Mid-size Korean Automakers Hit by Slump: November Sales Down Domestically and Abroad
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
Three mid-size South Korean automakers faced double setbacks in November as both domestic and export sales fell. KG Mobility sold 8,971 units (domestic 3,121, export 5,850), roughly flat year-on-year, helped by strong sales of the mid-size SUV Torres (1,127 units) and increased exports to Turkey and Hungary. GM Korea’s total sales dropped 11.7% to 43,799 units (domestic 973, export 42,826) amid weak demand for models like the Trax and Trailblazer. Renault Korea saw the steepest decline, with total sales down 69.4% to 4,649 units (domestic 3,575, export 1,074); flagship model Grand Koleos domestic sales fell 63.5%. Industry analysts attribute the downturn to depleted electric vehicle subsidies, weaker domestic consumption, and slowing global auto demand. Companies hope that expanding export markets and launching eco-friendly models will be key to recovery next year. (Torres: a popular mid-size SUV model; Grand Koleos: Renault Korea’s flagship SUV)
