Kia has closed out 2025 with a strong sales performance, setting a new global record despite falling slightly short of its own ambitious targets. The South Korean automaker delivered a total of 3.13 million vehicles worldwide last year, marking a two percent increase compared to the previous year and the highest annual sales figure in the company’s history. However, this result still missed Kia’s original 2025 goal of 3.22 million units.
Even so, the brand remains optimistic and is aiming higher for 2026. Kia is targeting global sales of 3.35 million vehicles, a figure that appears achievable thanks to an expanding lineup and several high-profile launches on the horizon. New-generation models such as the Kia Telluride and Seltos are expected to play a key role in sustaining growth, particularly in high-demand SUV segments.
SUVs were once again the backbone of Kia’s success in 2025. The Kia Sportage emerged as the brand’s best-selling vehicle with 569,688 units delivered globally. The Seltos followed in second place with 299,766 units, while the Sorento secured third position at 264,673 units. Together, these three SUVs underscored Kia’s strong positioning in one of the most competitive parts of the global automotive market.
Looking ahead to 2026, Kia plans to increase production and strengthen its presence both at home and abroad. Domestic sales in South Korea are projected to reach 565,000 units, up from 545,776 vehicles sold last year. International markets are expected to account for the bulk of growth, with overseas sales targeted at 2,775,000 units, a notable increase from the 2,584,238 units recorded in 2025.
Special Purpose Vehicles, including military and specialized utility models, are tracked separately but are also set for growth. Kia intends to sell 10,000 SPVs in 2026, nearly double the 5,789 units delivered the previous year, signaling rising demand in niche but strategically important segments.
Kia’s parent company Hyundai also reported solid but slightly underwhelming results in 2025, delivering 4.14 million vehicles against a target of 4.17 million units. For 2026, Hyundai has set a sales goal of 4.16 million vehicles, suggesting cautious optimism amid shifting global market conditions.
In the electric vehicle space, Kia is counting on future models to support long-term growth. The upcoming Ioniq 3 is expected to attract buyers seeking an affordable entry point into EV ownership. However, since the production version of the Concept Three-based model will arrive later this year, its full sales impact is not expected to materialize until 2027.
Kia has closed out 2025 with a strong sales performance, setting a new global record despite falling slightly short of its own ambitious targets. The South Korean automaker delivered a total of 3.13 million vehicles worldwide last year, marking a two percent increase compared to the previous year and the highest annual sales figure in the company’s history. However, this result still missed Kia’s original 2025 goal of 3.22 million units.
Even so, the brand remains optimistic and is aiming higher for 2026. Kia is targeting global sales of 3.35 million vehicles, a figure that appears achievable thanks to an expanding lineup and several high-profile launches on the horizon. New-generation models such as the Kia Telluride and Seltos are expected to play a key role in sustaining growth, particularly in high-demand SUV segments.
SUVs were once again the backbone of Kia’s success in 2025. The Kia Sportage emerged as the brand’s best-selling vehicle with 569,688 units delivered globally. The Seltos followed in second place with 299,766 units, while the Sorento secured third position at 264,673 units. Together, these three SUVs underscored Kia’s strong positioning in one of the most competitive parts of the global automotive market.
Looking ahead to 2026, Kia plans to increase production and strengthen its presence both at home and abroad. Domestic sales in South Korea are projected to reach 565,000 units, up from 545,776 vehicles sold last year. International markets are expected to account for the bulk of growth, with overseas sales targeted at 2,775,000 units, a notable increase from the 2,584,238 units recorded in 2025.
Special Purpose Vehicles, including military and specialized utility models, are tracked separately but are also set for growth. Kia intends to sell 10,000 SPVs in 2026, nearly double the 5,789 units delivered the previous year, signaling rising demand in niche but strategically important segments.
Kia’s parent company Hyundai also reported solid but slightly underwhelming results in 2025, delivering 4.14 million vehicles against a target of 4.17 million units. For 2026, Hyundai has set a sales goal of 4.16 million vehicles, suggesting cautious optimism amid shifting global market conditions.
In the electric vehicle space, Kia is counting on future models to support long-term growth. The upcoming Ioniq 3 is expected to attract buyers seeking an affordable entry point into EV ownership. However, since the production version of the Concept Three-based model will arrive later this year, its full sales impact is not expected to materialize until 2027.
