Overview of the Situation
The sales of light vehicles in Mexico slowed by 0.6% in July, marking the fourth consecutive monthly decline so far in 2025. Although July showed better performance compared to June, it demonstrates the stagnation in the automotive industry due to economic and tariff uncertainty.
Sales Data
According to INEGI data, companies in the automotive sector sold 124,480 light vehicles in July of the current year, which is a 0.6% decrease compared to the previous year when 125,260 units were sold. This represents a difference of only 780 vehicles.
Industry Performance
Despite the slowdown, the automotive industry continues to push hard for competitiveness. The sale of 124,480 vehicles is the second-highest in the sector’s history for a July and also the second most representative result so far in 2025, as reported by the Mexican Association of Automobile Dealers (AMDA).
Compared to the previous month, there was an increase in new light vehicle sales, with 8,418 units sold, representing a 7.3% rise from June 2025.
Market Leaders
Nissan remains the leader in new car sales in Mexico, surpassing 23,600 units. The Japanese company’s growth of 13.3% in July resulted in an additional 2,778 units compared to the previous year. This is nearly double what BMW sold.
Impact on Major Players
The uncertainty surrounding tariffs has affected General Motors’ business in the United States, reflecting in Mexico with a 6.8% decrease in sales in July compared to the same month in 2024, dropping from 17,076 to 15,919 vehicles.
Ford also reduced its sales in the Mexican market by 6.3%. Toyota and Volkswagen also reported reduced sales, while Stellantis surprisingly increased by 4.5% in July.
Growing Corean Brands
Korean brands continue to gain ground, with KIA and Hyundai increasing their sales by 5% and 3.7%, respectively. Mazda, the Japanese brand, also experienced a 17% rise during July.
Fluctuating Chinese Brands
Chinese brands have experienced ups and downs, with only Changan reporting growth. The rest, including GWM, MG, and Motornation, have reduced their sales. JAC remained stable, while Chirey and Jetour continue to not report any sales.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue affecting Mexico’s new car sales? The primary concern is economic and tariff uncertainty, which has led to a slowdown in the automotive industry for four consecutive months.
- Which brands are leading the market in Mexico? Nissan remains the leader, followed by KIA and Hyundai, which are gaining ground. Japanese brand Mazda also experienced a significant 17% increase in July.
- How have major players like General Motors and Ford been impacted? Both companies reported sales declines in the Mexican market, with General Motors affected by tariff uncertainty and Ford reducing its sales by 6.3%.
- What is the performance of Chinese brands in Mexico? While Changan reported growth, other Chinese brands like GWM, MG, and Motornation have seen reduced sales. Chirey and Jetour continue not to report any sales.
