The Turkish automotive sector continues to display strong momentum in 2025, with both passenger car and light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales recording significant growth in the first seven months of the year. Data released by the Automotive Distributors and Mobility Association (ODMD) for July 2025 offers a comprehensive snapshot of market trends, consumer preferences, and the growing influence of electric and hybrid models in the Turkish vehicle landscape.
Solid Growth in Car and LCV Sales
Between January and July 2025, a total of 715,695 vehicles were sold in Türkiye, marking a 6.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Passenger car sales rose by 6.68% year-over-year, reaching 572,198 units, while LCV sales climbed by 5.77% to 143,497 units.
The month of July alone saw an even sharper rise in demand, with total vehicle sales up 14.55% compared to July 2024. In total, 107,718 vehicles were sold in July 2025, including 84,195 passenger cars (up 14.71%) and 23,523 LCVs (up 13.96%).
This consistent upward trajectory highlights strong consumer confidence, favorable credit conditions, and a continued shift in vehicle preferences across the Turkish automotive market.
Dominance of Tax-Friendly Segments: A, B, and C Lead the Way
A significant portion of the Turkish auto market remains dominated by vehicles with lower tax brackets. A, B, and C segment vehicles made up 81.5% of total passenger car sales.
C-Segment vehicles were the most popular, accounting for 55.6% of sales with 318,343 units sold.
B-Segment models followed, capturing a 25.4% share with 145,595 units sold.
This trend suggests that Turkish consumers are increasingly seeking vehicles that balance affordability with practical features—particularly in urban areas where compact and mid-size vehicles offer better maneuverability and fuel efficiency.
SUVs Claim the Crown in Body Type Preferences
The SUV revolution continues to reshape the Turkish car market. As of July 2025, SUVs emerged as the dominant body type, commanding a 62.6% share of the total car sales, with 357,984 units sold. Consumers are gravitating toward SUVs not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their elevated driving position, safety features, and spacious interiors.
Other body types followed at a distance:
Sedans captured 22.2% of the market with 126,928 units.
Hatchbacks (H/B) claimed 14.4% of sales, totaling 82,184 units.
The rise of SUVs aligns with global automotive trends, further signaling Türkiye’s shift toward premium-feeling yet versatile vehicles.
Powertrain Preferences: Gasoline Still Dominant, But Electric Gains Ground
In terms of fuel types, gasoline-powered cars continue to dominate the Turkish market, but alternative drivetrains are quickly gaining popularity.
Gasoline vehicles led the market with 266,095 units sold, representing a 46.5% share.
Hybrid models followed with 153,363 units sold, accounting for 26.8% of total sales.
Electric vehicles (EVs) surged to 103,310 units, capturing 18.1% of the market.
Diesel sales dropped to 45,678 units (8% share).
LPG-powered vehicles had a marginal presence with 3,752 units sold, making up just 0.7%.
This shift highlights a growing consumer awareness of environmental concerns, combined with the Turkish government’s support for cleaner technologies and reduced tax rates for low-emission vehicles.
Electric Vehicle Sales Skyrocket
One of the most remarkable trends in 2025 is the exponential growth in electric vehicle sales. Driven by government incentives, expanding charging infrastructure, and increased model availability, EVs are fast becoming mainstream in Türkiye.
EVs with less than 160 kW of power grew by an impressive 108.6%, now accounting for 14% of total sales.
EVs exceeding 160 kW recorded a 233.2% increase in sales, securing a 4.1% market share.
This boom reflects a broader global transition to electrification, with Türkiye positioning itself as a rapidly adapting market in the region.
Engine Size and Transmission Trends
When examined by engine size:
Cars under 1600cc still lead in volume but saw a 23.6% decline, representing 54.3% of total sales.
Vehicles in the 1600–2000cc range experienced a 4.9% increase, holding 0.6% market share.
2000cc+ vehicles recorded an 18.8% increase, though they remain a niche with only 0.2% market share.
Meanwhile, transmission preferences are overwhelmingly tilted toward convenience:
Automatic transmissions dominated the market, with 541,388 units sold—accounting for 94.6% of total car sales.
Manual transmissions, by contrast, made up just 5.4% (30,810 units), indicating a significant shift in driving habits.
This trend underlines Türkiye’s movement toward more advanced, user-friendly automotive technologies, especially in congested urban areas.
Light Commercial Vehicle Market: Vans in the Lead
The LCV market, a vital segment of the Turkish economy—particularly for tradespeople and small businesses—also experienced robust growth in July.
Van-type vehicles led the way, with a 72.7% market share and 104,271 units sold.
Pick-up trucks (kamyonet) followed with a 9.9% share (14,178 units).
The dominance of van body types reflects the sector’s dependence on high-capacity, fuel-efficient vehicles for urban logistics and regional transport.
Key Takeaways and Market Outlook
Türkiye’s automotive market in 2025 shows resilience and adaptability in a dynamic global environment. Key factors contributing to growth include:
A robust demand for low-tax, compact vehicles.
The meteoric rise of SUVs as the new standard.
A definitive shift toward electrification, led by consumer preference and governmental policies.
Technological upgrades in drivetrains and safety systems that resonate with modern buyers.
As Türkiye continues to urbanize and modernize its transportation infrastructure, vehicle preferences will likely tilt further toward eco-friendly, digitally integrated, and performance-oriented models.
With nearly 715,000 vehicles sold in just the first seven months of the year and electric vehicles recording triple-digit growth, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for the Turkish automotive sector.
