Hyundai Sets Record January 2026 Sales in the U.S.

Hyundai Motor America reports record January 2026 U.S. sales of 55,624 units, driven by hybrid demand growth and strong SUV performance. Read the details.

Hyundai Motor America opened 2026 with a record-setting January in the U.S., reporting total sales of 55,624 vehicles, a 2% increase compared with January 2025. The result marked the best January sales performance in the brand’s history in the American market.

The biggest driver behind the milestone was surging demand for hybrids. Hyundai said its hybrid sales climbed by more than 60% year over year, highlighting how quickly buyers are shifting toward electrified options that balance efficiency with familiar driving habits. The strong hybrid momentum also strengthens Hyundai’s position in a segment where competition continues to intensify.

SUVs remained the backbone of the brand’s performance, accounting for 77% of total January sales. Several key models posted standout gains, led by the all-new Palisade, which jumped 29% to 8,604 units. The Santa Fe also increased 9% to 9,011 vehicles, while the Kona delivered a strong rise of 22% with 5,321 units sold.

The report also reflected mixed results in Hyundai’s EV lineup. The IONIQ 5 slipped 6%, while the IONIQ 6 saw a sharp decline of 61%. At the same time, Hyundai introduced a new figure into the sales mix: the IONIQ 9, which recorded 580 units sold in January, its first reported sales in the U.S. market. Combined with growing recognition and awards, the early performance may signal an emerging appetite for large three-row electric SUVs.

Hyundai also reinforced its momentum through industry recognition. The Palisade was named the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, while the all-electric IONIQ 9 earned the title of World’s Best Large SUV at the 2026 Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Awards.

According to Hyundai Motor North America President and CEO Randy Parker, the company’s dealer network and teams were able to maintain strong demand despite challenging weather conditions across the country. He emphasized that hybrids became the standout story of the month, positioning Hyundai with a strong launchpad for the rest of 2026.

With hybrid demand accelerating and key SUV models delivering steady gains, Hyundai enters the new year with a solid foundation. If these trends hold and newer additions like the IONIQ 9 continue to build traction, 2026 could further strengthen the brand’s foothold in the U.S. market, particularly in the fast-growing electrified SUV space.