Kia America is on a roll. In August, the brand notched its best-ever monthly sales performance, moving 83,007 units—a 10.4 percent jump over the same period last year. The milestone not only marks Kia’s second time surpassing 80,000 units in a single month but also keeps the automaker firmly on pace for its third consecutive annual sales record. Year-to-date sales are now up 8.6 percent, with retail sales climbing an even healthier 10.3 percent.
EVs in the Fast Lane
Electric vehicles are doing more than pulling their weight in Kia’s lineup. The three-row EV9—a contender in the crowded electric SUV space—posted 2,679 units sold, up a striking 54 percent from July. The EV6 and Niro EV also gained traction, up 39 percent and 57 percent month-over-month, respectively. That makes August the fourth straight month of strong EV growth for Kia, cementing its place among mainstream brands successfully moving metal in the electrified space.
The EV9, in particular, is emerging as a halo model. Not only did it achieve its best-ever monthly sales, but it also earned recognition in the 2025 J.D. Power Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study, winning the Mass Market award for “One-Pedal Driving” tech—proof that Kia’s EV push isn’t just about volume, but also about innovation credibility.
SUVs Still Rule the Roost
While EV momentum is grabbing headlines, Kia’s bread and butter remains its SUV lineup. The Sportage and EV9 set personal bests in August, helping drive Kia’s SUV portfolio to its highest-ever monthly sales. The Telluride and Carnival also posted double-digit increases, up 19 percent and 29 percent year-over-year, respectively.
The Sportage, Kia’s longest-running nameplate, is also getting some fresh attention. Kia recently invited journalists to Louisville, Kentucky, to test the updated 2026 Sportage, with particular emphasis on the Turbo Hybrid model. Expect sharper design, improved tech, and a focus on efficiency as Kia continues to refine its SUV lineup.
Sedans Still Showing Signs of Life
In a market that loves crossovers, Kia’s sedans are holding their own. The K5 midsize sedan jumped 13 percent year-over-year in August, while the Forte (K4 in some markets) continues to be a volume anchor with 12,091 units sold. Together, these models prove that Kia isn’t walking away from the four-door formula just yet.
Awards Keep Rolling In
On the recognition front, Kia’s utility vehicles are collecting hardware. The 2025 Carnival MPV and 2025 Telluride SUV each received Winter Vehicle Awards from the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA). For the Telluride, it’s the fourth NEMPA honor, adding to an already decorated trophy case. The Carnival, meanwhile, earns its first class win in the minivan category.
Kia’s August story is one of balance. EVs are building credibility and momentum, SUVs are shattering records, and even sedans are showing resilience. With more than 83,000 vehicles sold in a single month, the brand is proving that its diverse lineup is hitting the sweet spot in today’s market.
As Eric Watson, vice president of sales operations for Kia America, put it:
“These are clear indicators of the strength of the Kia brand and how our diverse product offerings continue to meet customer needs.”
If August is any indication, Kia isn’t just coasting toward another annual record—it’s sprinting there.
Source: Kia America