In 2024, the global automotive market experienced a slight contraction, with sales reaching around 90 million vehicles, a decrease compared to previous years. This decline is attributed to factors such as high interest rates, economic uncertainties, and lower liquidity in the markets.

Despite this context, Toyota maintained its leadership by once again surpassing the 10 million-unit sales mark, reaching 10,695,924 vehicles, representing a 4.7% decrease compared to the previous year. The Volkswagen Group ranked second with 8,693,123 units sold, a drop of 3.8% compared to 2023.

Below is a list of the 20 best-selling car brands in 2024, along with their sales figures and percentage variation from the previous year:
 

Regarding the best-selling models in 2024, the Tesla Model Y led the market with 785,591 units sold, followed by the Toyota Corolla with 741,982 units and the Toyota RAV4 with 673,050 units.

For 2025, projections indicate a moderate recovery in vehicle sales. For example, in Colombia, a 15% increase in vehicle registrations is expected, reaching approximately 231,000 units. On a global scale, the automotive industry is expected to adapt to new trends such as electrification and sustainability, which could drive sales in certain market segments.

Factors Determining the Position of the Best-Selling Car Brands

To determine the ranking of the world’s best-selling car brands, multiple factors influencing commercial performance and consumer preference are considered. Below are the key criteria used:

1. Sales Volume

• Units sold: The primary factor measuring how many vehicles a brand sold in a given year.
• Annual growth or decline: Compared to previous years to evaluate the brand's performance.

2. Market Share

• Global market share: Analyzes the percentage of a brand’s sales compared to total global vehicle sales.
• Presence in key markets: Some brands dominate specific regions, such as Toyota in Asia and North America or Volkswagen in Europe.

3. Profitability and Finances

• Revenue and profits: Even if a brand sells many units, its ranking also depends on the profitability of each sale.
• Profit margins: Some luxury brands sell fewer vehicles but maintain higher margins.

4. Production and Logistics

• Production capacity: Brands with a larger network of factories can manufacture more vehicles and meet market demand.
• Supply chain and spare part availability: The ease of obtaining replacement parts and maintaining vehicles impacts brand reputation.

5. Innovation and Technology

• Leadership in electrification: Brands like Tesla and BYD have grown due to their focus on electric vehicles.
• Safety and driver assistance systems: Innovations in safety and autonomous driving technology enhance brand perception.
• Fuel efficiency: The demand for hybrid and fuel-efficient vehicles has increased the popularity of certain brands.

6. After-Sales Service and Distribution Network

• Spare parts and maintenance availability: Brands with accessible and affordable spare parts retain more customers.
• Customer satisfaction: Brands with strong reputations for customer service tend to maintain their market position.
• Extended warranties and services: A solid warranty policy increases brand trust.

7. Market Strategy and Advertising

• Brand positioning: Brands with strong global recognition have an advantage over emerging competitors.
• Investment in advertising and marketing: Successful campaigns can generate higher sales volumes.

8. Regulations and Sustainability

• Compliance with environmental regulations: Many brands are investing in electrification and clean technologies to comply with stricter regulations.
• Sustainability and carbon footprint: Companies that reduce emissions or use recyclable materials can attract more customers.

Conclusion

While sales volume is the main factor in ranking, other elements such as profitability, innovation, spare part availability, and customer satisfaction also influence a brand’s position in the global automotive market. The increasing adoption of electric vehicles and adaptation to new trends suggest an optimistic outlook for 2025, with expectations of growth in various global markets.