Car sales surge, SUVs drive growth

NEW DELHI: India’s passenger vehicle market opened the new fiscal on a strong note, with April sales estimated at around 4.5 lakh units, marking a roughly 27% increase over 3.5 lakh units in the same month last year. The growth was led by strong performances across major automakers and sustained demand for utility vehicles.

Maruti Suzuki reported total sales of almost 2.4 lakh units in April, up from 1.8 lakh units a year ago. Domestic passenger vehicle sales rose 35.3% year-on-year to 1.9 lakh units. The Dzire led the company’s portfolio in the month. Maruti saw a significant jump in Alto and S-Presso numbers, which rose from 6,332 units to 16,066 units.

Commenting on demand conditions, Maruti Suzuki senior executive officer (marketing & sales) Partho Banerjee said impact of GST 2.0, I-T relief and reduced repo rates are still driving industry growth.

Tata Motors reported domestic passenger vehicle volumes of 59,000 units, up 30.5% year-on-year, driven by models, such as the Nexon and Punch. The company also retained its lead in the electric vehicle segment, with over 8,500 retail units.

Mahindra & Mahindra posted 56,331 units, registering a 7.7% increase, supported by SUV portfolio. Hyundai Motor India recorded domestic wholesales of 51,902 units, up 17%, with the Venue achieving its highest monthly volumes.

Kia India reported its best-ever April performance at 27,286 units, up 16% year-on-year. Both Seltos and Sonet crossed 10,000 units individually. Renault India reported 5,413 units, more than doubling volumes from a year earlier. SUVs remained primary growth driver, with most manufacturers relying on utility vehicles to expand volumes and improve margins.

The growth comes even as companies face rising input costs linked to global supply chain pressures, including higher prices for semiconductors and EV components. Companies have largely absorbed these increases, amid competitive market conditions.
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