Kia just hit a major milestone, setting an all-time record for U.S. sales last year with over 852,155 vehicles sold. Yet despite these impressive numbers, the company’s electric vehicle lineup faced some serious challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Kia set a new record for total U.S. sales in 2025 with over 852,155 vehicles sold.
- The Sportage and Carnival SUVs were the stars of Kia’s lineup last year.
- EV6 and EV9 sales dropped sharply by nearly two-thirds compared to December 2024.
Kia’s success story in 2025 was led by strong performance from its Sportage, K4 sedan, Telluride SUV, and the minivan Carnival. The Carnival’s year-over-year sales growth of 44% is particularly impressive. But behind these headline numbers lies a concerning trend for Kia’s EV lineup.
December saw some eye-catching drops in electric vehicle deliveries. While the Niro’s December sales surged by over 75%, the EV6 and EV9 both fell off sharply, with declines of nearly two-thirds compared to the previous year. It raises questions about whether buyers are warming up less to these models.
The Soul hatchback also struggled last month, dropping a significant 32% in December sales. This follows similar trends seen across other small car segments as consumers increasingly opt for larger SUVs and crossovers instead of compact cars.
It’s not all doom and gloom though; Kia’s overall growth is still strong thanks to its traditional lineup. However, the sharp drop-off in EV deliveries suggests a growing disconnect between what customers want now versus where Kia wants to take the brand long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Kia’s top-selling models?
The Sportage SUV led sales, followed closely by the K4 sedan. The Carnival minivan also saw significant growth compared to 2024.
Why did EV6 and EV9 sales drop so much in December?
Kia’s electric vehicle segment faced steep declines, possibly due to increased competition from other automakers entering the market or changes in consumer preferences towards SUVs over compact cars.
In summary, while Kia enjoyed an all-time high year in 2025 with strong sales across many of its models, it’s facing a significant challenge in getting American buyers to embrace its electric vehicles. As competition heats up and customer tastes evolve, Kia will need to adapt quickly.
