Auto sales boom in March, carmakers hit record highs

New Delhi, April 1 (IANS) India’s automobile sector ended March 2026 on a strong note, with major carmakers reporting record sales driven by steady demand, new launches, and expanding customer reach.
Kia India emerged as one of the top performers, posting its highest-ever March sales since entering the Indian market.
The company sold 29,112 units during the month, marking a 14.5 per cent year-on-year growth compared to 25,525 units in March 2025.
The automaker also recorded its best-ever quarterly performance, with sales of 84,316 units in the January–March period, up 11.6 per cent from 75,576 units a year ago.
The strong performance was largely driven by sustained demand for models like the Kia Seltos, Kia Sonet, and Kia Carens.
The newly updated Seltos, in particular, continued to see high traction, consistently clocking over 10,000 units in monthly sales, supported by its safety ratings and premium features.
Hyundai Motor India also joined the list of record performers, clocking its highest-ever domestic quarterly sales.
The company reported total sales of 2,08,275 units in the fourth quarter of FY26, reflecting an 8.7 per cent year-on-year growth.
Domestic sales stood at 1,66,578 units, up 8.5 per cent, while exports rose 9.4 per cent to 41,697 units.
For March alone, Hyundai sold 69,004 units, with domestic sales rising 6.3 per cent to 55,064 units, although export numbers remained relatively subdued.
Meanwhile, Skoda Auto India also reported its best-ever quarterly sales, continuing its growth momentum from last year.
The company sold 20,028 cars in the first quarter of 2026, a 17 per cent increase over 17,138 units sold in the same period last year.
The growth was led by strong demand for models such as the Skoda Kylaq, which recently crossed the 50,000 sales milestone, along with the Skoda Kushaq, Skoda Slavia, and Skoda Kodiaq.
Adding to the positive momentum, JSW MG Motor India reported a 19 per cent year-on-year increase in wholesales for March.
The company dispatched 6,528 units to dealers during the month, supported by steady demand across both its internal combustion engine and new energy vehicle portfolios.
Adding to the positive momentum, JSW MG Motor India reported a 19 per cent year-on-year increase in wholesales for March.
The company dispatched 6,528 units to dealers during the month, supported by steady demand across both its internal combustion engine and new energy vehicle portfolios.
–IANS
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