Chinese car brands squeeze Nissan, GM and Volkswagen in Mexico
Chinese car brands are taking ground from Nissan, General Motors and Volkswagen in Mexico, even after a 50% import tariff. The shift comes as Mexico deepened technology and investment ties with South Korea. It also hosted more than 100 US executives at the 100 Summit. President Claudia Sheinbaum, meanwhile, says she is optimistic about a US trade deal despite the US–Canada rupture. The post…
Mexico's car market is undergoing a transformation, as Chinese brands increasingly dominate the new-car landscape, data published on August 25, 2026, reveal. Two-thirds of vehicles sold between January and July were imports, with nearly one in four being Chinese-made. This surge in Chinese sales erodes the market share of established brands such as Nissan, General Motors, and Volkswagen.
According to the Automotive Dealers Association (AMDA), Chinese brands' share rose from 12.5% in 2024 to 15% in 2025, outpacing the historic leaders. Nissan's market share dropped from 17% to 16%, while General Motors and Volkswagen saw declines from 19% to 13% and 13% to 11%, respectively. The momentum continued into 2026, with Chinese brands holding about 16% of the market in the first quarter alone.
This trend holds even after accounting for a 50% tariff on Chinese cars. In the first half of 2026, dealers sold 754,394 cars, up 5.3% year on year, surpassing the 2017 record. Chinese-built vehicles, counting those built in China regardless of the brand, accounted for 22.8% of January-to-July sales, making China the leading origin of cars sold in Mexico.
While not all Chinese brands are winning, BYD's growth of 87% and Changan's 184% from 2024 to 2025 indicate a shift in the market. Premium marques, including Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo, are also experiencing declines. Despite price remaining a Chinese advantage, the tariff and strategic use of stockpiled inventory allow them to maintain their momentum.
South Korea's Foreign Secretary met Mexican officials to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on technology and capital partnerships as the USMCA review begins.
Written by urgent.news from The Rio Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
