Korean Cars Taking North America by Storm?
Hyundai and Kia SUVs Enjoy High Popularity
Claiming Top Three Sales Spots
The Korean wave, or Hallyu, was strong in the domestic automotive industry in 2023. Korean car manufacturers recorded impressive performances worldwide and received high praise. The trend was influential in the United States, the home of the automobile industry.
One of the statistics sites, U.S. News & World Report, selected the best SUVs in 2024 and 2025. According to the article, Korean companies Hyundai and Kia are receiving substantial favors in the SUV market. Their two-row and three-row SUVs have taken all three top spots, showcasing K-SUVs’ prestige.
Hyundai/Kia SUVs on the Rise
Hybrid/Electric Cars Gaining Momentum
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid scored the highest and took first place in the two-row SUV category. The Tucson Hybrid received an 8.8 score for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, powerful powertrain, and ample cargo space. With this score, it also took first place in the hybrid SUV and crossover SUV categories.
In the three-row SUV category, the Kia EV9 took first place. The EV9 scored 8.9 points for its spacious interior, fast charging, and rich standard features. However, it was noted that a compromise is needed as it lacks ample acceleration for long-distance driving. The EV9 is currently being evaluated as a role model for electric SUVs in the United States.
Only a 0.1-Point Difference
Which Models Narrowly Missed the Top Spots?
The competition for two-row SUVs was fierce, with all rankings being decided by a difference of just 0.1 points. The model that took second place was the 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid. It won consumers’ hearts with its potent powertrain and excellent fuel efficiency. However, it was noted as a drawback that no options are available for the base model, and it received a score of 8.7 points.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 took third place. It was praised for its ample space in both rows and intuitive technology. However, it had to settle for 8.6 points due to a slightly disappointing cargo capacity and an overly simple design.
Domestic Models Were Strong, but North American Exclusive Models Dominated
An unfamiliar model from a Korean company stands out in the three-row SUV category. The 2024 Kia Telluride, which scored 8.8 points and took second place, is a front-wheel-drive midsize SUV and a strategic model for North America. The Telluride captured the North American market with its smooth ride and simple infotainment system. In addition to being the second-best three-row SUV, the Telluride also took first place in the midsize SUV category and tied for first place in the crossover SUV category.
The 2024 Hyundai Palisade took third place in the three-row SUV category. The Palisade was praised as a car with many features, an excellent interior, and ample space, with almost no downsides, scoring 8.6 points. The Palisade was also selected as a finalist for the best three-row SUV for its price in 2024.
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