Which Kia models won
- Best Hybrid Vehicle
- 2027 Telluride HEV
- Best Value
- 2026 K4 Hatchback
- Awarded by
- Northwest Automotive Press Association
- Announced
- Sept. 29, 2026
- Event
- Drive Revolution 2026, Vancouver, WA
Kia took two category wins at the Northwest Automotive Press Association's Drive Revolution event, with the 2027 Telluride HEV named Best Hybrid Vehicle and the 2026 K4 Hatchback named Best Value (opens in a new tab). The awards were announced Sept. 29, 2026.
The Telluride HEV earned recognition for its three-row packaging, technology and premium touches. The K4 Hatchback stood out for its standard 1.6L GT-Line Turbo engine, eight-speed automatic transmission and distinctive design.
Drive Revolution 2026 brought together 17 media members and 20 vehicles for two days of testing around Vancouver, Washington. Jurists evaluated gasoline, hybrid and battery-electric vehicles on ride, handling, powertrains, braking, design, tech and value.
How the awards were decided
The event's testing criteria covered ride quality, handling, powertrains, braking, design, technology and value across the three powertrain types. Kia's two wins came in a field that mixed gas, hybrid and battery-electric vehicles.
"Kia's strong showing at this year's Drive Revolution reflects the strength and diversity of our growing lineup," said Eric Watson, vice president, sales, Kia America. Tom Voelk, NWAPA President, said, "Drive Revolution jurists found a lot to like in the newest generation Telluride and the K4 Hatchback".
What it means for shoppers
The two awards highlight Kia's range across hybrid and value-focused segments. The Telluride HEV's three-row layout and the K4 Hatchback's standard turbo engine and eight-speed automatic are the specific traits the jurists called out.
If you're shopping a three-row hybrid or a value hatch, these two Kia models now carry a fresh independent nod from Northwest media.