Indian car market kicked off 2026 with a bang! In January, total passenger vehicle sales hit 4,52,589 units – up a solid 12.7% from 4,01,538 units in January 2025. Maruti Suzuki is still the volume king, but the real headline? Tata Motors stormed to the No.2 spot, leaving Hyundai and others behind.
SUVs are driving this boom – buyers want safety, space, and that high-seat feel more than ever.
1. Maruti Suzuki – Still the Volume King
Maruti kept the crown but growth was slow.
- Jan 2026: 1,74,529 units
- Jan 2025: 1,73,599 units
- Growth: Just 0.5% Big exports and huge dealer network helped them stay on top.
2. Tata Motors – The Growth Star (+46.1%)
Tata stole the show and grabbed No.2!
- Jan 2026: 70,222 units
- Jan 2025: 48,075 units
- Growth: Massive 46.1% Nexon, Punch, Harrier, and strong EV push made Tata the go-to for safety-loving buyers.
3. Mahindra – SUV Powerhouse Stays Strong
- Jan 2026: 63,510 units
Mahindra held firm in the top tier. Scorpio-N, Thar, XUV700, and Bolero keep demand high – classic rugged appeal wins in smaller cities.
4. Hyundai – Drops to No.4
- Jan 2026: 70,222 units
Hyundai had solid numbers with Creta and Venue, but Tata and Mahindra’s surge pushed them down.
5. Toyota – Steady with Hybrids & MPVs
- Jan 2026: 30,630 units
Toyota stayed in the Top 10 thanks to reliable Innova, Urban Cruiser, and hybrid tech.
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January 2026 Car Sales Rankings
| Rank | Brand | Jan 2026 Sales | Growth / Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maruti Suzuki | 1,74,529 | +0.5% – Volume King |
| 2 | Tata Motors | 70,222 | +46.1% – Growth Champion |
| 3 | Mahindra | 63,510 | SUV Dominator |
| 4 | Hyundai | 59,107 | Steady but slower |
| 5 | Toyota | 30,630 | Hybrid & MPV Specialist |
Maruti leads on numbers, but Tata’s momentum shows the shift – safety + SUVs rule now.
Sundar More is an automobile and technology writer with a background in Mechanical Engineering. He has a deep interest in automobiles, electric vehicles, and the latest innovations in automotive technology. By combining engineering knowledge with a passion for writing, Sundar delivers informative, easy-to-understand articles for CrickDuniya.in, helping readers stay updated on new launches, features, and trends shaping the future of mobility.
