Kia Sales Data, Trends, Analysis & Current Lineup for the U.S Automotive Market
This is your hub for all of the Kia sales data for the U.S market. Kia is the sister brand of Hyundai of South Korea, and has improved similarly in terms of quality, image and sales volume in the United States in the past decade. Although Kia still lags Hyundai in terms of brand perception, it has come a long way from being a low-quality budget brand. The Kia Soul adds some flair to the brand’s bland image, the K900 and Stinger, while not giving BMW or Mercedes-Benz any immediate fears, prove that there is a market for value-for-money luxury sedans without the premium badge, and the Telluride large SUV is pushing the average transaction price of the brand up further.
Kia is a part of the Hyundai Motor Group that also has the Hyundai and Genesis brands of passenger cars in its portfolio. Together they are now the world’s 4th largest car manufacturer behind Volkswagen, Toyota and General Motors. The brand entered the highly competitive US market in 1992, when Kia Motors America was set up. The Sephia and Sportage were some of the models that helped establish the brand in the early days. It is one of the fastest growing brand in the US after seeing its market share continuously grow for the last 18 years.
Today, Kia-branded vehicles that are sold in the US ranges from subcompact to full-size models. Kia also makes compact and midsize SUVs. What makes Kia incredibly appealing to customers is because they offer a long list Kia of standard features in its cars and SUVs which are not usually offered by other car manufacturers for their vehicles.
Kia U.S Sales Figures & Recent Highlights
Despite being a foreign brand and the huge number of more established brands, Kia is having tremendous success in the US car market. They have competed against many major car manufacturers and has a strong control of its market share in the US. As you can see from the table below, from 2010 to 2019 Kia holds a 3% market share in the US as an average. You can see just how much the South Korean brand has increase its reputation, image, and sales volume from the past decade. The Optima mid-sized sedan, Soul small car and Forte compact car are Kia’s best selling sedans in the United States and the Sorento mid-sized crossover is the brand’s best selling SUV.
Currently Kia produces its best selling US models Optima and Sorento in its West Point, GA factory, while its other models for the US market are imported from its factories in South Korea. The Optima midsized sedan, Soul small car and Forte compact car are Kia’s best selling sedans in the United States and the Sorento midsized crossover is the brand’s best selling SUV.
Kia sales in the US have been on a steady increase in recent years. In 2021, Kia sold over 677,494 vehicles in the US. This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including the popularity of Kia’s SUVs, such as the Telluride and Sportage, and the introduction of new, fuel-efficient vehicles, such as the Niro EV. 2022 Saw growth again, to 678,485 cars.
Kia is well-positioned for continued growth in the US market. The company has a strong lineup of vehicles, and it is investing heavily in new technologies, such as EVs and safety features. Kia is also expanding its dealer network, which will make it easier for customers to purchase and service their vehicles. Kia is also expanding its dealer network in the US. The company plans to add 100 new dealerships by 2025.
Kia Monthly Sales Data in the U.S
Below we have a table that shows Kia sales for the United States automotive market, but this time it is broken out by month. This is on a unit basis. This is Kia new vehicle sales in the US.
Kia Annual Sales, Growth & Market Share in the United States
Below we have a table that shows total Kia sales volumes for the US automotive market, broken out by year. This data captures all Kia vehicle sales for the entire United States automotive market.
