Kia America has set another all-time monthly sales record in August, continuing its streak of growth in the US market. The launch of the new 2027 Kia EV3, starting at $29,890 (~AUD 41,722), marks the brand’s push into the affordable electric SUV segment. With strong hybrid and electrified vehicle sales, Kia is aiming for its fourth consecutive annual sales record.
Kia’s Record-Breaking Sales Momentum
In August, Kia America sold 83,793 vehicles, a 1% increase over the previous year and the highest monthly total in the company’s US history. Six models—including the Seltos, Carnival, K4, Telluride, Sportage, and K5—set new August sales records, with the Seltos leading at a 53% year-over-year increase.
Hybrid and electrified vehicles also saw significant gains, with August sales up 99% and 36% respectively compared to last year. The Sportage Hybrid, Sorento Hybrid, and Carnival Hybrid were key drivers of this growth.
Electrified Vehicle Performance
Through the first eight months of 2026, Kia sold a record 590,377 vehicles in the US, up 3% from the same period last year. Hybrid and electrified vehicle sales rose 111% and 60% year over year, respectively, during this period.
However, fully electric vehicle sales showed mixed results. In August, Kia sold 712 EV6s and 1,789 EV9 SUVs, down 60% and 33% from August 2025. Year-to-date, EV9 sales are up 12% at 10,474 units, while EV6 sales have declined 39% to 5,429 units.
2027 Kia EV3: Features and Pricing
Kia sold six units of the new EV3 in August, introducing its smallest and most affordable electric SUV to the US market. The 2027 Kia EV3 starts at $29,890 (~AUD 41,722), positioning it among the most affordable EVs in the US alongside the new Chevy Bolt EV and Nissan LEAF.
The EV3 is offered in five trims—Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT—with both front- and all-wheel-drive options. The base Light FWD model features a 58.3 kWh battery and an EPA-estimated range of up to 221 miles (~356 km). Higher trims use an 81.4 kWh battery, delivering up to 321 miles (~517 km) of range on a single charge.
All trims include a native NACS port, allowing direct access to Tesla Superchargers without an adapter. Charging from 10% to 80% takes 29 minutes for the 58.3 kWh battery and about 31 minutes for the 81.4 kWh battery using a 350 kW DC fast charger.
Official Statement from Kia
Eric Watson, Kia America’s vice president of sales and operations, stated, “Kia is well positioned to maintain the record-breaking sales momentum through the end of the year and ultimately achieve our fourth consecutive annual sales record.”
Why this matters
Kia’s continued sales growth and the launch of the EV3 highlight the increasing demand for affordable electric vehicles in the US market. With competitive pricing and practical features, the EV3 could appeal to buyers considering entry-level EVs.
The strong performance of Kia’s hybrid and electrified models also indicates a broader shift toward electrification, even as some fully electric models face sales challenges.
What this means for buyers
For consumers, the arrival of the 2027 Kia EV3 offers a new, competitively priced option in the electric SUV segment. Buyers looking for affordability, range, and access to the Tesla Supercharger network may find the EV3 an attractive choice.
With Kia’s expanding electrified lineup and ongoing sales momentum, shoppers can expect continued investment in new models and technology from the brand.
Key Specs
- Starting Price: $29,890 (~AUD 41,722)
- Trims Available: Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, GT
- Powertrain Options: Front-wheel drive, All-wheel drive
- Base Battery Capacity: 58.3 kWh
- Base Range (EPA): 221 miles (~356 km)
- Extended Battery Capacity: 81.4 kWh
- Max Range (EPA): 321 miles (~517 km)
- Charging (10-80%): 29 minutes (58.3 kWh), 31 minutes (81.4 kWh) with 350 kW DC fast charger
Source
Images sourced from: caranddriver.com, electrek.co
