SUVs Continue Leading Local And Global Auto Sales

Over half of all new car deliveries in Europe in 2203 were SUVs, marking a significant sales milestone. Motor1 states that it was to be expected when initial data indicated that SUVs would dominate the market overall. However, a calculation from Automotive News Europe reveals that in fact, the 50 percent mark was exceeded for 2023.

In particular, SUVs and crossovers accounted for 51% of new car sales, with sedans, trucks, wagons, and hatchbacks making up the remaining percentage. The segment has seen a 19% increase in sales year over year, driven primarily by the Tesla Model Y, which was named the world's best-selling car for 2023. To put things in perspective, the region saw a staggering 85% increase in sales of the Model Y alone.


With 4.1 million sold, small and compact people movers are the most common, according to Automotive News Europe. Premium SUVs, on the other hand, saw the biggest year-over-year growth, increasing 31% to reach 843,939 sales, according to the data. 

Moving on to the local market, Malaysia sold 719,160 passenger cars in total in 2023, out of a total of 799,731, which included 440,205 sedans, hatchbacks, and other body types. With 213,128 sold last year, the SUV phenomenon accounted for nearly 30% of the market share.


Notably, Proton is no longer the leader in SUV sales; instead, the title goes to its cross-town rival, which sold 56,868 Ativa and Aruz units as opposed to Proton's 46,445 X50, X70, and X90 models.
SUVs are becoming more and more popular locally and globally because of their increased space, versatility, and elevated driving position. Families and young professionals alike find SUVs to be appealing due to their sense of safety and prestige. Most mid-size and compact SUVs have more cargo volume and flexibility than most sedans on the market.