Currently, in its 13th year, the Women’s World Car of the Year (WWCOTY) is an annual award that recognizes excellence in the automotive industry. WWCOTY is voted for by a jury comprising 63 women motoring journalists from 45 countries across 5 continents.
The best cars in each of the 6 categories were chosen from a total of 59 candidates. According to Marta Garcia, executive president of WWCOTY:
“This year’s election was particularly difficult due to the excellent level of all the candidates. Each of the finalists had sufficient merit to win the trophy.”
Related: Winners of 2022 Women’s World Car of the Year Announced
Winners are selected based on a range of criteria, including safety, driving, comfort, technology, design, efficiency, impact on the environment, and value for money. The voting process revealed six winners in six different categories, including urban model, performance car, large SUV, large Car, family SUV, and 4×4. The jurors stated that “no vote was given at random,” as each vehicle was subjected to “demanding driving tests, detailed analysis, and careful comparative assessments.” The 2023 winners of the 6 available categories are:
The 2023 WWCOTY Category Winners
- Best Urban Car 2023 – Kia Niro
- Performance Car 2023 – Audi RS3
- Family SUV 2023 – Jeep Avenger
- Large Car 2023 – Citroen C5 X
- Large SUV 2023 – Nissan X-Trail
- 4×4 and Pickup 2023 – Ford Ranger
Kia Niro having a range of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric models won Best Urban Car simply because it is a versatile and eco-friendly option for drivers who want a stylish and practical crossover SUV.
Being a high-performing sports car, the Audi RS3 grabbed the Performance Car of the year award as it offers a turbocharged 2.5L five-cylinder engine that pumps out 294 kW and 500 Nm.
The Family SUV award went to the Jeep Avenger, the brand’s first-ever zero-emission vehicle, which also won the 2023 European Car of the Year title.
The Large Car award went to the Citroen C5 X, which offers exceptional quality, roominess, and an attractive design, with ICE and plug-in hybrid engine options.
The Nissan X-Trail is the 2023 Women’s World Car of the Year winner in the Large SUV category. Offering plenty of space and the option of 7 seats, offering efficient performance in difficult terrain thanks to its hybrid e-Power technology.
Lastly, the 4×4 & Pickup award went to the Ford Ranger, deemed as being a “reliable, stylish, and charismatic pickup, that moves with ease over any terrain,” and is efficient as an off-roader, but more practical thanks to its cargo box.”
Coinciding with International Women’s Day, the final winner will be announced on 8th March 2023, subsequent to yet another round of voting, with the jurors choosing one vehicle from the above-mentioned six. The final winner will be titled as the WWCOTY World’s Best Car of 2023. More details at the official WWCOTY website.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
