Chile May 2024: Suzuki repeats at #1, market back into negative territory

The Suzuki Fronx has landed in Chile.

23,337 new light vehicles hit Chilean roads in May, which means that after a sliver of hope in April (+30.6%), the market is back in negative for the 21st time in the past 22 months at -8.9% year-on-year. This is a particularly poor result as May 2023 as down -32.4% on the year prior. The year-to-date total is now off -12.2% to 119,919. Suzuki (+25.9%) ignores the surrounding gloom to post a fantastic year-on-year lift. It is followed by Chevrolet, also in positive (+1.5%). Toyota (-39.8%) is in dire straits at #3 but remains #1 year-to-date. Kia (-17.3%) also struggles but manages to keep its loss below the market rate. Further down, JMC (+121.8%), Jetour (+107.9%), Mitsubishi (+101.1%) and GWM (+81.7%) stand out. As a whole, Chinese carmakers edge down just -1.2% for an improved 31.1% share.

Model-wise, the Toyota Hilux (-36.8%) remains at #1, a ranking it now holds year-to-date, toppling the Mitsubishi L200 yet up 254% for the month. The Suzuki Swift (+5.3%) climbs to #2 overall and #3 year-to-date while the GWM Poer (+53.3%) is up three spots to #3. The Maxus T60 (-18.2%) makes it two Chinese pickups in the Top 5. Notice also the Chevrolet Sail (+198.2%), Hyundai Grand i10 (+81.6%) and Suzuki Jimny (record #13) making themselves noticed.

Previous month: Chile April 2024: Market ends 20-month loss streak, bounces back up 30.6%

One year ago: Chile May 2023: Nissan, Peugeot ignore market sinking -32.4%

Full May 2024 Top 70 All brands and Top 40 models below.