Indian automobile companies kicked off 2026 with impressive momentum, backed by sustained demand for SUVs. Leading manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Hyundai Motor India reported strong sales growth in January, with several brands setting new monthly records.
According to industry estimates, total passenger vehicle (PV) sales in January 2026 stood at around 4.50–4.55 lakh units, marking a 12.62% year-on-year growth compared to approximately 4.04 lakh units sold in January last year. While Maruti Suzuki recorded its highest-ever wholesale sales, Tata Motors and Hyundai also achieved their best January domestic sales to date.
Maruti Suzuki Leads the Market
Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest carmaker, reported wholesale PV sales of 1,74,529 units in January 2026, a marginal 0.54% increase year-on-year compared to 1,73,599 units in January 2025. The company said market sentiment remains positive, with demand holding firm.
Notably, six Maruti models featured among the top 10 best-selling cars in January, including Dzire, Ertiga, Swift, Brezza, Baleno, and Vitara, reflecting the brand’s continued dominance across segments.
Tata Nexon and Punch Set New Benchmarks
Tata Motors delivered a standout performance, selling 70,222 vehicles in January—up 46.1% year-on-year from 48,076 units sold in the same month last year. The Nexon and Punch SUVs emerged as the company’s top performers, both achieving their highest-ever monthly sales.
Adding to the milestone, the Tata Nexon crossed 10 lakh cumulative sales, while the Punch surpassed 7 lakh units in just 4 years and 3 months, making it the fastest car in India to reach this mark.
Mahindra’s SUV Strength Continues
Mahindra & Mahindra, India’s largest SUV-focused automaker, reported 63,510 wholesale units in January 2026—registering a 25.37% year-on-year growth over 50,659 units sold in January 2025. The Scorpio and Bolero remained the brand’s strongest contributors, underlining Mahindra’s dominance in the rugged SUV segment.
Hyundai Posts Best January Sales
Hyundai Motor India recorded domestic sales of 59,107 units in January 2026, reflecting a 9.5% increase compared to 54,003 units sold a year ago. The Creta SUV led sales with 17,921 units, while the recently launched Venue SUV achieved its highest-ever monthly sales at 12,413 units.
Strong Start Signals Optimism for 2026
With SUVs continuing to drive volumes and consumer sentiment remaining upbeat, the Indian auto industry has begun 2026 on a confident note. Industry experts believe that if this momentum sustains, the year could see new sales records across multiple segments.
