Renault’s global sales reached 389,016 new vehicles in the first quarter of this year, marking a 6.5% increase compared to the same period last year.
In its home European market, Renault sold 246,036 vehicles, reflecting a 3.8% year-over-year growth. Electric vehicle (EV) sales surged by 87.9%, while hybrid model sales rose by 46.1%. The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric, named 2025 European Car of the Year, sold over 17,000 units, topping the small electric vehicle segment.
Renault experienced significant growth outside Europe, selling 140,659 units in markets beyond Europe, marking an 11.6% increase year-over-year. This growth reflects the success of Renault’s International Game Plan strategy, which aims to introduce eight new models by 2027, with a focus on regions such as South Korea, India, Latin America, Turkey, and Morocco.
The success in the South Korean market stands out. Renault Korea sold over 14,000 units in the first quarter, marking a 147.6% increase from the previous year. The flagship model, the mid-size SUV Grand Koleos, sold 11,341 units in the first quarter, driving sales growth. Since its launch, the model has surpassed 33,000 cumulative sales as of March.
The South American region continued its growth trend. Renault sold 63,700 units, a 21.1% increase year-over-year, primarily in Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil. In Morocco, the popularity of the Clio and Kadjar contributed to a 45.5% increase in sales.
Renault plans to launch new global models in the second half of this year. The company will introduce the Renault 4 E-Tech Electric to the European market and release facelift versions of key models. Additionally, Renault aims to expand the Grand Koleos into overseas markets to strengthen its global influence.
Renault’s first-quarter performance reflects a structural shift in the global automotive market. The rapid growth of the electrification sector, especially in the small electric vehicle market, is a key trend. In Europe, the EV Mandate and stricter carbon emission regulations have driven a surge in demand for small electric vehicles. The success of the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric as the top small electric vehicle in Europe highlights this market shift.
Renault strengthens its approach to markets outside Europe through its International Game Plan, focusing on previously weaker regions. Successes in South Korea, Latin America, and Morocco show that Renault’s global restructuring strategy works. This aligns with trends among other European manufacturers, like Stellantis and Volkswagen, who also enhance strategies for emerging markets.
Renault Korea’s significant sales increase in the South Korean market stands out. The mid-size SUV segment maintains strong demand, and the Grand Koleos has successfully targeted a niche by differentiating itself from domestic competitors with a unique product strategy, including a larger size and competitive pricing.
Looking ahead, Renault plans to expand its market share in the electrification sector by introducing more small electric SUVs like the Renault 4 E-Tech Electric and diversifying its global market presence to mitigate risks. However, with concerns about the global economic slowdown and slowing electric vehicle growth, Renault’s mid-to-long-term strategy will require a more flexible approach to market response.
