Despite Tariffs, Hyundai Hits Sales Records

Despite tariffs and the global economic situation, Hyundai and Kia are making unstoppable progress. Tariffs on vehicles manufactured outside the United States are in effect, but the latest Hyundai Group sales data do not support this conclusion.

Hyundai and Kia recorded another record sales month, with both brands achieving double-digit gains compared to last year.

The parent brand fared best, with a 19 percent increase over the previous year. The Korean company sold 81,503 vehicles across the “big pond,” led by the Tucson with 22,054 units. If it continues at this pace, the compact SUV will surpass last year’s sales results and could break into the top 10 best-selling vehicles in America. In percentage terms, the Tucson is the leading model in the lineup, with a 41 percent increase in sales. The second, with a 30 percent increase, was the Elantra, which is further proof that sedans are by no means a thing of the past.

“Overall sales in April continued their upward trajectory with electric vehicle sales up 25 percent year-over-year, led by strong demand for the Tucson HEV,” said Randy Parker, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America. “The debut of the 2026 Palisade, the seventh-best month ever in terms of total sales and record April sales across multiple models, reflects our momentum and leadership in innovation, value and performance.”

Meanwhile, Kia’s overall sales rose 14 percent. Four vehicles, the Carnival, Telluride, Sportage and K4, set individual sales records in April. The most popular Kia was the Sportage, which found 16,178 buyers that month. The K4 was second with 13,097 units. Percentage-wise, the Carnival outpaced all others with a 79 percent jump. Kia notes that the addition of the Carnival Hybrid package was a major factor in the sales increase.

“Record sales for seven consecutive months have further strengthened the Kia brand, and we remain committed to further strengthening our product line and increasing customer satisfaction through continued innovation,” said Eric Watson, vice president of sales operations for Kia America.

• Also See: In Reaction To The New US Tariffs, Hyundai Will Not Increase Prices.