The Santa Fe’s latest accolade adds to its growing list of global recognitions. (Image provided by Hyundai Motor)
SEOUL, March 6 (Korea Bizwire) — Hyundai’s Santa Fe has been crowned the ‘Best Car’ at the 2025 Women’s World Car of the Year (WWCOTY) awards, the company announced on March 6.
The WWCOTY awards are judged by an all-female panel of 82 automotive journalists from 55 countries across five continents. Vehicles are evaluated based on criteria such as safety, performance, technology, comfort, efficiency, sustainability, value for money, and gender inclusivity.
This year’s competition assessed 81 vehicles launched in at least two continents or 40 countries in the past year. The Santa Fe first secured a win in the Large SUV category in January before being selected as the overall Best Car among all segment winners.
The panel praised the Santa Fe for its distinctive H-shaped lighting signature, bold linear design, and spacious interior. Additionally, its 1.6-liter turbo hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options, as well as a variety of practical features, contributed to its strong performance in the competition.
The Santa Fe’s latest accolade adds to its growing list of global recognitions. Last year, the model was named ‘SUV of the Year’ by Top Gear Awards and also won ‘Best Large Internal Combustion Car’ at the Scottish Car of the Year awards.
Since its global debut in August 2023, the fifth-generation Santa Fe has recorded approximately 320,000 units in sales worldwide as of January 2025.
A Hyundai spokesperson reaffirmed the company’s commitment to innovation, stating, “We will continue striving to develop vehicles that enhance the lives of our customers.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
