Hyundai’s Hybrid Sales Surge 90% While EVs Rise Just 10%

Hyundai has released its U.S. sales figures for May 2026, and the results show the vast difference in growth rates between various powertrains. While Hyundai’s overall May sales were up 3% year-over-year, EVs increased by 10% and hybrids by a substantial 90%. In fact, this was the best-ever month for Hyundai hybrid vehicles, with four hybrid models achieving record May sales. EVs have rebounded after a decline in sales following the scrapping of the federal tax credit last year, and the three-row Ioniq 9’s growth has been particularly impressive. Here’s a closer look at the numbers.

A Strong May For Hyundai

Hyundai sold a total of 87,468 vehicles in May, an increase of 3%. Here’s a look at the brand’s model-specific sales, ranked from best- to slowest-selling.

The Tucson compact crossover was once again the sales leader for Hyundai and the only model to sell over 20,000 units. The biggest gains came for the Ioniq 9, Sonata, Ioniq 5, Palisade, and Elantra. On the opposite end of the scale, the Ioniq 6, Santa Cruz, Venue, and Kona were among the biggest losers.

Although Hyundai doesn’t separate gas and hybrid sales, it confirmed best-ever May sales for the following models:

• Tucson Hybrid (+10%)
• Santa Fe Hybrid (+30%)
• Elantra Hybrid (+29%)
• Sonata Hybrid (+250%)

There’s been a greater focus on efficient hybrids in 2026 in the wake of high gas prices, and Hyundai is clearly capitalizing with its comprehensive lineup of hybrids and plug-in hybrids.

“Hyundai achieved growth across nearly every part of our lineup in May, from sedans to SUVs, including both hybrid and electric models,” said Randy Parker, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “The market remains resilient, with solid underlying demand even as customers continue to navigate affordability pressures. Our hybrid portfolio is seeing strong traction, while EV demand continues to improve, leading to a new May sales record for Ioniq 5.”

Related: Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or EV? How to Decide Before You Buy

What It Means

By establishing a solid lineup of hybrid sedans and crossovers long before 2026’s drastic gas price hikes, Hyundai has been able to offer buyers exactly what they’re looking for. Models like the Elantra Hybrid are exceptionally efficient and well-priced, allowing consumers to get into a new vehicle while keeping running costs low. And, other than the Ioniq 6, Hyundai’s EVs are seeing a resurgence as we approach the middle of the year. Related brand Kia also saw massive growth rates for hybrid models in May. It’s part of a broader industry trend, as Honda also achieved record hybrid sales last month. 

The only notable hybrid gap in Hyundai’s lineup is an electrified subcompact SUV. If it can introduce a Kona Hybrid, we have little doubt that Hyundai would be able to increase sales of that model, too.

Related: Kia Breaks Multiple U.S. Sales Records As Telluride Soars

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