September 2026 Auto Sales Hit Record High: Two-Wheelers Lead (AI-Generated Image) India's auto retail hit 25,36,920 units in September 2026, up 31.82% year-on-year, making it the best September on record, according to dealer body FADA. Two-wheelers and passenger vehicles both grew over 32%. The jump is inflated because buyers held back purchases in September 2025 before GST 2.0 took effect on September 22, so the real signals are the 4.69% rise over August and an underlying run-rate of about 17%. For buyers, the bigger story is dealer stock at 43 to 45 days of PVs, worth knowing before you negotiate. Here is what the numbers say and what October could bring. Also Read: Skoda Slavia Facelift Launch Tomorrow: Price Expectations As per the FADA data, Honda and TVS gained share on last September, while Hero and Bajaj (9.28%, down from 10.72%) lost some. Among electrics, Ather grew from 19,620 to 30,533 units, but Ola slipped from 13,862 to 13,451 even as the market grew by a third. EVs made up 11.58% of two-wheeler sales. Passenger vehicle retail hits a record high in September 2026, with sales rising 32.10% year-on-year as Maruti Suzuki leads the market. (AI-Generated Image) These figures don't separate cars from SUVs. On fuel, petrol held 41.27% against a combined 41% for CNG, hybrid and EV, which is effectively a tie. EV share reached a new high of 8.45%. September 2025 was weak because buyers waited for the GST changes, so the 31.82% flatters this year's number. Retail grew about 17% over the first five months of FY2027, which is a fairer read. April to September totalled 1,55,12,319 units, up 20.77%, the best first half on record. Passenger vehicle inventory rose by another five days to around 43 to 45 days, against a 21-day benchmark and 60% of PV dealers are holding more stock ahead of the festivals. Dealer optimism for October rose to 75.57% from 67.09%, with deliveries expected to pick up from mid-month once Navratri begins on October 11. Dealers name October price increases as the main risk, so compare final on-road prices and check availability of your exact variant before booking. Reetika is a passionate storyteller with a love for books, music, and the performing arts. Her stage journey has taken her to notable platforms, inclu... View More