Kia UK has delivered its strongest July sales performance on record, driven by soaring demand for its expanding electric vehicle lineup and the successful launch of the all-electric PV5 commercial vehicle.
According to the latest registration figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Kia registered 9,870 vehicles across its passenger car and Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) ranges during July. The milestone reinforces the brand’s position as one of the UK’s leading automotive manufacturers.
Kia Maintains Strong Position in the UK Market
Across the combined passenger car and light commercial vehicle market, Kia ranked third in the UK during July and also holds third place year-to-date.
The brand performed even better in the passenger car segment, securing second place for both the month and the year so far. Kia registered 9,086 passenger cars in July, while cumulative registrations have climbed to 71,931 units in 2026.
The record-breaking month reflects growing customer demand for Kia’s latest models, particularly its expanding range of electric vehicles and the new PV5, the company’s first dedicated Platform Beyond Vehicle.
Kia PV5 Continues Strong Electric Van Momentum
Kia’s entry into the UK commercial vehicle market has exceeded expectations following the introduction of the all-electric PV5.
July marked the first month in which Kia registered more than 1,000 PBVs, including 784 PV5 Cargo models and 235 PV5 Passenger variants.
Demand has remained strong since launch. Year-to-date registrations have already reached:
– 3,239 PV5 Cargo
– 1,141 PV5 Passenger
Those figures have comfortably surpassed Kia UK’s original sales forecasts for the year.
The strong start has helped propel Kia to third place in the UK’s electric light commercial vehicle market, both for July and across the year to date. Excluding passenger versions, the PV5 Cargo has also become the UK’s best-selling electric van so far this year.
The success extends beyond Britain. Across Europe, the PV5 has emerged as the best-selling electric light commercial vehicle in the small van (C-segment), accounting for 37% of all electric van sales in the category. The model ranked first in 12 European markets, including the UK and Germany.
Available in Cargo, Passenger and Chassis configurations, the PV5 combines a dedicated EV platform, practical versatility, low operating costs and Kia’s seven-year/100,000-mile warranty, making it an increasingly attractive option for both business and private buyers.
Kia Becomes UK’s Best-Selling EV Brand in July
Electrification continues to be a major growth driver for Kia.
The automaker finished July as the UK’s best-selling electric vehicle brand, registering 3,731 battery-electric vehicles during the month.
A key contributor was the Kia EV3, which became the UK’s second most-registered electric vehicle in July with 1,691 registrations. The compact electric SUV continues to attract strong customer interest, highlighting the growing appeal of Kia’s EV lineup.
Year-to-date, Kia ranks second among all manufacturers in the UK EV market, trailing only a dedicated electric vehicle brand.
Kia now offers one of the country’s broadest all-electric model ranges, including the EV2, EV3, EV4, EV5, EV6, EV9, as well as the PV5 commercial vehicle. Several models also qualify for the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant, helping make EV ownership more affordable.
Sportage Remains a Best-Seller
While electric models continue to gain momentum, the Kia Sportage remains one of the brand’s biggest success stories.
The popular family SUV has recorded 29,033 registrations so far this year, making it the second best-selling vehicle in the UK across all powertrains. Registrations have increased by 5.6% compared with the same period last year, demonstrating the Sportage’s continued appeal in an increasingly competitive market.
Kia’s Growth Shows Strength Across Every Segment
Kia’s record July performance highlights the strength of its balanced product strategy. The company is growing rapidly in both passenger cars and commercial vehicles while expanding its presence in the electric vehicle market.
With strong demand for the EV3, continued popularity of the Sportage and the successful rollout of the PV5 electric van, Kia appears well positioned to maintain its momentum throughout the remainder of 2026 as EV adoption continues to accelerate across the UK.
