THE Philippine automotive industry was on an upward trend in 2024, with total sales reaching 359,540 units by September. Data from the Philippine Automotive Dealers Association (PADA) also revealed that Toyota remains the undisputed market leader, holding a commanding position across both passenger and commercial vehicle segments. Joining Toyota in the top 10 are Mitsubishi, Ford, Nissan, Suzuki, Isuzu, Honda, Hyundai, MG and Kia—each brand contributing to a competitive and dynamic market landscape.Toyota has solidified its lead with a year-to-date (YTD) total of 159,088 units sold by September, capturing a 44.25-percent market share. Toyota's passenger car sales reached 47,547 units, driven by popular models like the Vios and Wigo, catering to a broad range of Filipino consumers. In the commercial vehicle segment, Toyota extended its dominance with 111,541 units sold, led by the Hilux, Hiace and Fortuner, confirming its top choice status for Filipinos seeking reliable and versatile vehicles.In second place, Mitsubishi recorded 67,019 units sold YTD, holding an 18.6-percent market share. Mitsubishi's strength lies in both passenger and commercial vehicle segments, with peak monthly sales in February and July. The Xpander and Mirage have fueled Mitsubishi's success in the passenger car segment, where it sold 20,781 units by September. In commercial vehicles, the L300, Triton and Montero Sport helped Mitsubishi achieve 46,238 units sold.Ford ranks third with 21,438 units sold by September. The brand's performance is largely anchored in the commercial vehicle segment, with models like the Ranger and Everest making up nearly all of its total sales at 21,199 units. These models attract consumers in construction, transportation and the adventure markets. Despite recent challenges and a 26.95-percent dip in September, Ford's reputation for rugged durability secured its place in the top three.Nissan is in fourth place with a YTD total of 20,322 units sold. Known for its balance of passenger and commercial vehicles, Nissan had a strong September, with models like the Navara pickup and Terra driving a 20.79-percent sales growth, helping Nissan rebound from previous monthly declines.Suzuki rounds out the top five with a YTD total of 14,990 units, focusing on compact, affordable passenger cars popular with Filipino consumers. Models like the Ertiga and S-Presso contributed to Suzuki's 7,139 passenger car sales by September. Though primarily a passenger car brand, Suzuki's Jimny also supported its commercial vehicle sales, securing a niche across both segments.Isuzu takes sixth place with a YTD total of 12,663 units sold by September. The brand's strength is in light and medium-duty trucks, including models like the mu-X, D-Max, and Travis, making it the top choice for businesses in logistics, agriculture and construction. Isuzu's reputation for durability keeps it competitive despite a smaller market share.Honda follows in seventh place with a YTD total of 11,512 units sold. Known for popular compact cars like the City and Brio, Honda has carved a dedicated customer base in the passenger car segment, where it sold 4,810 units. The CR-V and BR-V models appeal to families, helping Honda maintain a presence across vehicle categories.Hyundai achieved 8,690 units sold YTD, securing the eighth position in the Philippine market. Hyundai's consistent presence in both passenger and commercial segments has driven steady growth, with models like the Stargazer, Staria and Custin providing reliable options for Filipino consumers seeking value and versatility.MG (Morris Garages) continues to expand in the Philippines with a YTD total of 6,447 units sold, ranking ninth. Known for stylish and affordable passenger cars, MG's popular models, like the MG5 and ZS, resonate with younger, urban drivers. MG has seen steady growth, particularly in August and September, reflecting its rising popularity.Kia rounds out the top 10 with a YTD total of 4,381 units sold by September. With a mix of passenger and commercial vehicles, Kia remains competitive, especially with models like the Seltos, Carnival and Sonet. Kia's diverse lineup allows it to attract both individual and commercial buyers, making it a versatile player in the Philippine automotive market.
