Auto sales accelerate 40% in March

April 13, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan’s auto sector staged a strong year-on-year recovery in March, with sales of cars, LCVs, vans, and jeeps rising 39.9% YoY to 15,531 units, compared to 11,098 units in the same month last year, according to data released by the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association.

However, the momentum lost some steam on a monthly basis, as sales declined 9.3% MoM from 17,121 units recorded in February 2026.

The growth was largely driven by the passenger car segment, which posted a 44.6% YoY increase to 11,755 units, although it fell 12.2% MoM. Meanwhile, sales of LCVs, vans, and jeeps rose 27.2% YoY to 3,776 units, showing slight resilience with a 1.2% MoM uptick.

On the production side, total output stood at 14,364 units in March, up 37.5% YoY, but down 8.0% MoM. Passenger car production increased 42.1% YoY to 10,843 units, while LCVs, vans, and jeeps production rose 25.1% YoY to 3,521 units.

Despite the strong yearly rebound in March, the broader trend remains under pressure. During 9MFY26, cumulative sales clocked in at 57,736 units, marking a sharp 42.7% decline compared to 100,764 units in the same period last year.

Passenger car sales during the nine-month period fell 43.8% YoY to 42,335 units, while LCVs, vans, and jeeps dropped 39.5% YoY to 15,401 units.

Similarly, cumulative production during 9MFY26 decreased 40.6% YoY to 60,774 units, reflecting continued weakness in demand amid prevailing economic challenges.

In the company-wise landscape, Toyota retained its market leadership, with sales rising to 3,145 units in March 2026 compared to 2,378 units in the same month last year. The increase was largely supported by sustained demand for Corolla, Yaris, and Corolla Cross, particularly in the higher engine capacity segment.

Similarly, Honda posted a notable recovery, with sales reaching 2,049 units, up from 1,195 units in March 2025. The rebound reflects improving demand for Civic and City, as the sedan segment regained traction amid relatively stable macroeconomic conditions.

On the other hand, Suzuki continued to dominate the small car segment, with its portfolio led by Alto, Cultus, WagonR, and Swift. The Alto remained the single largest contributor within the below 1000cc category, anchoring overall volumes, while other models maintained steady, though slightly moderated, sales levels.

Meanwhile, Hyundai maintained a stable presence in the market. Elantra contributed consistently within the sedan category, whereas Sonata continued to cater to a niche segment, resulting in relatively limited volumes.

In the emerging SUV and crossover space, Sazgar Engineering Works continued to gain traction through its HAVAL lineup, reflecting a visible shift in consumer preference towards SUVs and premium crossovers.

The jeeps, pickups, and SUVs segment exhibited mixed trends during March 2026, with total sales standing at 728 units.

Within this category, Toyota’s Fortuner and IMVs continued to dominate the premium SUV space, while Honda’s BR-V and HR-V maintained steady demand.

At the same time, Sazgar’s HAVAL lineup further strengthened its foothold, indicating growing consumer inclination towards crossover SUVs despite pricing pressures.

The commercial vehicle segment also reflected improving economic activity. Trucks and buses recorded total sales of 3,008 units, signaling a pickup in logistics and industrial movement.

Similarly, the agriculture-linked segment remained robust, with tractor sales reaching 13,223 units, highlighting strong rural demand and continued support from the farming sector. 

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