Which brand is leading in the Ukrainian car market: the hit of the year and the amazing breakthrough of BYD

October 2025 became a real stage of the “automotive spring” for Ukraine — our car dealerships set a new record: Ukrainians purchased almost 8 thousand new cars per month, and the top positions in the ranking were unexpectedly changed by the “newcomer from China” — BYD, which increased sales by 6,5 times over the year. What do these figures indicate for the market? Why did Toyota and Volkswagen lose leadership? Which models became the favorites of the month, and how can these trends be useful to future buyers?

BYD — a major breakthrough: how a Chinese brand became #1

In the fall of 2025, the “automobile world” of Ukraine woke up under the sign of BYD: more than 1,200 new cars of this brand found their owners in just 31 days. For comparison: a year ago, the brand was almost invisible. Experts explain such a pace by a combination of price, technology and quick response to requests: BYD is betting on electric cars, modern crossovers and an impressive level of equipment even in the base¹.

In the top of sales: BYD Song, BYD Seal, BYD Han, as well as the electric line, which includes the DM-i and e-platform models, created for Ukrainian roads. Owner reviews indicate: “The car charges quickly, is not afraid of the cold, holds the road even after a year of use.”

Toyota, Volkswagen and their new strategies

Toyota is the second most popular choice (978 cars in October): Camry, Corolla, RAV4 have the upper hand, and new hybrids are being dismantled in a matter of days. Volkswagen, with 856 sales, has become the “definition of reliability” after the appearance of the ID.Unyx model, an electric car that inspires even conservative fans of gasoline classics.

Škoda, Renault, Hyundai, BMW, Audi, Zeekr, Nissan also made the top 10 — their crossovers and hatchbacks remain popular choices in cities and on highways.

Ukrainian market: from crisis to revolution

After difficult years of war and a market “on the run,” car sales finally grew by 14% compared to September, and the annual result added 3% to last year — this is a signal for manufacturers: demand is recovering, interest in new products is huge. The choice of electric cars has changed — today even a budget driver is looking not just for transportation, but for economy and ecology.

New cars and models of the year: what do Ukrainians choose?

Volkswagen ID.Unyx became a real sensation - stylish, electric, with a range of 500 km and fast charging. BMW i4 - the leader in comfort and handling, entered the top of the experts' ratings. Toyota offers hybrids for "city and highway", BYD Seal - more than 650 km on a single charge, becoming a bestseller among the business class.

For crossover lovers - Hyundai Tucson, Škoda Kodiaq, Renault Arkana, Audi Q5. If the budget is limited - Nissan Micra, Zeekr 001, Renault Logan are convenient to start with, and their sales are steadily growing.

The electric vehicle boom and the mood of the future

The best electric cars of the year are BMW i4 (maneuverability, comfort), BYD Seal, Audi e-tron, Volkswagen ID.4. BGR experts and British resources advise paying attention to models with a range of over 500 km, two types of charging, and also the possibility of resale without loss of price¹.

Personal experience: what do new owners say?

“Choosing BYD is a new era: the car charges in winter without any problems, operating costs are minimal, and the service is quite fast,” shares Vladyslav, a Kyiv taxi driver.

“Toyota Corolla is not cheap, but economical, ideal for city routes, and the new hybrid really saves on fuel. Experience confirms a simple truth: the optimal choice depends not only on price, but also on lifestyle.”

Used cars and the secondary market: trends for 2025

In parallel with new cars, sales of used models are growing: “Dry burdock” (Volkswagen Golf), “champion of the plains” (Renault Duster) are the favorites of the secondary market. Sellers advise to check the “rehva” well, not to believe the prices without checking the condition, and to pay attention to the documents and service history.

How to choose and not make a mistake?

Expert advice: find a balance between budget, technology, service, and real reviews. If you often drive around the city, a crossover, electric car, or hybrid will be the best solution. For those who work on the highway, a diesel or gasoline classic with low costs.

Conclusion: the future is in the details and choice

The Ukrainian car market is not just a story about numbers and brands, but about a new sense of freedom, ecology, technology, and confidence. It will become even more dynamic during 2025: automakers will invest in service and support, and owners will count every hryvnia, demanding the best for their money.

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