| Year | Sales | YOY Change | US Marketshare | Marketshare Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | 692 | 0.00 | 0.03 | 0.00 |
| 1994 | 12,329 | 1,681.65 | 0.51 | 95.09 |
| 1995 | 16,725 | 35.66 | 0.61 | 16.43 |
| 1996 | 26,366 | 57.64 | 0.96 | 35.85 |
| 1997 | 35,494 | 34.62 | 1.22 | 21.82 |
| 1998 | 54,311 | 53.01 | 1.74 | 29.75 |
| 1999 | 82,211 | 51.37 | 2.77 | 37.28 |
| 2000 | 67,893 | -17.42 | 2.42 | -14.52 |
| 2001 | 64,085 | -5.61 | 2.82 | 14.04 |
| 2002 | 39,088 | -39.01 | 1.64 | -71.45 |
| 2003 | 50,628 | 29.52 | 2.50 | 34.34 |
| 2004 | 61,149 | 20.78 | 4.37 | 42.71 |
| 2005 | 328,688 | 437.52 | 1.92 | -127.58 |
| 2006 | 351,320 | 6.89 | 2.11 | 8.90 |
| 2007 | 345,966 | -1.52 | 2.13 | 1.16 |
| 2008 | 300,312 | -13.20 | 2.25 | 5.33 |
| 2009 | 327,461 | 9.04 | 3.12 | 27.72 |
| 2010 | 378,092 | 15.46 | 3.23 | 3.40 |
| 2011 | 509,542 | 34.77 | 3.94 | 18.20 |
| 2012 | 620,149 | 21.71 | 3.97 | 0.72 |
| 2013 | 542,248 | -12.56 | 3.46 | -14.79 |
| 2014 | 592,101 | 9.19 | 3.58 | 3.37 |
| 2015 | 662,573 | 11.90 | 3.79 | 5.42 |
| 2016 | 700,862 | 5.78 | 3.98 | 4.95 |
| 2017 | 613,483 | -12.47 | 3.55 | -12.19 |
| 2018 | 607,601 | -0.96 | 3.50 | -1.55 |
| 2019 | 630,544 | 3.78 | 3.70 | 5.44 |
| 2020 | 599,195 | -4.97 | 4.07 | 9.22 |
| 2021 | 677,494 | 13.07 | 4.53 | 10.09 |
| 2022 | 678,485 | 0.15 | 4.96 | 8.60 |
| 2023 | 782,468 | 15.33 | 5.04 | 1.58 |
| 2024 | 650,168 | 0.00 | 5.17 | 0.00 |
Kia U.S Annual Sales Units & Growth Chart
Below is a visual representation of Kia’s U.S sales units over time. We have both the Kia sales units and the growth in the United States market. Click on the items in the legend to see each series by itself.
Kia U.S Growth Rate & Market Share Chart
Below is the annual growth rate for the Kia brand in the United States, shown against the Kia’s marketshare changes in the United States. This gives you a good look into how Kia has faired against the other brands in terms of absolute sales and effect on marketshare. Click on the items in the legend to see each series by itself.
The Best-Selling Kia Cars & SUVs in the United States
- Kia Sportage (124,244 sold in 2022). The 2023 Kia Sportage is a compact crossover SUV that is available in LX, S, EX, X-Line, GT-Line, and XRT trim levels. The 2023 Sportage is a good choice for those who are looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient compact crossover SUV. It is also a good choice for those who are looking for a vehicle with a long list of standard features.
- Kia Telluride (99,564 sold in 2022). Overall, the 2023 Kia Telluride is a good choice for those who are looking for a stylish and family-friendly SUV. The 2023 Telluride is powered by a 3.8L V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- Kia Forte (97,303 sold in 2022). The base LX trim comes standard with features like a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The LXS adds features like an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The GT-Line adds features like a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and a unique exterior design. The GT adds features like a turbocharged engine, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a sunroof.
- Kia Sorento (87,147 sold in 2022). The 2023 Kia Sorento is a midsize crossover SUV that is available in LX, S, EX, SX, X-Line, and SX Prestige trim levels. The 2023 Sorento is a good choice for those who are looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient midsize crossover SUV.
- Kia K5 (66,310 sold in 2022). The K5 is a good choice for those who are looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient midsize sedan. It is also a good choice for those who are looking for a car with a long list of standard safety features. Kia K5 is a midsize sedan that is available in LX, LXS, GT-Line, GT, and X-Line trim levels.
The Current Kia Model Lineup & Prices in the U.S
Kia is investing heavily in electric vehicles. The company plans to introduce 14 new EVs by 2027, including the EV9, a large SUV that will be available in the US in 2023. Kia is also expanding its lineup of SUVs. The company will introduce the Carnival minivan in the US in 2023, and it is also planning to introduce a new midsize SUV in 2024.
