The automotive retail sales in India is back in the green, and for October 2024, the convergence of Navratri and Diwali has helped register robust growth across segments.

According to the latest data released by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA), a total of 2.8 million vehicles were registered last month, up 32.14 percent YoY, compared to 2.14 million vehicles sold last year.

This included 2 million two-wheelers (+36.34 percent YoY); 122,846 three-wheelers (+11.45 percent YoY); 483,159 passenger vehicles (+32.38 percent YoY); 64,433 tractors (+3.08 percent YoY) and 97,411 commercial vehicles (+6.37 percent YoY).

C S Vigneshwar, President, FADA stated that festivities traditionally account for 30–35 percent of total annual auto sales. The industry was keenly observing how October would unfold.

He said, “With dealers entering this crucial period fully committed and carrying all-time high inventory levels, the month did not disappoint!”

FADA shared that the rural market once again played a leading role in driving growth, particularly in the two-wheeler and passenger vehicle segments. Additionally, the Government of India's announcement of an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Rabi crops further boosted market sentiments.

The two-wheeler sales were driven by festive schemes, discounts along with new model launches that drove consumer interest. The dealers were able to support the demand on the back of better stock availability and suppliers from OEMs.

In the passenger vehicle segment too, aggressive offers, attractive schemes and new model introductions further stimulated demand.

“Enhanced vehicle availability and strong market interest, especially for SUVs and new products, also contributed to the exceptional sales. However, despite strong sales, PV OEMs continue to heavily stock dealers, resulting in inventory levels decreasing by only five days, with overall inventory still at a high of 75–80 days. This may thus lead the season of substantial discounts to continue until the end of the calendar year,” cautioned Vigneshwar.

The commercial vehicle segment growth was driven by various factors such as supportive agricultural markets and bulk purchases, particularly for container movements.

FADA states that however dealers faced challenges such as slow demand, sluggish construction activities, financial issues among customers and increased vehicle prices leading to higher EMIs.

“Overall, while there were areas of growth, the CV market faced headwinds that tempered its overall performance,” he shared.

Great Indian wedding

While the automotive industry has been seeing a mixed results in terms of retail demand, the expectation for the rest of the calendar year remains positive. An estimated 4.8 million weddings are scheduled across the country in November and December 2024. This is expected to bring an ‘unprecedented surge’ in demand for wedding-related goods and services.

For the automotive industry this could further amplify demand for two-wheelers and passenger vehicles. In the CV segment, while supportive agricultural markets and continued bulk purchases may contribute positively, dealers remain vigilant due to factors like sluggish construction activities, financial constraints among customers and an anticipated decrease in demand post-festivities.

But on the other hand, for the passenger vehicle segment, there are apprehensions about potential slowdowns caused by customers postponing purchases in anticipation of better year-end discounts. FADA also urges, PV OEMs to further rationalise supply.

The auto retail body states that while the industry is optimistic about near-term growth driven by the wedding season and favourable market conditions, dealers are mindful of potential challenges that could affect sales momentum as the year concludes.

‘The mixed sentiments reflected in the survey highlight the need for strategic planning and cautious optimism as the auto sector navigates the remaining months of the year,’ the note concluded.

Representational image courtesy: TomFlick/Pexels

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Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has released a teaser of its first hybrid vehicle launch in the country the Sorento SUV, which serves as the manufacturer's global flagship SUV.

Originally introduced in 2002, the Sorento nameplate has recorded global sales of 4.8 million units across four product generations in 132 countries. The vehicle ranked among the brand's top three best-selling models globally in 2024 and 2025, receiving industry safety classifications including the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a 5-Star NHTSA rating.

Teaser images issued by the company show an upright vehicle profile featuring a distinct shoulder line and a two-tier front lighting design with an illuminated upper graphic across the bonnet area. The India-spec configuration incorporates Kia's hybrid powertrain technology.

The company has opened advance reservations for the model through its dealership network and official website, with full specifications and launch timelines to be announced prior to the official commercial release.

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MG Select, the luxury division of JSW MG Motor India has introduced the Couture Edition of the MG M9 at INR 8.49 million, while the Cyberster Couture Edition is priced at INR 8.74 million.

The vehicles were created through a design partnership with fashion designer Gaurav Gupta. The collaboration began at the opening of Gupta's menswear flagship store in New Delhi, followed by an official vehicle integration during his 'Light Song' couture showcase in Mumbai on 17 July 2026.

Both models incorporate Gupta's Serpent Infinity design motif across interior and exterior surfaces, using hand embroidery, tonal layering and surface detailing techniques derived from garment construction.

Milind Shah, Head – MG Select, JSW MG Motor India, said, “The Cyberster and M9 have quickly become the most sought-after luxury EVs in their segment. By introducing a couture layer, we are building on that popularity with an offering that is both rare and collectible. It strengthens MG SELECT’s business proposition by uniting proven demand with exclusivity, ensuring our luxury channel continues to establish itself as a curator of distinct experiences for discerning customers.”

Gaurav Gupta said, “I’ve always believed that great design transcends categories. This collaboration with MG demonstrates how the principles of couture, craftsmanship, precision and emotional storytelling can transform the way we experience luxury mobility. Together, we’ve created something that is as expressive as it is functional.”

Production of the Couture Edition specification is limited to 50 units per vehicle model. Sales will be handled exclusively through MG SELECT Experience Centres across 14 cities, with orders opening on the official brand website ahead of customer deliveries scheduled to begin on 10 August 2026.

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Porsche India has launched an Assured Buy-Back Programme in partnership with a financial services provider, establishing guaranteed future valuation parameters for its vehicle range at the point of sale.

As per the terms, buyers can secure a guaranteed buy-back valuation of up to 70 percent after a 36-month tenure.

The scheme is available to private owners purchasing eligible Porsche models, including the Cayenne SUV alongside the Macan Electric and Taycan electric vehicle lines. The financial structure bridges the difference between the pre-agreed guaranteed value and the market resale value realised at the conclusion of the coverage term, subject to program conditions.

Ashutosh Dixit, Head of Porsche India, said, “The introduction of the Assured Buy-Back Program provides our customers with greater peace of mind while offering the flexibility to continue their journey with the Porsche brand. As we continue to enhance the ownership experience, this initiative reflects our commitment to delivering solutions that support our customers during their ownership journey.”

The agreement duration spans 36 months from the initial vehicle invoice date. At the end of the term, vehicle owners can exercise the buy-back option or transition into subsequent models within the brand's portfolio.

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French automaker Renault India, a wholly owned subsidiary of Renault Group, has reported its wholesales for July 2026.

The company sold 3,293 units last month, up 27.9 percent YoY, as compared to 2,575 units for the same period last year.

With this, Renault India has now registered double-digit YoY growth for the 11^th consecutive month. The company attributed the growth to the demand witnessed across its product portfolio and broadly aligned with the overall industry.

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