India’s automobile industry sustained its upward momentum in October 2025, driven primarily by the booming demand for compact SUVs and practical family-oriented models. The country’s evolving car-buying patterns show a clear tilt toward vehicles that combine style, technology, safety, and versatility—a space now largely owned by SUVs and crossovers.
At the forefront of this transformation stands Tata Motors’ Nexon, which once again claimed the top spot as India’s best-selling car for the second consecutive month, signaling a remarkable shift in consumer sentiment towards homegrown brands and safety-centric models.
The Rise of Compact SUVs in India
The Indian passenger vehicle market has undergone a massive shift over the last five years. What was once a hatchback-dominated landscape now finds itself ruled by compact and subcompact SUVs. These vehicles—offering higher ground clearance, elevated driving position, and road presence—have become the new benchmark of value for Indian families.
In 2025, this trend reached new heights. Compact SUVs accounted for nearly half of total passenger vehicle sales, showing that buyers now prefer cars that feel premium yet practical. Automakers such as Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Mahindra are capitalizing on this wave by offering multiple SUV models across price brackets, fuel types, and sizes.
Tata Nexon Leads the Pack Once Again
Tata Motors’ Nexon continues to be a standout performer. In October 2025, it registered 22,083 units, making it the highest-selling car in India for the second month running.
Several factors contribute to the Nexon’s success story:
- Versatile Powertrain Options: The Nexon remains one of the few models available in petrol, diesel, CNG, and electric (EV) versions—offering something for every type of buyer.
- Safety Leadership: It was one of the first Indian cars to achieve a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, a milestone that continues to resonate with safety-conscious buyers.
- Modern Design and Technology: With its refreshed exterior design and feature-loaded interiors—such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, and connected car tech—the Nexon perfectly fits the urban Indian lifestyle.
- Strong Brand Trust: Tata Motors’ growing reputation for safety, reliability, and service improvements has played a major role in boosting customer confidence.
The Nexon’s balanced combination of features, affordability, and brand value makes it a go-to choice for first-time SUV buyers as well as those upgrading from hatchbacks or sedans.
Maruti Suzuki: Still the Volume Leader
While Tata Motors may have claimed the top-selling car title, Maruti Suzuki continues to dominate the overall passenger vehicle market by volume. In October 2025, the brand secured six out of the top ten spots on the monthly sales chart—an achievement that reinforces its unmatched reach, reliability, and mass appeal.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire: Second Place with 20,791 Units
The Dzire, Maruti’s compact sedan, secured the second spot with 20,791 units. Despite India’s gradual shift toward SUVs, the Dzire continues to thrive thanks to its:
- Proven fuel efficiency,
- Strong fleet and personal buyer demand, and
- Reputed low maintenance costs.
The car remains a preferred choice among taxi operators and small business owners, as well as individual buyers seeking a dependable city commuter with comfort and boot space.
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga: India’s MPV King
The Ertiga retained its strong third-place finish, selling 20,087 units in October 2025. Its formula for success lies in being a practical, seven-seater MPV that offers affordability without compromising comfort.
Available in petrol, CNG, and automatic variants, the Ertiga appeals to both families and commercial operators, offering generous space and impressive mileage. Its consistent sales performance proves that India’s demand for MPVs remains steady, especially among larger families and ride-sharing fleets.
Maruti Suzuki WagonR: The Ever-Reliable Hatchback
In fourth place came the Maruti WagonR with 18,970 units. Known for its tall-boy design, spacious interiors, and unbeatable practicality, the WagonR continues to dominate the hatchback space despite fierce competition from newer models.
It remains one of the most trusted nameplates in India’s automotive history—a car that has successfully adapted to changing times with CNG variants and modern features.
Hyundai Creta: The SUV Benchmark Continues Strong
In fifth position, the Hyundai Creta registered 18,381 units, underlining its enduring appeal in the mid-size SUV category. Often credited with popularizing the SUV craze in India, the Creta offers:
- A premium cabin feel,
- Strong engine options (including turbo-petrol and diesel), and
- A reputation for smooth performance and reliability.
Hyundai continues to refresh the model lineup with new features and tech additions to keep it competitive against rivals like the Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder.
Mahindra Scorpio: Rugged Power with Urban Appeal
Mahindra’s Scorpio, combining the success of the Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic, recorded 17,880 units, securing the sixth spot. Its resurgence demonstrates how Mahindra has mastered the art of blending off-road strength with urban sophistication.
