Mumbai, May 2, 2025 – Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has solidified its position as India’s second-largest passenger vehicle (PV) manufacturer, overtaking rivals Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) and Tata Motors in April 2025 sales, according to industry reports. The automaker’s robust SUV lineup drove this milestone, even as the Indian auto market displayed uneven results at the start of the new financial year.
A Milestone for Mahindra
Mahindra reported domestic sales of 52,330 SUV units in April 2025, reflecting a 28% year-on-year (YoY) growth, and total vehicle sales of 84,170 units, up 19% from the same period last year. Overall, the company’s sales reached 179,791 units, a 7% YoY increase, with domestic PV sales at 138,704 units. This performance allowed Mahindra to edge out Tata Motors, which sold 45,199 units, and Hyundai, with 44,374 units, securing the number two spot behind market leader Maruti Suzuki.
“Building on last year’s strong momentum, we began the year on a high note in April, achieving SUV sales of 52,330 units and total vehicle sales of 84,170 units,” said Veejay Nakra, President of M&M’s Automotive Division. “These numbers underscore the strength of our portfolio and customer offerings.”
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SUV Demand Fuels Mahindra’s Rise
Mahindra’s ascent is largely attributed to sustained demand for its SUV models, including the Scorpio, Thar, and XUV series. The company’s focus on rugged, aspirational SUVs has resonated with Indian consumers, shifting its brand image from rural utility to urban sophistication. Industry analysts note that Mahindra’s strategic emphasis on SUVs, coupled with recent leadership reshuffles—such as R. Velusamy’s appointment as President of the Automotive Business—has bolstered its market agility.
In contrast, Hyundai faced an 11.6% YoY decline in domestic sales, dropping to 44,374 units from 50,201 units in April 2024. Tata Motors also reported a sales dip, though it secured third place. Hyundai’s Tarun Garg, Whole-time Director and COO, cited macroeconomic headwinds but emphasized the company’s export focus, with a 21.5% YoY growth in export volumes.
Mixed Fortunes in the Auto Sector
The Indian auto market in April 2025 showed varied performance. Maruti Suzuki maintained its dominance with over 1.5 lakh units sold, despite a slight YoY decline. Other players like Kia India (up 18%), Toyota Kirloskar (up 33%), and JSW MG Motor (up 23%) reported strong growth, driven by demand for SUVs and crossovers. However, the industry faces challenges, including moderating growth rates—domestic car sales rose just 2% in FY2025, down from 8% in FY2024—reflecting weaker demand for small cars and sedans.
Mahindra’s electric vehicle (EV) ambitions also loom large. While currently offering only the eVerito sedan, the company plans to launch mass-market EVs like the eKUV100 and XUV300, alongside models like the XEV 4e and BE 07 by 2026. This could further strengthen its position, especially as competitors like Tata Motors and Hyundai also ramp up EV offerings.
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Industry Outlook
India’s auto industry is poised for growth, with NITI Aayog projecting the auto component sector to reach USD 145 billion by 2030. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently predicted that India could surpass the US and China to become the global auto leader within five years, having already overtaken Japan to rank third globally. Mahindra’s current trajectory positions it well to capitalize on this momentum.
As the battle for market share intensifies, Mahindra’s SUV-driven strategy and upcoming EV launches signal a bold push to challenge Maruti Suzuki’s dominance. For now, its April 2025 performance marks a significant milestone, reinforcing its status as a formidable player in India’s dynamic auto landscape.