According to data analysed by JB Securities Ltd., SUVs and crossovers accounted for 52% of total registrations in 2025 — a sharp rise from 16% in 2019 and 12% in 2015. In contrast, conventional passenger cars declined to 42% of registrations, compared to 74% a decade earlier.
Total passenger vehicle registrations, including cars, SUVs and vans, reached 68,323 units in 2025. While this figure remains below the 82,489 units recorded during the 2015 tax-driven boom, it is roughly 50% higher than 2019 levels, considered a representative pre-pandemic benchmark.
Brand preferences also shifted. Japanese vehicles retained market leadership with a 62% share in 2025, though lower than the 81% recorded in 2019. Indian-origin vehicles fell sharply to 8%, down from 51% during the 2015 surge. Chinese brands increased their presence to 8%, marking a notable entry into the market.
Electrification gathered pace during the year. Hybrid registrations rose strongly, while electric vehicle (EV) volumes continued to expand, supported by growing model availability and consumer interest in alternative powertrains.
Analysts attribute the shift to evolving consumer preferences, improved financing penetration and a more stable macroeconomic environment.
