Long.