Kia America Hits Historic Sales Peaks in Third Quarter

The company’s growth remains anchored in a diversified portfolio, with eight key nameplates—including the Telluride, Seltos, and Sportage—posting double-digit sales increases. Retail performance mirrored the broader trend, climbing 19 percent in September to 70,429 units. Electrified vehicles acted as a primary engine for these gains, with hybrid sales jumping 152 percent compared to the same period last year.

Eric Watson, vice president of sales operations for Kia America, attributed the momentum to a product strategy tailored to various life stages, from the flagship Telluride SUV to the newly introduced EV3. Beyond the showroom floor, the brand secured third-party validation this month, with the 2027 EV3 earning Green Car of the Year honors and the 2027 Telluride receiving the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. These results keep the manufacturer on track for its fourth consecutive annual sales record as it moves into the final months of 2026.