Kia’s PV5 and the Ford Ranger PHEV have been named the International Van of the Year (IVOTY) 2026 and International Pick-up Award 2026/27 winners.
Kia’s victory marks the brand’s first victory in the prestigious award’s 34-year history, while Ford’s title is its fourth in 15 years for the Ranger.
The fully electric PV5, Kia’s debut light commercial vehicle, impressed the jury with its innovation, design and engineering, securing the top spot ahead of the Farizon SV and Ford E-Transit Courier.
The IVOTY jury voted unanimously to crown the Kia PV5 as the 2026 winner, with the award presented by IVOTY chairman Jarlath Sweeney at the Solutrans 2025 Gala Banquet at Eurexpo, Lyon.
He said: “Well done to Kia on winning the 34th International Van of the Year Award for 2026. The PV5 is the first of a batch of new light commercial models due from the Korean brand in the next few years, so I’m sure we will hear a lot more from Kia in due course.”.
Present to accept the award on behalf of Kia were Marc Hedrich, president of Kia Europe, and Sangdae Kim, executive vice president and head of the PBV Division at Kia Corporation.
Marc Hedrich commented: “Winning the prestigious International Van of the Year award is a true honour and a strong endorsement from some of the most respected journalists in the LCV industry.
“This achievement confirms Kia’s readiness to deliver engineering, design and practicality, strengthening our position as a leading mobility solutions provider.”
Sangdae Kim added: “In 2022, we launched our PBV division with a clear ambition: to redefine the LCV market. The Kia PV5 brings that vision to life and receiving the International Van of the Year award with our very first PBV model confirms we are heading in the right direction.”
The Ranger PHEV was recognised for its innovation in being the first vehicle of its kind in a segment that is struggling with electrification.
Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro Europe said: “We are incredibly proud and honoured that the new Ford Ranger PHEV has been named the International Pick-up Award winner for 2026/27.
“Having won with the all-new Ford Ranger in 2024, we deeply value the recognition the jury has now given to the electrified plug-in hybrid model, demonstrating the consistent excellence and innovative spirit that defines the Ranger lineage.”
