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Small Cars - South Korea

South Korea
  • Revenue in the Small Cars market is projected to reach US$4bn in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of -0.46%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$4bn by 2029.
  • Small Cars market unit sales are expected to reach 277.7k vehicles in 2029.
  • The volume weighted average price of Small Cars market in 2024 is expected to amount to US$15k.
  • 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 South Korea has been experiencing steady growth in recent years. Customer preferences, trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors all contribute to this development.

    Customer preferences in South Korea have played a significant role in the growth of the Small Cars market. South Korean consumers tend to prioritize fuel efficiency, compact size, and affordability when choosing a car. Small cars, also known as compact cars, meet these preferences by offering good fuel economy, easy maneuverability in congested urban areas, and lower price points compared to larger vehicles.

    Additionally, the younger generation in South Korea, who are increasingly becoming car owners, also prefer small cars due to their practicality and lower maintenance costs. Trends in the market further support the growth of the Small Cars segment in South Korea. The rise of ride-sharing services and the increasing popularity of urban living have led to a higher demand for compact and fuel-efficient vehicles.

    Small cars are well-suited for navigating crowded city streets and are more economical in terms of fuel consumption, making them an attractive choice for urban dwellers. Additionally, the development of electric and hybrid small cars has also contributed to the market growth, as eco-friendly options are becoming more appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Local special circumstances in South Korea have also influenced the Small Cars market.

    The government has implemented various policies and incentives to promote the adoption of small and eco-friendly vehicles. These include tax benefits, subsidies, and preferential parking for compact cars. The government's focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality has created a favorable environment for the growth of the Small Cars market.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors have also contributed to the development of the Small Cars market in South Korea. The country's strong economic growth and rising disposable incomes have increased the purchasing power of consumers, making car ownership more accessible. Additionally, the high population density and limited space in urban areas make small cars a practical choice for many South Koreans.

    In conclusion, the Small Cars market in South Korea is experiencing growth due to customer preferences for fuel efficiency and affordability, market trends favoring compact and eco-friendly vehicles, local special circumstances such as government incentives, and underlying macroeconomic factors such as rising disposable incomes. These factors combined create a favorable environment for the Small Cars market to thrive in South Korea.

    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).

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