India’s OEM level passenger vehicle exports recorded strong growth in January 2026 from 57,026 units in January 2025 to 77,666 units. This marks a solid growth of 36.19% year-on-year, largely driven by Maruti Suzuki’s aggressive export push. Maruti alone exported 50,716 units, a massive growth of 89.37% YoY, contributing almost two-thirds of the total exports.
Car exports January 2026 – Maruti dominates
Maruti exported 18 of its models last month. Strong overseas demand for models such as the Ford Figo, Jimny, Swift and the recently introduced E Vitara significantly increased its numbers. Hyundai retained the second position with 14,030 units, up 20.95% YoY, while Toyota remained steady at 3,250 units with marginal growth.
On the other hand, the pace of exports was uneven across OEMs. Tata Motors recorded a sharp growth of 251%, albeit on a smaller base, while Jeep also recorded strong percentage growth. Kia, Renault and Citroen also saw good growth.
However, Nissan (-35.98%), Honda (-84.98%), Mahindra (-57.56%) and Volkswagen (-63.76%) recorded notable declines, reflecting model cycle changes and changes in global demand. Overall, January 2026 underlines India’s strong position as a global export hub, with growth largely tilted towards Maruti Suzuki and compact vehicle exports.
Top 30 Car Exports January 2026
Maruti Suzuki continued its dominance in export volumes, occupying several positions in the top 10. The Frontex emerged as the most exported model with 10,938 units, up 37.91% year-on-year. The Jimny recorded the strongest growth, rising to 7,970 units from 1,958 units last year, registering a growth of 307%. The S-Presso came in second with 6,687 units, up 175%, while the Swift posted 5,589 units, marking a 40% increase. Dezire sales grew exceptionally to 3,839 units compared to only 22 units a year ago.
Hyundai also maintained a strong presence. Grand i10 exports grew nearly 70% year-on-year to 4,827 units, while Verna remained steady at 4,734 units with marginal growth. Hyundai i20 exports more than tripled to 645 units, while Creta exports more than doubled to 608 units. Exeter also saw a brisk pace with 343 units shipped compared to only 54 units last year.
The Toyota Hayrider maintained steady export numbers at 3,240 units, up 2% year-on-year. However, Maruti Baleno sales declined 34% to 3,229 units. The Celerio saw a huge jump from just 167 units last year to 2,986 units, while the Maruti E Vitara entered the export list with 2,940 units in its first month.
Among other notable performers, Kia Carens surged 196% to 814 units, while Maruti Alto surged 66% to 802 units. Sales of the Citroen C3 increased by 40% to 468 units. On the other hand, Nissan Magnite fell 40% to 2,359 units, Hyundai Aura fell 15%, and Mahindra XUV 3XO fell 50%.
Many models recorded a huge decline in exports. The VW Virtus declined by 68%, the Honda City declined by 58%, the Hyundai Alcazar declined by 36%, and the Honda Elevate saw the sharpest decline, falling by more than 92% compared to its high base last year. Overall, January 2026 strengthens India’s position as a major export hub for compact SUVs and small cars.
