American car models lead Latin America sales

Automobile sales in Latin America during the first semester of 2019 were dominated by American car models, according to automotive research and data group Focus2Move.

The best-selling model was the Chevrolet Onix subcompact hatch, continuing its reign throughout the region. From January-June, 132,842 units were sold, representing a 16.4% uptick from the previous year and the only model in the top five posting better sales year-over-year.

2019 Chevrolet Onix (source: General Motors)

Wrapping up the top five is the Ford Ka subcompact hatch (#2) which saw sales drop 3.5% to 82,828 units, Toyota Hilux pickup (#3) down 4.6% to 62,981, Volkswagen Gol subcompact hatch (#3) down 7.7% to 57,769, and Nissan Versa compact sedan (#5) down 13.5% to 56,956 units.

2019 Ford Ka (source: Ford)

Latin America’s economy is expected to increase some 1.7% in 2019, a bit lower than estimates earlier this year. Economic performance in 2020, however, does look like it will be a bit better, according to local media reports.

Remaining Top 10

6. Hyundai HB20 (subcompact hatch) up 5% to 54,053 units
7. Renault Kwid (subcompact hatch) up 19.3% to 52,143 units
8. Chevrolet Prisma (compact sedan) down 6.6% to 49,120 units
9. Nissan Kicks (compact SUV) up 2.5% to 43,821 units
10. Renault Sandero (subcompact hatch) down 21% to 42,162 units

2019 Renault Kwid, the best year-over-year sales increase in 1H19 (source: Renault) pictured is the Outsider sports model