The fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson crossover, despite the imminent debut of an entirely new model, is demonstrating phenomenal results in the US market. By the end of September 2026, sales of this vehicle surged by 32%, forcing experts to revise their forecasts regarding the outgoing models. The South Korean automaker continues to maintain leading positions, offering buyers time-tested technical solutions amidst changing conditions in the US automotive market.

Phenomenal Demand Ahead of the Generational Shift

In September of this year, Hyundai sold 23,164 Tucson crossovers in the United States, compared to 17,569 units in the same period last year. Notably, this involves a model that debuted back in the fall of 2020 and received no major updates for the 2026 model year. Total Tucson sales since the beginning of 2026 have reached 181,687 vehicles, a 10% increase over the previous year. This model still accounts for more than a quarter of all South Korean brand sales in the country, highlighting its enduring popularity.

Success Factors: Hybrids in Trend, EVs in Crisis

The main driver of sales growth was hybrid modifications of Hyundai vehicles, interest in which jumped by 39% in September, securing 28% of the brand's total sales volume. Against this backdrop, the pure electric vehicle segment faced a severe downturn: sales of Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 battery crossovers plunged by 65%, while sales of Ioniq 6 sedans practically halted (only 3 units compared to 814 a year earlier). Analysts attribute this dynamic to the cancellation of federal EV tax credits at the end of September 2025 and a shift in consumer preferences toward more practical hybrid powertrains.

Impressive Lineup Results and New Prospects

The success extended beyond the Tucson: Palisade large crossover sales grew by 52% (to 10,327 cars), Sonata sedan sales rose by 39% (to 5,156 units), and Santa Fe increased by 21% (to 12,227 vehicles). Overall, Hyundai sold 77,439 cars in the US in September 2026, improving last year's result by 9% and setting a new record for this month. This comes as the days of the current Tucson generation are already numbered, with the brand having recently unveiled a completely new Tucson.