Kia Soul
Starting at $19,990
The 2023 Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV that is known for its funky design and quirky personality. It is available in LX, S, EX, Turbo, and X-Line trim levels. The base LX trim comes standard with features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The S adds features like an eight-speaker sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The EX adds features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker JBL sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The Turbo adds features like a turbocharged engine, paddle shifters, and a sport-tuned suspension. The X-Line adds features like a raised suspension, black exterior accents, and all-wheel drive.
The 2023 Soul is powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Turbo model is powered by a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Kia Seltos
Starting at $24,390
The Kia Seltos is a subcompact crossover SUV that was first introduced in 2019. It is available in LX, S, EX, and SX Turbo trim levels. The base LX trim comes standard with features like a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The S adds features like an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The EX adds features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof. The SX Turbo adds features like a turbocharged engine, paddle shifters, and a sport-tuned suspension.
The 2023 Seltos is powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The SX Turbo model is powered by a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Kia Sportage
Starting at $27,090
The base LX trim comes standard with features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The S adds features like an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The EX adds features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof. The X-Line adds features like a raised suspension, black exterior accents, and all-wheel drive. The GT-Line adds features like a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and a unique grille. The XRT adds features like a rugged exterior design, all-wheel drive, and roof rails.
The 2023 Sportage is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Sportage is also available with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 227 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2023 Sportage gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The hybrid model gets an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Kia Sorento
Starting at $30,090
The 2023 Sorento is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Sorento is also available with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 227 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
It is available in LX, S, EX, SX, X-Line, and SX Prestige trim levels. The base LX trim comes standard with features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The S adds features like an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The EX adds features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof. The SX adds features like a turbocharged engine, paddle shifters, and a sport-tuned suspension. The X-Line adds features like a raised suspension, black exterior accents, and all-wheel drive. The SX Prestige adds features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Kia Carnival MPV
Starting at $33,200
The 2023 Kia Carnival is a minivan that is available in LX, LX S, EX, EX+, SX, and SX Prestige trim levels. The base LX trim comes standard with features like a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The LX S adds features like an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The EX adds features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a panoramic sunroof. The EX+ adds features like a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a hands-free power liftgate, and a power-folding third-row seat. The SX adds features like a turbocharged engine, paddle shifters, and a sport-tuned suspension. The SX Prestige adds features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Kia Telluride
Starting at $35,990
The 2023 Telluride is powered by a 3.8L V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available on all trim levels. The 2023 Kia Telluride is a mid-size SUV that is available in LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige trim levels.
The base LX trim comes standard with features like a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The S adds features like an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The EX adds features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof. The SX adds features like a turbocharged engine, paddle shifters, and a sport-tuned suspension. The SX Prestige adds features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Kia Niro
Starting at $26,590
The Kia Niro is a hybrid crossover SUV that was first introduced in 2016. It is available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric (EV) models. The Niro is a small SUV, but it offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride. It is also fuel-efficient, with the hybrid model getting an EPA-estimated 49 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The plug-in hybrid model gets an EPA-estimated 40 miles in electric mode and 44 mpg in hybrid mode. The EV model gets an EPA-estimated 253 miles on a single charge.
The Niro is available in three trim levels: LX, EX, and EX Premium. The LX comes standard with features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The EX adds features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an eight-speaker JBL sound system, and heated front seats. The EX Premium adds features like a panoramic sunroof, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Kia Sportage Hybrid / Plug-in Hybrid
Starting at $27,490 / Plug-in Starting at $38,690
The 2023 Sportage Hybrid is powered by a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that produce 227 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid system gets an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid are both available in LX, EX, and X-Line trim levels.
Both the Sportage Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid come standard with features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. They are also available with a number of advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid
Starting at $33,840
The 2023 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid is a small SUV that is powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that produce 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The plug-in hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 40 miles in electric mode and 44 mpg in hybrid mode. The Niro Plug-in Hybrid is a good choice for those who are looking for a fuel-efficient SUV with a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. It is also a good choice for those who want the option to drive in electric mode for short distances.
