Skip to main content
  1. Market Insights
  2. Mobility
  3. Passenger Cars

Small Cars - Asia

Asia
  • Revenue in the Small Cars market is projected to reach US$55bn in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of 0.80%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$58bn by 2029.
  • Small Cars market unit sales are expected to reach 4.2m vehicles in 2029.
  • The volume weighted average price of Small Cars market in 2024 is expected to amount to US$14k.
  • From an international perspective it is shown that the most revenue will be generated China (US$13bn in 2024).

The Small Cars Market segment includes economy passenger cars of an average footprint around 3.7m2 (40 ft2), an average mass around 1200kg (2680lbs) and a passenger/cargo volume between 2.4 m3 and 2.8 m3 (85 ft3 and 99 ft3). All key figures shown represent the sales of new small cars in the basic configuration in the respective year. Used vehicles are not taken into account, nor is adapted equipment for the new cars sold. The prices and revenues shown as well as the distribution of connectivity, drive types, autonomy levels, and average CO2 emissions are accordingly based on the basic models.

  • European Car Segment: B (Small Cars)
  • US Car Segment: Subcompact Cars
  • Chinese Car Segment: Category A
  • Also known as: Light Cars, Superminis

Example models: Citroën C3, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i30, Kia e-Soul, Lancia Ypsilon, Mazda 2, Nissan Note, Opel Corsa, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio, Seat Ibiza, Škoda Fabia, Suziki Swift, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Polo.

In-Scope

  • Economy passenger cars - Small Cars

Out-Of-Scope

  • Small SUVs
  • Sports models
Small Cars: market data & analysis - Cover

Market Insights report

Small Cars: market data & analysis

Study Details

    Unit Sales

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: The chart “Comparable Estimates” shows the forecasted development of the selected market from different sources. Please see the additional information for methodology and publication date.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Analyst Opinion

    The Small Cars market in Asia has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, driven by a combination of customer preferences, market trends, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors.

    Customer preferences:
    In Asia, there is a growing demand for small cars due to their affordability, fuel efficiency, and compact size. Many customers in Asian countries prefer small cars for their daily commuting needs, as they are easier to maneuver through congested city streets and parking spaces. Additionally, small cars are often seen as more practical and economical choices for urban dwellers who prioritize cost savings and convenience.

    Trends in the market:
    One of the key trends in the Small Cars market in Asia is the increasing popularity of electric and hybrid small cars. With the growing concern for environmental sustainability and the push for greener transportation options, many Asian countries have implemented favorable policies and incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles. This has led to a surge in demand for small electric cars, as they offer lower emissions and reduced operating costs. Another trend in the market is the integration of advanced technologies in small cars. Asian consumers are increasingly looking for small cars that come equipped with features like touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone connectivity, advanced safety features, and autonomous driving capabilities. Automakers are responding to this demand by incorporating these technologies into their small car models, making them more appealing to tech-savvy customers.

    Local special circumstances:
    Asia is a diverse region with varying local circumstances that influence the Small Cars market. For example, in countries like Japan and South Korea, there is a strong domestic automotive industry that produces high-quality small cars tailored to the local market preferences. On the other hand, countries like India and China have a large population and growing middle class, creating a huge consumer base for small cars. In these countries, affordability and value for money are key considerations for customers, leading to the popularity of small cars.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    Several macroeconomic factors have contributed to the growth of the Small Cars market in Asia. Rising urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and improving infrastructure have all played a role in driving the demand for small cars. As more people migrate to cities and incomes rise, the need for affordable and efficient transportation options becomes more pressing. Additionally, government initiatives to promote the automotive industry and boost domestic manufacturing have also stimulated the growth of the Small Cars market in Asia. In conclusion, the Small Cars market in Asia is experiencing growth due to customer preferences for affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles, the adoption of advanced technologies, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors. As the demand for small cars continues to rise, automakers are likely to focus on developing innovative and eco-friendly models to cater to the evolving needs of Asian consumers.

    Technical Specifications

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: Level 0: No automation and very limited driver assistance in the form of automatic emergency braking or blind-spot warning. Level 1: Driver assistance such as cruise control or lane centering. Level 2: Partial automation, including brake and steering support. Level 3: Conditional automation in which the vehicle can perform most driving tasks. In certain scenarios, human intervention is still needed.

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Price

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the sales of new passenger cars. Data on the specifications of the sold vehicles is based on the base models of the respective makes.

    Modeling approach:

    Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use company reports and websites, vehicle registries, car dealers, and environment agencies among other sources. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP and car stock per capita. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

    Forecasts:

    In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, we use the ARIMA model for the Passenger Cars market. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

    Additional notes:

    The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year. In some cases, the data is updated on an ad hoc basis (e.g., when new, relevant data has been released or significant changes within the market have an impact on the projected development).

    Mobility

    Access more Market Insights on Mobility topics with our featured report

    Small Cars: market data & analysis - BackgroundSmall Cars: market data & analysis - Cover

    Contact

    Get in touch with us. We are happy to help.