Sales of SUVs in Chennai are higher than the all-India numbers.
What’s it about? The latest data from JATO Dynamics showed SUVs made up 47% of all passenger vehicle sales sold in Chennai during 2022-23, with over 35,000 units. The national average is just over 43%.
- The Hyundai Creta, manufactured in Tamil Nadu, is the most popular in Chennai with over 9% of total sales, followed by the Kia Seltos and Tata Nexon with 8.9% and 8.8%, respectively.
- Car markets feel that higher SUV sales and the shrinking of the entry-level hatchback are signs of high-end cars selling better. Also, the cost of living pressures has impacted value-conscious customers.
Who said what? JATO Dynamics President Ravi Bhatia said Chennai had seen a strong surge in SUV sales. It’s part of a broader trend in India as people prefer their larger size with comfort and convenience. Manish Raj Singhania of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA) said the entry-level market is currently under pressure.