Kia Sorento Hybrid /Â Plug-in Hybrid
Starting at $36,690 / Plug-in Starting at $49,990
The 2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid are both midsize SUVs that are powered by a hybrid powertrain. However, there are some key differences between the two models. The Sorento Hybrid is powered by a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that produce 227 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sorento Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is powered by the same powertrain as the hybrid, but it also has a battery pack that can be plugged in to an outlet. The plug-in hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 39 miles in electric mode and 36 mpg in hybrid mode.
Kia Niro EV
Starting at $39,550
The 2023 Kia Niro EV is a small SUV that is powered by a 64.8-kWh battery pack that produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a single-speed automatic transmission. The Niro EV gets an EPA-estimated 253 miles on a single charge. The Niro EV is available in two trim levels: EX and EX Premium. The EX comes standard with features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an eight-speaker JBL sound system, and heated front seats. The EX Premium adds features like a panoramic sunroof, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The Niro EV has been praised for its long range and fuel efficiency. It has also been awarded a number of environmental awards, including the EPA’s 2023 Fuel Economy Leader award.
Kia EV6
Starting at $42,600
The 2023 Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover SUV that is powered by a 77.4-kWh battery pack that produces 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque in the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model and 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque in the all-wheel-drive (AWD) model. It is mated to a single-speed automatic transmission. The EV6 gets an EPA-estimated 310 miles on a single charge in the RWD model and 274 miles in the AWD model.
The EV6 is available in three trim levels: Light, Wind, and GT-Line. The Light comes standard with features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an eight-speaker sound system. The Wind adds features like a panoramic sunroof, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The GT-Line adds features like a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and a unique exterior design.
Kia Rio
Starting at $16,750
The 2023 Kia Rio is a subcompact car that is available in LX, S, and GT-Line trim levels. The base LX trim comes standard with features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a four-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The S adds features like an eight-speaker sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The GT-Line adds features like a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and a unique exterior design. The Rio is powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder engine that produces 120 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Rio gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.
Kia Forte
Starting at $19,690
Overall, the Kia Forte is a good choice for those who are looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient compact car. However, it is important to consider the not as powerful engine and limited cargo space before making a decision. The Forte is powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Forte gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The Forte comes standard with features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. It is also available with a number of advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
Kia K5
Starting at $25,390
The 2023 Kia K5 is a midsize sedan that is available in LX, LXS, GT-Line, GT, and X-Line trim levels. The base LX trim comes standard with features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera. The LXS adds features like an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. The GT-Line adds features like a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and a unique exterior design. The GT adds features like a turbocharged engine, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a sunroof. The X-Line adds features like rugged exterior styling, all-wheel drive, and a raised suspension.
The K5 is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The K5 gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The K5 comes standard with features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. It is also available with a number of advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
Kia Stinger
Starting at $36,690
The Kia Stinger is a rear-wheel-drive (or available all-wheel-drive) sports sedan produced by South Korean automaker Kia Motors. Since its introduction, the Stinger has drawn attention for its bold design, performance-oriented nature, and its value proposition in the sports sedan segment. The Kia Stinger made its debut at the 2017 North American International Auto Show and went on sale later the same year as a 2018 model. The car was a departure from Kia’s more traditional lineup, emphasizing performance and driving dynamics. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 255 horsepower comes standard but opt for the GT and you get a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivering approximately 365 horsepower.
The Kia Stinger has received widespread praise from automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its combination of performance, design, and value. Many have considered it a disruptor in its segment, offering characteristics typically seen in more expensive European sports sedans at a more affordable price point.
Kia EV9
Starting at ~$56,000
The 2024 Kia EV9 is an all-electric SUV that is scheduled to go on sale in the United States in 2023. It is based on the Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which also underpins the Hyundai Ioniq 7 and Genesis GV60. he EV9 is expected to be available in two trim levels: EX and SX. The EX comes standard with features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an eight-speaker sound system. The SX adds features like a panoramic sunroof, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 12-speaker JBL sound system.
The EV9 is powered by a 77.4-kWh battery pack that produces 306 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a single-speed automatic transmission. The EV9 gets an EPA-estimated 310 miles on a single charge. The EV9 is a good choice for those who are looking for a spacious and luxurious electric SUV. It is also a good choice for those who are looking for an SUV with a long range.
Sources: Manufacturers, ANDC, JATO Dynamics.
