Automotive industry expert Felipe Munoz compiled global car sales data for 2024 from various sources, including national statistics agencies, dealer associations, customs data, specialized websites, blogs, and other analysts’ estimates. His ranking includes 153 markets, accounting for approximately 99% of total car sales worldwide.
According to Munoz’s data, the Toyota RAV4 sold a total of 1,187,000 units in 2024, narrowly surpassing the Tesla Model Y, which sold 1,185,000 units, to become the best-selling car globally.
The Toyota RAV4 has been performing well in the Chinese market. Image source: CarBuzz
It’s worth noting that both the RAV4 and Model Y have received updates since the period covered by the report. Toyota unveiled a completely new design for the RAV4, but it hasn’t hit the market yet. Meanwhile, Tesla introduced the updated Model Y Juniper, which is now available for purchase. Despite this, the Model Y remains the best-selling electric car globally, with a significant lead over its competitors. However, its sales growth slowed down in 2025.
Global car sales ranking compiled by automotive expert Felipe Munoz. Image source: Felipe Munoz
Toyota dominated the top 10 with four models besides the RAV4: the Corolla Cross, Corolla sedan, Hilux, and Camry. Closely following the top two spots is the Toyota Corolla Cross with 859,000 units sold, achieving the highest growth rate in the top 10 at 18%. This compact crossover benefits from its distribution in diverse markets worldwide. Hot on the Corolla Cross’s heels is the Honda CR-V/Breeze with 854,000 units sold. Meanwhile, the Corolla (also known as the Corolla Altis) and Hilux are less popular in the Vietnamese market.
The Hilux may not be a top seller in Vietnam, but it’s the world’s best-selling pickup truck. Image source: Dealer
Toyota continues its reign in the rankings with the Corolla/Levin sedan (697,000 units) in fifth place and the Toyota Hilux (617,000 units) in sixth. Despite the upcoming launch of the new generation, the Hilux remains the world’s best-selling pickup truck, even without a presence in the two largest pickup markets: North America and China. Following the Hilux in the global rankings is the Ford F-150, with 595,000 units sold, claiming seventh place. In the US market, the F-150 was the second best-selling car in 2024, just behind the RAV4.
Three sedans made it to the top 10: the Toyota Camry (593,000 units), Tesla Model 3 (560,000 units), and BYD Qin (502,000 units). BYD’s presence as the sole Chinese brand in this year’s list underscores the company’s growing competitiveness in both the electric vehicle and internal combustion engine segments. With the market’s growing preference for crossovers and SUVs, it’s commendable that these three sedans maintained their positions.
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