Detroit-based Ford Motor Co. successfully defended its position as the third-largest automaker in the United States during the third quarter, narrowly staying ahead of South Korean rival Hyundai. The result defied recent market predictions that Hyundai might surpass Ford in quarterly volume for the first time.
Ford reported a year-over-year decline of 6.6% in light-duty vehicle sales, moving 507,395 units. This figure does not include the company’s heavy-duty truck division, which falls under a different classification. In comparison, Hyundai, along with its subsidiaries Kia and Genesis, recorded a 5.4% increase, delivering 506,200 vehicles over the same period.
Both manufacturers outperformed expectations set by Cox Automotive earlier in the month. The previous forecast had suggested that Hyundai’s momentum would allow it to overtake Ford, a milestone viewed as a significant shift in the competitive landscape.
Hyundai has been steadily gaining ground in the American market throughout 2026. Conversely, Ford has faced headwinds stemming from production challenges at its critical F-Series pickup truck plants. These disruptions were caused by two supplier fires last year, which hampered output and sales for one of the brand’s most popular lines.
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