Hyundai and Kia posted their highest-ever first-half sales in the U.S., supported by rising hybrid demand even as sales of fully electric vehicles slowed amid model year updates and evolving buyer preferences.
In the first six months of 2025, Hyundai recorded 439,280 vehicle sales, a 10% increase compared to the same period last year. Kia followed with 416,511 units, up 8% year-over-year. Popular models including the Tucson, Elantra, Telluride, and K4 contributed significantly to the growth, especially in their hybrid configurations.
Hyundai’s electrified vehicle lineup, which includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric vehicles, rose 20% during the period. The Tucson hybrid, Tucson plug-in hybrid, and Santa Fe hybrid all posted record sales in both total and retail volumes, reflecting increasing interest in fuel-efficient alternatives to traditional gasoline vehicles.
However, fully electric vehicle sales across both brands showed a downward trend. Hyundai delivered 19,092 units of the Ioniq 5, a 2% decline compared to the previous year. Sales of the Ioniq 6 dropped 9% to 6,322 units, while the new Ioniq 9 SUV recorded 1,013 deliveries. Kia’s EV6 fell sharply by 46% to 5,875 units, and the EV9 declined 49% to 4,938.
These EV sales declines were largely attributed to product changeovers, as both Hyundai and Kia transition their electric models to include the North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug. The shift allows their EVs to access Tesla’s Supercharger network. Most Hyundai EVs now come with the Tesla-style connector, with the exception of the Kona Electric, which remains compatible through an adapter.
Hybrid demand has risen as EV sales growth has slowed compared to earlier expectations. Factors influencing this trend include the ongoing rollout of new EV technologies, delays related to production updates, and uncertainty surrounding EV incentives amid shifting regulatory policies in the U.S.
Despite the EV slowdown, both Hyundai and Kia continue to prioritize electrification. While hybrids are driving immediate sales growth, both automakers are preparing for the next wave of EV models equipped with upgraded charging features and connected vehicle platforms.