The Indian sub-four-meter SUV segment concluded 2025 with a significant 36.6 percent year-on-year growth in December. Total volumes for the month reached 1,21,591 units, a substantial increase from the 89,008 units recorded in December 2024. Despite the strong annual trajectory, month-on-month performance remained largely stationary, showing a marginal 0.23 percent increase over November 2025. This data suggests a market that is reaching a point of maturity while maintaining its position as a primary volume driver for the domestic passenger vehicle industry.
Market Leadership and Top Performers
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx emerged as the segment leader in December 2025, recording 20,706 units. This represents a 92.6 percent increase over its December 2024 performance and a 37.5 percent rise compared to the previous month. The Fronx’s performance indicates a growing consumer shift toward crossover-style designs within the compact SUV space.
Tata Motors secured the second position with the Nexon and Nexon EV, which combined for 19,375 units. While this marked a 43.1 percent year-on-year improvement, the model saw a 13.6 percent decline in month-on-month sales. Maruti Suzuki’s Brezza followed in third place with 17,704 units, maintaining a steady annual growth of 2 percent while rebounding with a 26.9 percent increase over November figures.
Mid-Table Consistency and Emerging Models
The Tata Punch range, including its electric variant, delivered 15,980 units, reflecting a modest 6 percent annual gain but a near 15 percent drop from the previous month. Hyundai’s Venue maintained a consistent pace with 10,322 units, showing minimal fluctuation in both yearly and monthly comparisons.
- Mahindra XUV3XO: Recorded 9,422 units, achieving a 34.6 percent year-on-year increase despite an 11 percent monthly dip.
- Kia Sonet: Posted the highest year-on-year percentage gain at 182 percent (9,418 units), though it faced a 22 percent monthly contraction.
- Toyota Taisor: Demonstrated strong momentum with 4,457 units, growing 70 percent annually and 40 percent monthly.
- Skoda Kylaq: Recorded 3,668 units as it continues to establish its presence in the competitive segment.
Segment Challenges and Niche Performance
While the overall segment expanded, some models faced headwinds. The Nissan Magnite saw a 10 percent year-on-year decline, finishing the month with 1,902 units. The Maruti Suzuki Jimny continued to struggle in the mass-market space, with sales dropping 31 percent annually to 757 units. Conversely, the Kia Syros showed signs of growth, more than doubling its monthly volume to 1,116 units.
Comprehensive Sales Data: December 2025
- Maruti Fronx: 20,706 units
- Tata Nexon / EV: 19,375 units
- Maruti Brezza: 17,704 units
- Tata Punch / EV: 15,980 units
- Hyundai Venue: 10,322 units
- Mahindra XUV3XO: 9,422 units
- Kia Sonet: 9,418 units
- Hyundai Exter: 5,612 units
- Toyota Taisor: 4,457 units
- Skoda Kylaq: 3,668 units
- Nissan Magnite: 1,902 units
- Renault Kiger: 1,152 units
- Kia Syros: 1,116 units
- Maruti Jimny: 757 units
The year-end data underscores a highly competitive landscape where traditional SUV silhouettes are increasingly challenged by crossover alternatives. As the segment matures, the entry of new players and the refresh cycles of established models are expected to further intensify the competition for market share in 2026.
