23:49 07-04-2026

Japanese passenger car sales drop 5.4% in Q4 2025/26 fiscal year

Japanese car sales fell 5.4% in Q4 2025/26, with 1.04 million vehicles sold. Mitsubishi and Daihatsu bucked the trend with growth, reshaping the 2026 model competition.

The Japanese passenger car market ended the fourth quarter of the 2025/26 fiscal year with a decline in sales. According to JAMA, 1.04 million vehicles were sold, marking a 5.4% drop compared to the same period last year—a decrease of approximately 60,000 cars.

Amid the overall market downturn, Mitsubishi and Daihatsu managed to post sales growth, standing out from other manufacturers. These brands were among the few that improved their performance despite the weakening demand.

This situation reflects broader market shifts, where competition is intensifying and demand is becoming less stable. Even as overall volumes shrink, some companies are finding opportunities for growth through their strategic approach and product lineup.

Such results are reshaping the competitive landscape for new 2026 models in Japan's domestic market, where automakers continue to adapt to evolving demand conditions.