Auto Sales March 2025: A Month of Mixed Results
March 2025 saw a mixed bag for India's auto industry, with some manufacturers celebrating record sales while others faced headwinds. The final financial year numbers are in, revealing a complex picture of growth and challenges across passenger vehicles (PVs), two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles (CVs).
Winners and Losers
Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) enjoyed a stellar March, with overall auto sales surging 23% year-on-year (YoY) to 83,894 units, exceeding expectations. Their SUV sales alone jumped 18%, fueled by strong demand and the launch of their Electric Origin SUVs. Skoda Auto India also celebrated record sales, hitting 7,422 units—a significant achievement driven by the highly successful launch of their Kylaq sub-4m SUV. Kia India also reported impressive 19.3% YoY growth in domestic sales, reaching 25,525 units. Bajaj Auto also saw a massive increase in sales, up 93% compared to March 2024. However, not all manufacturers shared this success. Ola Electric experienced a 56% drop in EV sales, while Hyundai and Tata Motors saw declines in passenger vehicle sales.
Market Trends
The overall market performance in March 2025 was muted, with analysts attributing this to factors like discounts on unsold inventories and shifts in consumer preference. While rural demand remained robust, supporting sales of two-wheelers and tractors, the PV segment showed a more complex picture. The success of M&M's SUVs and Skoda's Kylaq highlights the enduring appeal of this segment, while other manufacturers struggled with increased competition. The commercial vehicle (CV) segment continued to face challenges, with sluggish demand impacting sales for several key players.
The Skoda Kylaq: A Game Changer?
Skoda's Kylaq compact SUV is undeniably a significant launch, aiming to capture a large share of India's rapidly growing sub-4m SUV market. Its competitive pricing, high localization, impressive safety features (five-star Bharat NCAP rating), and innovative features are designed to appeal to first-time buyers. The initial success, with over 15,000 bookings, suggests the Kylaq could be a game-changer for Skoda in India.
Looking Ahead
While March 2025 presented a mixed picture, the overall health of the Indian auto market remains a subject of debate. The success of certain brands and models indicates continued robust demand in specific segments, but challenges remain, especially in the CV sector. The coming months will be crucial in determining the long-term trajectory of the industry.
