Hyundai Motor Group, the parent company of Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, achieved a historic milestone in October 2025 by capturing a record 10.9% share of the U.S. light-vehicle market. This marks the first time the Korean automaker has surpassed the 10% threshold in a single month, cementing its status as one of the fastest-growing mainstream brands in North America.
The surge reflects a perfect alignment of product strategy, consumer trends, and operational resilience. Despite ongoing global supply constraints and a market increasingly polarized between luxury and budget segments, Hyundai-Kia has consistently gained ground through aggressive investment in SUVs, electrified powertrains, and distinctive design. Year-to-date through October, the group’s U.S. market share stands at approximately 10.2%, up nearly a full percentage point from 2024, placing it firmly ahead of competitors such as Honda, Subaru, and Mazda.
Key to this momentum has been the runaway success of Kia’s three-row SUV lineup—led by the Telluride and the recently refreshed Sorento—and Hyundai’s own Palisade, Tucson, and Santa Fe families. These models have resonated strongly with American families seeking spacious, tech-laden vehicles at price points significantly below domestic and European luxury alternatives.
Looking ahead, Hyundai Motor Group shows no signs of slowing down. Kia has confirmed that the heavily revised second-generation Telluride—widely regarded as the benchmark in the mainstream three-row SUV segment—will reach U.S. dealerships as early as January 2026. The updated flagship will feature bolder styling, enhanced interior refinement, and new powertrain options, including a more efficient hybrid variant expected to deliver over 35 mpg combined.
Following closely behind will be an all-new generation of the subcompact Kia Seltos, which has become a surprise volume leader in its category. The redesigned 2027 Seltos is anticipated to offer sharper handling, a more premium cabin, and expanded availability of all-wheel drive with hybrid assistance.
In total, Hyundai Motor Group plans to introduce at least four new or significantly refreshed hybrid models across its Hyundai and Kia brands in the first half of 2026. These launches come at a pivotal moment as U.S. buyers increasingly prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing size or capability—precisely the sweet spot both brands have mastered.
With inventory levels stabilizing and dealer lots replenished, analysts predict Hyundai-Kia could challenge Toyota for third place in overall U.S. sales volume as early as 2027. For now, the record October performance serves as clear evidence that the Korean giant’s North American ascent is far from over.