Why passenger car sales are rising while commercial vehicle sales fall
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Malaysia’s automotive market is showing a widening split: passenger vehicle sales are still growing, while commercial vehicle sales are under pressure. MAA says the gap is being driven by stronger SUV and EV demand, but weaker pick-up truck sales.
Malaysia’s automotive market is heading in two different directions. The Malaysian Automotive Association said passenger vehicle sales were stronger in the first half of 2026, while commercial vehicle sales continued to shrink.
MAA said total industry volume reached 385,353 units in the first six months of 2026, up 3% from a year earlier. It revised its full-year forecast to 800,000 units, including 744,000 passenger vehicles and 56,000 commercial vehicles.
The association said SUV demand remained firm and EV sales rose sharply. It also said national brands kept a strong market share.
By contrast, commercial vehicle sales fell 11%, with pick-up trucks under pressure after the withdrawal of diesel subsidy for private registrations. MAA said that also affected production in some vehicle categories.
MAA expects consumer confidence, stable financing, new model launches and year-end promotions to support sales in the second half, but it also warned about exchange-rate swings and geopolitical risks.
What it means for you: demand is still stronger for passenger cars than for pick-up and other commercial vehicles, so workshops and dealers may see more business in SUVs, EVs and passenger-car accessories.
Source: NST Online
