The battle for India’s utility vehicle (UV) market is heating up. Maruti Suzuki, the current UV leader, is being closely chased by Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M). Between April and July 2025, Maruti Suzuki sold 214,641 UVs, holding a 24% market share, while M&M sold 201,938 units, just behind with 23%. The difference between them is only 12,703 units, making the competition intense.
Maruti Suzuki’s UV sales fell 2% year-on-year (YoY), from 219,432 units in April-July 2024. Meanwhile, Mahindra recorded strong 22% YoY growth (April-July 2024: 165,871 units). Last fiscal, both companies achieved record UV sales: Maruti Suzuki sold 720,186 units, up 12%, while M&M sold 551,487 units, up 20%. The gap between the two leaders has significantly narrowed, with M&M closing in on Maruti’s 26% share from FY2025.
Looking at models, Maruti Suzuki’s top three UVs – Ertiga, Vitara Brezza, and Fronx – contributed 81% of its total UV sales in April-July. However, other models like Grand Vitara, XL6, and Jimny saw declines of 30%, 9%, and 46% respectively. The premium Nexa lineup also saw an 11% dip in sales. To counter M&M’s challenge, Maruti plans new launches, including its first EV, the e-Vitara, and the new Escudo SUV. A three-row Grand Vitara is also expected by the end of 2025.
For Mahindra, the Thar Roxx and Scorpio remain strong sellers. The Thar alone grew 87% YoY, while the XUV700 posted 7% growth. Electric SUVs BE 6 and XUV9e contributed 7% to M&M’s total UV sales. Out of its eight UV models, only XUV3X0 and XUV400 saw declines.
The overall UV market grew slightly, with 892,092 units sold in April-July 2025, up 3% YoY. Among 16 UV makers, only five – including Mahindra, Toyota, Kia, Skoda, and PCA Motors – increased sales. The upcoming GST reduction during Diwali could further boost passenger vehicle sales, but SUVs are expected to remain in high demand.
With both Maruti Suzuki and Mahindra pushing hard, FY2026 promises to be an exciting year for India’s UV market.
