China imports January 2025: Mercedes leads, market off -29.9%

Mercedes is the most popular import brand for the first time in a year.

Chinese imports are hit hard in January at -29.9% year-on-year to 52,840 units. However keep in mind January 2024 was up 36% on the year prior. Mercedes (-17.8%) scores its first win since January 2024 thanks to relatively strong sales in context. Lexus (-22.6%) also beats the market but drops to #2. BMW (-33.2%) stays at #3 while Land Rover (-14.1%) overtakes Porsche (-44.4%) to #4. Jeep (-83.6%), Mini (-74.8%) and Audi (-50.3%) all implode as there are no gainers in the Top 13. Ferrari (+241.7%) and Suzuki (+176.7%) both surge but sell less than 100 units.

Over in the models aisle, the Lexus ES (-26.4%) keeps the lead with over 7,500 units despite a harsh year-on-year drop. The Mercedes GLE (-17.6%) and Lexus RX (+4.3%) follow, replicating the FY2024 podium. The Range Rover (+12.4%) steps up to #4 while the Mercedes GLS (-40.5%) and Porsche Cayenne (-42.1%) are both in trouble. There are no upticks in the remainder of the Top 20. The Mercedes CLE (#22) is the best-selling recent launch above the Mercedes Maybach GLS (#40).

Previous post: China imports Full Year 2024: Lexus ES, Mercedes GLE and Lexus RX on top

One year ago: China imports January 2024: Mercedes #1, sales up 36%

Full January 2025 Top 40 All brands and Top 175 All models below.