Tata Nexon
7.55 Lakh*
Ishita Sharma 2024-12-25
In 2024, from January to November, Tata Motors' Punch became the best-selling passenger vehicle (PV) in India. This means it sold more than any other car during this period. What's interesting is that sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs), like the Punch, have become more popular, pushing smaller cars like hatchbacks out of the top three most-sold positions. So, SUVs and MPVs are now leading in sales, taking over the places that hatchbacks used to hold as the top-selling cars in India.
TATA Punch Sales Unit -
Between January and November 2024, Tata Motors sold 1,86,958 units of the Punch across all fuel types (including petrol, diesel, and electric) in India. This is a significant increase compared to 1,50,182 units sold in the same period in 2023. The 2023 sales figure only included the Punch's Internal Combustion Engine Vehicle (ICEV) variant (which runs on petrol or diesel), while in 2024, the car is available in more options, likely including electric or hybrid variants, leading to higher overall sales.
Tata Motors spokesperson stated, “Yes, we confirm. Year to date, in this FY, Punch has been the highest selling car in the country. Launched in October 2021, the Tata Punch introduced India to the sub-compact SUV category. The Tata Punch with its strong attributes has successfully democratised the SUV attributes.”
Industry analysts believe that the Tata Punch has done exceptionally well, outperforming its competitors not just in the compact SUV category but also in the hatchback segment. This shows that the Punch appeals to a wide range of Indian consumers, offering a mix of features that attract people looking for both small SUVs and compact cars.
Best in Its Segment -
“The Tata Punch, as an entry-level micro-SUV, has successfully captured first-time car buyers and small families by offering SUV styling and high ground clearance at an accessible price point, with its 5-star GNCAP safety rating being a significant draw for safety-conscious buyers. Each model's success stems from effectively addressing specific market needs while maintaining strong brand value and resale prospects,” said Ravi Bhatia, president and director of JATO Dynamics India.
Competitive Brand in SUV Segment
Industry watchers claim this accomplishment highlights the growing dominance of compact and sub-compact SUVs and MPVs in the country and cements Tata Motors’ position as a top contender in the domestic PV market.
During January-November 2024, the Hyundai Creta SUV was the second highest-selling vehicle in India, with 1,74,311 units sold. Close behind, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV came in third place with 1,74,035 units sold.
Notably, both the Creta and the Ertiga showed impressive growth in sales compared to previous years:
According to JATO Dynamics India, a global automotive data analysis company, this shift in rankings highlights changing consumer preferences.
Additionally, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) pointed out that the Creta alone contributed more than 32% of the total sales in the midsize SUV category in India, underscoring its strong presence and dominance in that segment.
According to Bhatia, the Ertiga, Creta, and Punch have become leaders in their respective segments by catering to the unique needs of different buyer groups.
Tata Punch hits 4 lakh sales marks faster than any other SUV
“The Ertiga attracts large families and fleet operators with its practical seven-seater layout, proven reliability, and economical running costs, especially with its CNG option. The Hyundai Creta has established itself as the go-to choice for urban upper-middle-class families and young professionals who value its premium features like connected car technology and panoramic sunroof, along with multiple powertrain options including both petrol and diesel engines,” Bhatia said.
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