The new car sales data for March 2026 have been released by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) and the figures indicate a recovery following a slump in February 2026 and keeps in line with the association’s projection for the year. A total of 63,489 units were sold in March 2026, a 21% increase over the
The new car sales data for March 2026 have been released by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) and the figures indicate a recovery following a slump in February 2026 and keeps in line with the association’s projection for the year.
A total of 63,489 units were sold in March 2026, a 21% increase over the figures for February 2026. The Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive period that sees brands roll out promotions and rebates to push sales played a major part in the numbers climbing. Nonetheless, the MAA clarified that the abysmally low numbers in February was due to the Chinese New Year festivities that resulted in just 17 working days.
Taking into account the new figures, it follows the trajectory outlined by the MAA that reflected a healthy month-on-month recovery.
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However, the sales recorded lag behind the corresponding period in 2025 that saw 72,931 units sold, or a 13% drop.
As for the year-to-date figures, they weigh in at 182,113 units, or a slight 3% reduction compared to the corresponding period in 2025.
On an overall scale, the March 2026 volume is considered marginally low but still remains broadly within the recent five-year average of approximately 72,000 units. Despite the significant increase over February 2026, the MAA cites the minimal drop due to the Hari Raya festive holidays (including the additional public holiday declared on 20 March 2026) and the corresponding temporary plant shutdowns during the festive period.
As for the April 2026 outlook, the MAA expects the figures to consolidate and continue its upward trajectory.
For now, the 2026 total industry volume (TIV) remains at the forecasted 790,000 units but is not predicted to eclipse or even match 2025’s record-breaking 820,752 units. Once again, the slight decline is primarily due to the rising cost of living and weaker consumer purchasing power.