Kia has set a new all-time August sales record in the United States, moving 83,793 vehicles last month. Six different models posted their best August ever, with hybrid sales surging 99% compared to the previous year. Despite the strong performance for hybrids, Kia’s electric vehicle sales declined sharply.
Six Models Set New Monthly Records
In August 2026, Kia sold 83,793 vehicles in the US, surpassing its previous August record by 786 units. The K4, K5, Carnival, Seltos, Sportage, and Telluride all achieved their highest August sales to date.
The Sportage led the lineup with 18,723 units sold, followed by the K4 with 12,881 and the Telluride with 12,693. The Telluride, recently redesigned, has seen its year-to-date sales climb 16.7%.
Hybrid Sales Surge, EVs Decline
Kia’s hybrid models saw a 99% increase in sales compared to August last year, reflecting strong consumer interest. However, electric vehicle sales moved in the opposite direction. The EV6 recorded a 60% drop to 712 units, while the larger EV9 fell 33% to 1,789 units.
Strong Growth for Seltos and Upcoming Models
The 2027 Seltos experienced a significant boost, with August sales up 65.3% to 9,214 units. The model starts at $24,990 (~AUD 34,965), and a hybrid variant is expected to launch later this year.
Kia’s upcoming models include a facelifted Niro and the all-new EV3, which sold six units in August. The EV3 will start at $29,890 (~AUD 41,821).
Soul Discontinued, But Records Still Broken
Kia managed to achieve a new monthly sales record despite discontinuing the Soul, which sold 5,548 units in August 2025 but none last month.
Why this matters
Kia’s record-breaking August highlights the growing demand for hybrid vehicles in the US, even as electric vehicle sales face headwinds. The strong performance of multiple models demonstrates the brand’s ability to adapt to shifting consumer preferences.
The sharp contrast between hybrid and EV sales also underscores the challenges automakers face in encouraging a broader shift to full electrification.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in hybrids will find more options and strong availability in Kia’s lineup, especially as new variants are introduced. Those considering an EV may want to watch for updates on incentives or new models like the EV3, which is positioned as an affordable entry point.
Key Specs
- Total US Sales (August 2026): 83,793
- Hybrid Sales Growth (YoY): 99% increase
- EV6 Sales (August 2026): 712 (down 60%)
- EV9 Sales (August 2026): 1,789 (down 33%)
- Sportage Sales (August 2026): 18,723
- Sportage YTD Growth: 8.5% increase
- Telluride YTD Growth: 16.7% increase
- 2027 Seltos Starting Price: $24,990 (~AUD 34,965)
- EV3 Starting Price: $29,890 (~AUD 41,821)
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, carscoops.com, caranddriver.com
