Hyundai Elantra sales over seven times higher than Sonata in Pakistan

Pakistan’s auto industry recorded a significant uptick in October 2025, with total sales, including cars, LCVs, vans, and jeeps, reaching 17,333 units, up 32.2 percent compared to 13,108 units in the same month last year, according to the latest data from the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA). Month-on-month, sales were slightly higher by 0.9 percent compared to September’s 17,174 units.

The four-month cumulative sales for FY26 also point to a robust recovery, hitting 59,591 units, nearly 46.4 percent higher than the 40,693 units sold during the same period last year. Growth was largely driven by the 1,300cc and above category, where production and sales surged significantly. Toyota, with models like Corolla, Yaris, and Corolla Cross, alongside Honda’s Civic and City, continued to dominate this segment.

Hyundai Sonata vs Elantra

October 2025 highlighted the stark contrast in Hyundai’s model performance. The new N-Line Sonata, despite its sleek design, recorded the lowest sales in the market, with only 45 units sold. This mirrors its performance last year, where 43 units were sold in October 2024. The high price tag of Rs1.65 crore appears to be a major hurdle for potential buyers.

In comparison, the Hyundai Elantra sold 325 units in October 2025, a dramatic 622 percent increase over the Sonata. Elantra’s competitive pricing and broader appeal seem to have helped it capture far more buyers, highlighting a clear preference among consumers.

Suzuki retains its crown

Meanwhile, Suzuki continued to dominate Pakistan’s car market. The Suzuki Alto, in particular, remains the highest-selling car thanks to its affordability, reliability, and long-standing brand reputation. Prices start at Rs2.99 million for the Alto VXR Manual and reach Rs3.32 million for the VXL AGS variant.

Other segments also showed encouraging signs. The 1,000cc category, including Suzuki Cultus and Swift, held steady with 1,733 cumulative sales since July. Jeep and pickup production and sales surged as well, supported by models such as Toyota Fortuner, Honda BR-V, and Hyundai Tucson.

Two- and three-wheelers, a key driver of volume in Pakistan, saw a 31 percent year-on-year increase, with combined production reaching 600,102 units and sales nearly matching at 597,025 units. Leading manufacturers in this segment include Honda, United, and Road Prince.

However, the truck and bus sector showed signs of slowing, with cumulative sales dipping to 5,867 units compared to 6,939 units last year. Farm tractor production remained steady at 8,945 units, indicating stable demand in the agricultural machinery market.

The overall trend signals a strong recovery in Pakistan’s auto industry, with consumer preference leaning towards affordable, reliable, and well-established brands. While premium models like the Hyundai Sonata struggle to attract buyers, brands like Suzuki continue to capitalise on trust and cost-effectiveness to dominate sales.