01/07/2026 03:47 - Economia
According to official data from the Association of Automotive Dealers of the Argentine Republic (ACARA), the market for new vehicles (known locally as "0km") experienced a significant downturn. In June 2026, only 45,995 units were registered, representing a 12.8% year-over-year decline compared to the 52,730 units registered in June 2025.
However, there's room for optimism: June 2026 showed a 7.2% improvement over May 2026, which had seen only 42,920 registrations. This suggests the market may be finding its footing after a turbulent start to the year.
For international readers, it's important to understand that Argentina has a robust domestic automotive industry. Many of the best-selling vehicles are manufactured locally in industrial hubs like Zárate and Pacheco (Buenos Aires province), Ferreyra (Córdoba), and Alvear (Santa Fe). This local production is a key driver of the country's economy and employment.
The term "0km" (zero kilometers) is commonly used in Argentina and other Latin American countries to refer to brand-new vehicles that have never been owned by a private individual.
Key insight: The rise of BYD in the top 10 manufacturers signals a growing acceptance of Chinese automotive brands in the Argentine market, a trend that has been accelerating in recent years.
Notable: Chinese brand BYD entered the top 10 manufacturers for the first time, reflecting shifting consumer preferences.
The monthly ranking revealed surprising movements. The Fiat Cronos, once Argentina's best-selling car, climbed back to second place, proving it remains the "workhorse" of Argentine families. Meanwhile, the Peugeot 208, which had held a top-3 position for much of the year, dramatically fell to eighth place.
Key fact: Out of the 10 best-selling models in June, 6 are manufactured in Argentina, highlighting the importance of the domestic auto industry.
| Rank | Model | June Units | 2026 Total | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota Hilux | 3,002 | 15,549 | 🇦🇷 Zárate, Buenos Aires |
| 2 | Fiat Cronos | 1,900 | – | 🇦🇷 Ferreyra, Córdoba |
| 3 | Ford Ranger | 1,786 | 10,398 | 🇦🇷 Pacheco, Buenos Aires |
| 4 | Ford Territory | 1,584 | 10,592 | 🇨🇳 Imported from China |
| 5 | Volkswagen Amarok | – | 8,088 | 🇦🇷 Pacheco, Buenos Aires |
| 6 | Volkswagen Tera | 1,131 | 8,240 | 🇧🇷 Imported from Brazil |
| 7 | Chevrolet Tracker | 1,113 | 7,603 | 🇦🇷 Alvear, Santa Fe |
| 8 | Peugeot 208 | 1,089 | 11,470 | 🇦🇷 El Palomar, Buenos Aires |
| 9 | Toyota Yaris Cross | 1,075 | 4,479 | 🇧🇷 Imported from Brazil |
| 10 | Chevrolet Onix | 1,073 | 7,210 | 🇧🇷 Imported from Brazil |
Ford Territory leads the SUV segment and consolidates as the best-selling SUV of the semester with 10,592 accumulated units, demonstrating Argentine consumers' growing preference for SUVs.
Sebastián Beato, president of ACARA, provided an encouraging analysis:
"The first part of the year was marked by excess inventory, demand uncertainty, and fierce price competition. However, after months of deceleration, manufacturers and dealerships are adjusting, and we're already seeing signs of recovery on the horizon."
Beato highlighted key tools for recovery:
"June figures already show recovery compared to May, and we expect a stronger second half with sustained growth through year-end," the executive concluded.
Data provided by the Association of Automotive Dealers of the Argentine Republic (ACARA). Original article: iProfesional
Alfredo S. Quiroga
