Record January Sales: 55,624 Units Sold with 60% Hybrid Surge
Hyundai Motor America reported January 2026 U.S. sales of 55,624 units, up 2% year-on-year, its best January ever, led by a 60% surge in hybrid demand and SUVs accounting for 77% of sales. Palisade sales rose 29% and Santa Fe HEV deliveries jumped 43%, underscoring demand for electrified SUVs.
1. Record January Sales Propel Hyundai to New U.S. Highs
Hyundai Motor America reported U.S. retail sales of 55,624 units in January 2026, marking a 2% year-over-year increase and its strongest January on record. SUVs accounted for 77% of total volume, with the all-new Palisade posting a 29% sales surge to 8,604 units and the Santa Fe HEV up 43% to 9,011 units. Electrified models drove momentum: total hybrid sales climbed 60%, while the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 combined for 2,706 deliveries. Hyundai’s strong start sets a solid foundation for its spring product launches and upcoming EV expansions.
2. Brand Credibility Bolstered by Eight 2026 Editors’ Choice Awards
Hyundai earned eight 2026 Editors’ Choice Awards from Car and Driver, spanning EVs, SUVs, hybrids and performance models—underscoring its diverse lineup. Highlights include recognition for the all-new Palisade and Palisade Hybrid, which follow the latter’s back-to-back Editors’ Choice wins and a spot on Car and Driver’s 10Best Trucks & SUVs list. The IONIQ 9 made its debut on the honor roll alongside two other Hyundai EVs, reflecting the brand’s commitment to performance, value and real-world usability. These accolades reinforce Hyundai’s competitive positioning in key segments for informed shoppers.
3. Hyundai Motor Declines Russian Factory Buyback Option
Hyundai Motor Co. announced it will not exercise its contractual option to repurchase its former Saint Petersburg assembly plant in Russia. The decision follows the company’s exit from the market in 2022 and preserves cash flow and balance-sheet flexibility amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in Eastern Europe. Hyundai continues to supply parts and vehicles to global markets from its facilities in Korea, the U.S. and other regions, focusing capital investment on growth areas such as electrification, advanced mobility and new manufacturing capacity in North America.