3,135,803. That’s how many cars Kia sold in 2025, a record-breaking result for the brand after a two percent increase over the previous year.
For 2026, Kia has an even more ambitious goal: 3,350,000 units. As it aims to increase sales by more than 200,000 vehicles compared to last year, the company is launching several new products. Some have already been exposed, while some are about to be exposed.
As with every brand, crossovers and SUVs are preferred. However, Kia is not ignoring traditional passenger cars entirely. Plus, it wants to cater to a broader audience by offering a variety of powertrain options rather than putting all its eggs in the electric basket. There seems to be something for everyone.
Here’s everything we know about what Kia has planned for 2026 (and beyond).
Kia EV2: New entry-level EV
Photo by: Kia
The not-for-America EV2 is the new entry point into Kia’s massive electric vehicle lineup. It rides on a dedicated platform and features a boxy shape with strong styling, while the GT-Line trim adds a sportier flair. Although the exterior is unconventional, the cabin is straightforward, with dual screens and plenty of physical buttons that provide quick access to frequently used functions.
The smaller EV2 is only 159.8 inches (4,060 mm) long and comes in four- and five-seat configurations. Its e-GMP platform brings a 42.2 kilowatt-hour battery pack with a WLTP-rated range of up to 197 miles (317 kilometers). At additional cost, a larger 61-kWh battery increases the range to 278 miles (448 kilometers) on a single charge. Sadly, this model is not destined for the US.
Kia EV GT model: more power, subtle design changes
Photo by: Kia
Kia is moving away from combustion-powered performance vehicles by prioritizing hot EVs. The EV3, EV4, and EV5 are all getting GT versions with dual motors and all-wheel drive as standard, with no major changes to the design to indicate their upgraded status. The EV3 GT and EV4 GT produce 288 horsepower, while the EV5 GT increases to 301 horsepower.
The EV4 GT is the quickest of the three, taking just 5.6 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph. The EV3 GT is one-tenth of a second slower, while the larger EV5 GT completes the race in 6.2 seconds. There’s just one problem: Since Kia isn’t selling the standard EV4 and EV5 in the US, the spicy GT models aren’t coming here either. The silver lining is that the EV3 will go on sale later in the year alongside a GT version.
Kia K4 Sportswagon: The Surprise Wagon
Kia Niro: Major facelift
Kia Seltos: all new everything
Photo by: Kia
Kia started the year strong by introducing the second-generation Seltos as an all-new model. It looks nothing like its predecessor, as a design overhaul has given the subcompact crossover a mini-Telluride appearance. Inside and out, it’s evolved while remaining affordable with a starting price of $26,485 and standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, LED headlights, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Those seeking maximum efficiency may want to skip the gas-only versions and wait until the end of the year, when the Seltos will receive a hybrid powertrain with all-wheel drive. Kia is bringing the model to Europe for the first time as a more affordable alternative to the Sportage. An electrified version with a rear-mounted motor is also headed to the continent, giving European buyers even more choices
Kia Xceed: The aging crossover goes under the knife
Look ahead: Sportage, electric sedan, EV1
The next-generation Sportage was recently spotted testing in South Korea, but it’s unlikely to debut this year. Instead, rumor has it that the new compact crossover will break cover sometime in 2027. Knowing how Kia likes to shake things up, it’s likely to get an extensive makeover, and we’re not just talking about the exterior.
The new Plios infotainment system is expected to dramatically change the dashboard layout with a central touchscreen, while some physical controls below will still be retained. We should learn more about the revised Sportage later this year when its sister model, the Tucson, transitions to the next generation. Logic suggests that neither is likely to get an EV equivalent, as Kia and Hyundai maintain separate lineups for their dedicated electric models.
Photo by: Kia
Although SUVs dominate this list, the K4 Sportswagon is not the only passenger car that Kia is working on. The Vision Meta Gran Turismo is an attractive sports sedan with an electric powertrain. We won’t see a production version until 2026, but the company has confirmed it’s in development, with a fastback version also coming.
When the sleek EV finally arrives, it will serve as an indirect successor to the Stinger. what’s that for? Kia says the high-performance EV is aimed at the “gamer generation.” The company is staying tight-lipped about specifics, but is already promising a “more dynamic, engaging and exhilarating driving experience” without the Stinger’s twin-turbo V6 or any engine at all.
