Mahindra Overtakes Hyundai: A New Reign Begins in Auto Sales

Mahindra & Mahindra is anticipated to surpass Hyundai Motor India by the close of 2025, securing the second position in India's passenger vehicle market. This development signifies a significant shift, as Hyundai is projected to drop to fourth place, a first since public registration data became available in January 2019. M&M's ascent is largely credited to its successful introduction of new models in the rapidly expanding SUV segment, including recent launches like the Thar Roxx and XUV 3XO, alongside electric offerings.

Analysts attribute Mahindra's impressive performance to a focused strategy on design, competitive pricing, and premium features. This approach has ensured consistent sales, bolstered by facelifts of popular models such as the Bolero and Scorpio. In contrast, Hyundai has maintained a more conservative product launch schedule, with its Exter micro-SUV in July 2023 being its most recent new nameplate, and a continued heavy reliance on the Creta.

Despite the competitive pressure, Hyundai has announced plans to introduce 26 new models by 2029-30 and aims for a 15% market share by then, signaling a strategic shift towards profitability. However, M&M's proactive product development and strategic market focus have positioned it favorably to capture market share, marking a notable change in the automotive landscape.