Passenger Vehicle Market Maintains Momentum in February 2026
India's passenger vehicle sector demonstrated remarkable resilience in February 2026, maintaining stable sales figures despite the month having fewer days than usual. The consistent performance was driven by robust demand across all vehicle segments, with compact and mid-size SUVs continuing to capture significant buyer interest. Steady bookings and strong dispatches of high-volume models contributed to the overall market stability, reflecting sustained consumer confidence in the automotive industry.
SUV Dominance Continues Unabated
The sales rankings for February 2026 clearly illustrate the ongoing preference for utility vehicles among Indian consumers. Compact and mid-size SUVs dominated the monthly charts, while hatchbacks and sedans maintained consistent volumes. This trend underscores the shifting preferences in the Indian automotive market, where SUVs have established themselves as the preferred choice for a growing number of buyers seeking versatility, commanding road presence, and enhanced driving dynamics.
Top 10 Selling Cars and SUVs in India: February 2026
1. Tata Nexon/EV Range: 19,430 Units
The Tata Nexon lineup, including both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants, secured the top position with combined sales of 19,430 units. This impressive performance highlights the sustained popularity of Tata's sub-compact SUV offering across multiple powertrain options.
The Nexon ICE version provides buyers with multiple engine choices, including a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 120hp and 170Nm of torque, and a CNG variant producing 100hp. For diesel enthusiasts, there's a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine generating 113hp and 260Nm of torque. Transmission options include both manual gearbox and automated manual transmission (AMT).
The Nexon EV continues to attract environmentally conscious buyers with its two battery pack options. The 30kWh version offers an ARAI-certified range of 325km, while the 45kWh variant provides an impressive claimed range of 489km on a full charge. Both electric versions feature a front-mounted electric motor producing 145hp and 215Nm of torque.
2. Maruti Suzuki Dzire: 19,326 Units
Maruti Suzuki's popular compact sedan claimed the second position with 19,326 units dispatched in February 2026. The Dzire now features the brand's new Z-series 1.2-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 82hp and 112Nm of torque.
Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission and an AMT gearbox. The Dzire is available in four trim levels: LXi, VXi, ZXi, and ZXi+. While the manual transmission is offered across all variants, the AMT and CNG options are exclusively available on the VXi and ZXi trims.
3. Tata Punch/EV: 18,748 Units
The Tata Punch facelift and its electric counterpart together recorded 18,748 units, securing third place in the monthly rankings. The updated Punch, starting at Rs 5.59 lakh (ex-showroom), features several enhancements including design revisions, interior updates, additional equipment, and a new engine option.
The SUV offers two petrol engine choices: a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated unit delivering 88PS and 115Nm, and a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 120PS and 170Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The Punch EV comes in Standard and Long Range versions. The Standard variant utilizes a 25kWh battery with a claimed MIDC range of 315km, while the Long Range version features a 35kWh battery rated for 421km. Tata Motors has recently introduced the Punch EV with larger battery packs, with deliveries expected to commence shortly.
4. Hyundai Creta/EV: 17,938 Units
Hyundai's Creta lineup, including the newly introduced Creta Electric, ranked fourth with combined sales of 17,938 units. The conventional Creta offers three engine options:
- A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 160hp and 260Nm
- A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine generating 115PS and 144Nm
- A 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine delivering 116PS and 250Nm
The Creta Electric provides two battery choices: a 42kWh pack with a claimed ARAI range of 390km, and a 51.4kWh pack offering up to 473km on a single charge.
5. Maruti Suzuki Brezza: 17,863 Units
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza captured fifth place with 17,863 units sold in February 2026. This subcompact SUV is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine featuring mild-hybrid technology, producing 103PS and 137Nm.
Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Additionally, a CNG version paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission is available for buyers seeking alternative fuel options.
6. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga: 17,807 Units
The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga secured sixth position with 17,807 units dispatched during the month. This versatile MPV utilizes a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine generating 103hp and 137Nm of torque, available with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Key features include:
- A 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Arkamys sound system
- Automatic climate control
- Three-row, seven-seat configuration
Safety equipment comprises six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and seatbelt reminders for all occupants.
7. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R: 14,885 Units
The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R recorded sales of 14,885 units in February 2026. This practical hatchback offers two engine options: a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol or a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual or AMT.
Notable features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, electric ORVMs, alloy wheels, rear wipers, and steering-mounted controls. Safety features encompass six airbags, ABS, ESC, and hill hold assist.
8. Maruti Suzuki Swift: 14,833 Units
The Maruti Suzuki Swift registered sales of 14,833 units, securing the seventh position in February 2026. This popular hatchback is powered by a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 82hp and 112Nm of torque.
Buyers can opt for either a manual transmission or an AMT. The company claims impressive fuel efficiency figures of 24.8kmpl for manual variants and 25.75kmpl for AMT versions.
9. Mahindra Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic: 14,665 Units
The Mahindra Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic together recorded combined sales of 14,665 units. The Scorpio-N offers two engine options:
- A 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 203hp and 370Nm with manual transmission (380Nm with automatic)
- A 2.2-litre mHawk turbo-diesel producing 175hp and 400Nm
The Scorpio Classic continues with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine paired exclusively with a manual transmission.
10. Maruti Suzuki Baleno: 14,632 Units
Rounding out the top ten was the Maruti Suzuki Baleno with 14,632 units sold during the month. This premium hatchback is equipped with a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine generating 90PS and 113Nm of torque.
Transmission options include a choice between a 5-speed manual gearbox or an AMT, providing flexibility for different driving preferences.
Market Outlook and Consumer Trends
The February 2026 sales figures demonstrate the Indian automotive market's continued strength and adaptability. The dominance of SUVs across multiple price segments indicates a fundamental shift in consumer preferences, while the strong performance of electric vehicle variants highlights growing acceptance of alternative powertrains.
Manufacturers have successfully responded to evolving market demands by offering diverse powertrain options, including petrol, diesel, CNG, and electric variants across their model lineups. This strategic approach has enabled them to cater to a wide spectrum of buyer preferences while maintaining sales momentum even during shorter months.
The consistent performance of established models like the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Dzire, and Hyundai Creta underscores the importance of brand loyalty and product reliability in the competitive Indian automotive landscape. As the market continues to evolve, manufacturers are likely to focus increasingly on electrification, advanced safety features, and connected technologies to maintain their competitive edge.
