Mexico’s Light-Vehicle Sales Fall 0.3%, Break Growth Streak

Mexico’s light-vehicle market closed November with a 0.3% decline, totaling 148,359 units, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). The  drop—505 fewer units than in November 2024—ended the 11-month upward trend recorded since 2021. The decline occurred despite the arrival of two additional Chinese brands, Geely and Jetour-Soueast, as well as the Buen Fin sales period.

The Mexican Association of Automotive Dealers (AMDA) reported that November’s figures fell below the industry’s forecast of 150,399 units. “The light-vehicle market in November was below what distributors estimated,” said AMDA President Guillermo Rosales. He added that the shortfall represented a 1.4% deviation from expectations.

AMDA noted that Buen Fin promotions had limited impact. According to Rosales, “Buen Fin promotions have a marginal effect because the market has been stimulated for months with discounts from the brands,” underscoring persistent stagnation in retail demand.

General Motors reported a 3.4% decline in November, equivalent to 613 fewer units, while Volkswagen fell 3.6% and Toyota 4.3% and BMW 13.9%. Mercedes-Benz and MG also saw decreases. Meanwhile, Ford grew 8.3% and Stellantis posted a 15.4% increase.

Among brands with higher cumulative volumes from January to November, Mitsubishi, Renault, BMW Group, Mazda and Nissan reported annual increases of 13.8%, 11%, 9%, 7.7% and 6.7%, respectively. Conversely, MG Motor, Suzuki, General Motors, Honda and Stellantis recorded declines of 14.7%, 10.2%, 4.9%, 4.5% and 3.7% over the same period.

Nissan held a 17.9% market share in November but grew only 0.6% for the month. MG Motor posted a 44.3% year-over-year decline.

INEGI’s November report formally added sales figures from Geely and reincorporated Jetour-Soueast after its temporary withdrawal earlier in 2025. Geely reported a 245% annual increase with 3,454 vehicles, while Jetour-Soueast grew 140% to 452 units.

The rise reflects broader expansion among Chinese automakers. Changan posted 221.4% growth in November. This trend is reshaping commercial dynamics and intensifying regulatory discussions. “The growing presence of these firms is modifying the commercial structure of the sector,” AMDA said in its analysis.

AMDA and the Mexican Automotive Industry Association (AMIA) have called for greater transparency from Chinese manufacturers operating in the country. The request comes as the federal government evaluates potential tariff measures tied to the ongoing USMCA review process.