Hyundai Motor and Kia achieved record-high sales in the U.S. market during the first quarter (January–March), extending their streak of all-time highs for six consecutive months. Notably, their sales in March surged by 13%, driven by increased demand as consumers anticipated price hikes due to potential Trump-era tariffs.
According to Hyundai Motor America (HMA) and others on the 1st, Hyundai sold a total of 203,554 vehicles in the U.S. during the first quarter, a 10% increase year-over-year, marking its best-ever Q1 performance. Key models like the Santa Fe (+20%), Tucson (+21%), Palisade (+2%), and IONIQ 5 (+26%) set new sales records, driving the strong results.
Hyundai’s eco-friendly vehicle sales also jumped 38% compared to the previous year, with hybrid models and pure electric vehicles seeing increases of 68% and 3%, respectively.
In March alone, Hyundai posted its highest-ever monthly sales for the month, up 13% year-over-year to 87,019 units. The Elantra (+25%), Santa Fe (+25%), Tucson (+28%), IONIQ 5 (+17%), and Palisade (+20%) contributed to the growth. Hybrid model sales skyrocketed by 72% compared to the previous year.
Randy Parker, CEO of HMA, emphasized, “Hyundai is expanding U.S. production through the operation of its Metaplant and $21 billion in new investments, creating jobs while strengthening its presence through localized production and supply chain improvements.”
Kia also posted its best-ever first-quarter performance, with sales rising 10.7% year-over-year to 198,850 units. The refreshed K4, launched last August, saw a 10% sales increase, while core models like the Carnival (+53%), Telluride (+17%), and Sportage (+11%) also contributed to the growth.
In March, Kia set another monthly sales record, marking six straight months of all-time highs. Sales rose 13.1% year-over-year to 78,540 units, led by volume sellers like the Sportage (16,872 units), Telluride (11,473 units), and Carnival (6,469 units).
Eric Watson, Vice President of Kia America, stated, “Strengthening our product lineup has boosted customer satisfaction, leading to record sales and increased showroom traffic.” He added, “With the EV6 and EV9 now in full production at our West Point, Georgia plant, improved products and supply chains will further accelerate EV sales growth.”