The Scorpio-N, in particular, has become a sensation thanks to its bold design, premium interiors, and powerful diesel engine options. Together, both Scorpio models cater to different segments—urban SUV buyers and traditional rural markets—ensuring strong overall sales.
Mahindra’s consistent demand also highlights Indian consumers’ growing preference for powerful, masculine SUVs that offer a sense of adventure and capability.
The Fronx and Baleno Continue Maruti’s Winning Streak
Maruti Suzuki’s Fronx (17,003 units) and Baleno (16,873 units) took the seventh and eighth spots, respectively. Both models are targeted at young, tech-savvy, and style-conscious buyers seeking modern design and high fuel efficiency.
- Fronx, introduced as a crossover based on the Baleno platform, has been one of Maruti’s fastest-selling launches, appealing to those who want SUV styling without the bulk.
- Baleno, on the other hand, remains a dominant force in the premium hatchback segment thanks to its smooth performance, comfort, and strong resale value.
These two models underline Maruti’s strategy of diversifying within familiar platforms to reach wider audiences.
Tata Punch: The Micro-SUV That Stole Indian Hearts
At number nine, the Tata Punch registered 16,810 units, cementing its position as India’s favorite micro-SUV. Compact yet muscular, the Punch offers SUV styling in a compact package—ideal for Indian cities with narrow roads and congested traffic.
Its success stems from several factors:
- Affordable pricing,
- Impressive ground clearance,
- 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, and
- Tata’s strong aftersales network.
The Punch resonates strongly with first-time car buyers who desire an SUV experience at a hatchback price point.
Maruti Suzuki Swift: The Timeless Bestseller
Rounding off the top ten is the Maruti Suzuki Swift, which sold 15,542 units in October 2025. Despite being one of the oldest nameplates on the list, the Swift’s charm remains intact due to its youthful design, agile performance, and high fuel efficiency.
It continues to attract urban buyers looking for a reliable hatchback that’s both fun to drive and affordable to maintain.
Top 10 Selling Cars in October 2025
| Rank | Model | Units Sold |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tata Nexon | 22,083 |
| 2 | Maruti Suzuki Dzire | 20,791 |
| 3 | Maruti Suzuki Ertiga | 20,087 |
| 4 | Maruti Suzuki WagonR | 18,970 |
| 5 | Hyundai Creta | 18,381 |
| 6 | Mahindra Scorpio | 17,880 |
| 7 | Maruti Suzuki Fronx | 17,003 |
| 8 | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | 16,873 |
| 9 | Tata Punch | 16,810 |
| 10 | Maruti Suzuki Swift | 15,542 |
SUVs Cement Their Dominance
A quick glance at this list reveals that six out of the top ten bestsellers are SUVs or SUV-styled vehicles. This underscores how Indian consumers are embracing SUVs as the default family car choice.
Even models like the Fronx and Punch—technically smaller than traditional SUVs—leverage SUV-like proportions and ground clearance to attract buyers.
Analysts point to several reasons for this trend:
- Road Conditions: SUVs handle rough roads and potholes better.
- Perceived Safety: Higher stance and stronger body structures make them feel safer.
- Aspirational Appeal: SUVs offer a premium look that appeals to the evolving middle class.
- Feature Availability: Manufacturers pack SUVs with more tech, making them feel more “value for money.”
What This Means for India’s Auto Industry
October 2025’s sales figures reflect not only buyer sentiment but also the strategic direction of Indian automakers. With upcoming emission norms, electrification goals, and rising competition, companies are adapting by:
- Expanding CNG and EV portfolios,
- Introducing hybrid technology, and
- Offering AI-powered connected features.
Tata Motors and Mahindra’s success stories show that Indian automakers can compete head-to-head with global giants when they focus on innovation, design, and safety. Meanwhile, Maruti Suzuki remains an undisputed volume leader thanks to its widespread dealer network and affordable offerings.
The Road Ahead
As 2025 draws to a close, the automotive market is set to witness more action. Major launches are expected in the EV, hybrid, and compact SUV segments, with models from Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia on the horizon.
The festive season demand, new product introductions, and improved financing options are likely to keep the momentum going in the coming months.
Industry experts predict that the Indian passenger vehicle market could cross 4.5 million annual sales in FY2025-26, driven largely by SUVs, MPVs, and emerging EV models.
