The Kia Seltos has overtaken the Hyundai Kona in 2026 U.S. sales, reversing last year’s standings as both subcompact crossovers surpass 50,000 units through September. The Seltos has posted significant year-over-year growth, while Kona sales have declined.
Kia Seltos Takes the Lead
Through September, the Kia Seltos has sold 58,207 units in the U.S., up 45% from 40,065 during the same period in 2025. The Hyundai Kona has sold 52,948 units, down 8% from 57,278 a year earlier.
That represents a major change from last year. At the same point in 2025, the Kona led the Seltos by 17,213 units. In 2026, the Kia has reversed that deficit and now leads the Hyundai by 5,259 units.
| Model | 2026 YTD | 2025 YTD | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Seltos | 58,207 | 40,065 | +45% |
| Hyundai Kona | 52,948 | 57,278 | -8% |
Why the Seltos Is Gaining Ground
The Seltos’ sales growth has coincided with the arrival of a second-generation model for the 2027 model year. The new Seltos is larger and features styling that mirrors Kia’s larger SUVs.
It will also introduce a hybrid powertrain to the Seltos lineup for the first time. Hyundai does not currently offer a hybrid version of the Kona.
Seltos vs. Kona Pricing and Power
Despite being the newer model, the 2027 Kia Seltos has a lower starting price than the 2027 Hyundai Kona. The Seltos starts at $24,990, while the Kona starts at $25,500.
For buyers seeking more power, however, the pricing advantage shifts to Hyundai. The turbocharged Kona starts at $28,425, compared with $32,790 for the turbocharged Seltos.
Both crossovers come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower. All-wheel drive is available on both models.
Seltos Hybrid Coming Later in 2026
The Seltos Hybrid is expected to arrive before the end of the year, with an estimated fuel economy of around 40 mpg. It will use a 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive will be available. Kia has not yet announced pricing or additional details for the hybrid model.
The Seltos is already outselling the Kona before the hybrid version arrives, adding to the significance of its 2026 sales lead.
Which Should You Buy?
The Seltos and Kona both offer airy, modern interiors with crisp digital displays and a decent amount of space. Neither model has a clear advantage in this area.
For buyers choosing a model with the standard engine, the newer Seltos is the recommended choice. However, the turbocharged Kona offers more value than the equivalent Kia.
Hyundai could need a Kona hybrid to keep pace with the Seltos in this segment, and such a model appears to be in the pipeline.
