New Delhi, May 5, 2025 — India’s automobile industry is rewriting its global narrative, with six made-in-India car models—Hyundai Verna, Nissan Magnite, Jeep Meridian, Honda City, Honda Elevate, and Nissan Sunny—outselling domestically in international markets. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), this shift reflects tepid domestic demand and automakers’ strategic pivot to meet robust global appetite. “India is no longer just a market; it’s a manufacturing powerhouse,” said SIAM president Vinod Aggarwal, highlighting the sector’s growing export prowess in FY25.

Hyundai Verna, relaunched in 2023, struggled against India’s SUV craze, selling modestly at home. Yet, it found fervent buyers in the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, with over 50,000 units exported in FY25. Similarly, Nissan Magnite, launched in 2020 for Indian buyers, saw exports nearly match domestic sales, with 29,155 units shipped abroad against 27,881 sold locally. Honda Elevate, despite high hopes, sold only 22,321 units in India but exported 45,167, a 54% production increase driven by demand in Japan, where it’s marketed as the WR-V. Jeep Meridian also joined this export-driven trend, capitalizing on global SUV popularity.

This export surge, fueled by the Make in India initiative, underscores India’s role as a global auto hub. Automakers have leveraged excess production capacity to fulfill international orders, sustaining supplier networks and boosting foreign exchange earnings. “Exports saved these models from fading away,” noted automotive analyst Rohan Desai, adding that the trend creates jobs and attracts investment. As India’s auto sector navigates domestic challenges, its ability to cater to diverse global tastes signals a promising future, cementing its place on the world stage.