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In a significant shift in Japan’s automotive landscape, Suzuki Motor has overtaken Nissan as the country’s third-largest automaker in 2025, according to sales figures released by both companies on Thursday. This marks the first time in more than a decade that Suzuki has outsold Nissan during a full calendar year.
Suzuki reported global sales of approximately 3.3 million vehicles, up 1.4% from the previous year. Nissan, on the other hand, saw a decline of 4.4%, selling 3.2 million vehicles worldwide.
Despite these changes, both Suzuki and Nissan remain behind industry giants Toyota and Honda. Toyota continues to dominate with record sales of 10.5 million vehicles under its Toyota and Lexus brands, while Honda sold 3.5 million cars, a drop of 7.5% compared to last year.
The figures highlight shifting consumer preferences and growing competitiveness in Japan’s domestic market, with Suzuki’s focus on compact and fuel-efficient vehicles paying off. Analysts say Nissan’s recent struggles may be linked to a combination of market challenges and supply chain issues, which have affected global carmakers in recent years.
Suzuki has long carved out a distinct place in the global auto industry by focusing on compact, affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles, particularly in Asian and emerging markets. The company enjoys a strong presence in countries such as India and Pakistan, where reliability and low running costs matter more than luxury.
For Suzuki, this milestone is more than just numbers, it reflects steady growth, strategic positioning in emerging markets, and a renewed focus on innovation. While the gap with Nissan is narrow, the achievement underscores how nimble strategies and customer-centric models can reshape market standings.
