The first quarter of 2024 saw new-car sales finally settling back into normalcy after years of supply-chain issues and overall industry turmoil due to the pandemic. Despite the challenges faced by the auto industry in recent times, some fresh models were able to make their way to the list of bestsellers. The list features some familiar automakers like Honda and Toyota, as well as some surprising entries at both ends of the scale.
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With full-size pickup truck sales down and compact cars posting big increases, it seems like the industry is experiencing an upside-down scenario. However, the settling of new-car sales to normal levels after years of supply-chain issues is a positive sign.
Although prices are still high as the naira continues to battle with the dollar and customs duties on automobiles are still very high as the exchange rate hit N1125.04. This post features the top 10 bestselling new cars sold in Nigeria during the first quarter of 2024. It includes only the models popular in Nigeria
10. Hyundai Tucson – 45,509 units sold
The Tucson, Hyundai’s small crossover SUV, was redesigned in 2022, and its doors pop with bulges and wedges, and sharp lines extend from the front doors to the rear taillights. A wide-slatted grille is complemented by segmented LED accent lights and the roof tapers to the back for a sporty look. Exciting design won’t save a bad car, though, and fortunately, Tucson is a good car.
It’s roomy and comfortable, with good headroom in front and rear rows, a minimal and classy interior, and abundant cargo space that’s among the best in the class. The Tucson’s standard four-cylinder engine is painfully slow, but fortunately, an available turbocharged hybrid powertrain gives the Tucson plenty of punch plus an EPA-estimated 37 mpg in combined driving.
9. Jeep Grand Cherokee – 54,455 units sold
The Jeep Cherokee has a big challenge to contend with, which has to deliver the kind of comfort and convenience that everyone expects of family-friendly small SUVs such as the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. On the other, it’s a Jeep and it needs more off-road capabilities than those more conventional crossovers. It fills the middle ground between the smaller Jeep Compass and larger Grand Cherokee nicely, and it’s in a numerical tie for fourth place with the Hyundai Tucson in Edmunds’ rankings. That could all change soon, though.
8. Ford Explorer – 58,465 units sold
Ford has just revealed the 2025 Explorer Facelift and wow things improved. Starting now at almost 50 million naira, the Explorer receives a new face and rear with a bold front grille, new LED headlights, a new bumper, and sleek LED taillights. Also new for this year is the Vapor Blue Metallic exterior paint. The four trims that will be available are Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum. For now, gone are the XLT, Timberline, Limited, and King Ranch variants.
For now, powertrains are the same. The base is a 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder making 300HP and 310 lb-ft of torque. Then comes the 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 making 400HP and 415 lb-ft of torque. The troublesome 10-speed automatic has been heavily revised and recalibrated.
7. Toyota Corolla – 60,071 units sold
I am certain that some Nigerians might be surprised to see the Toyota Corolla on this list, as many thought it would be the highest-selling car. Nevertheless, the popularity of the Corolla may vary in different parts of the world, and the Honda Civic has proven to be a close rival to it. Although the sales of the Corolla compact car increased by an impressive 40 per cent in the first quarter, it was not enough to surpass its competitor, the Honda Civic. We will keep an eye on this rivalry throughout the year to see who comes out on top.
6. Honda Civic – 61,929 units sold
The Honda Civic is a popular car choice in Nigeria known for its affordability and dependability. It comes in both coupe and sedan versions with three main trims, with special models like the hybrid, GX (natural gas), and Si offering different features to suit various preferences. Engine options range from a 1.8-litre engine with 140 horsepower in regular models to a powerful 2.0-litre engine with 197 horsepower. The Civic has been among the best-selling compact cars in the country, with a 36 per cent increase in sales. This achievement even earned it a place in the top 10 bestsellers. Additionally, a Civic Hybrid is expected to join the lineup for the 2025 model year.
5. Toyota Camry – 78,337 units sold
Wherever you spot a Toyota Corolla, you will likely see a Toyota Camry nearby in Nigeria. Both sedans have become very popular in the Nigerian automobile market over the years. The Toyota Camry Hybrid is a mid-size car that aims to compete with other popular models such as the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata. It may not be the most exciting option, but it is favoured for its affordability, spaciousness, and efficiency.
But the newest model the 2025 Camry Hybrid has undergone a revamp, with updates to its interior and modern infotainment technology, as well as styling inspired by the larger Crown sedan. Additionally, it has improved its fuel efficiency by offering only two hybrid options, eliminating the V-6 and non-hybrid four-cylinders. The Camry continues to hold its top spot among passenger cars (excluding SUVs and pickup trucks). Sales were up 19 per cent in the first quarter, and this is of the old model, as the new hybrid-only 2025 Camry has yet to go on.
4. Nissan Rogue – 90,804 units sold
The Nissan Rogue has always been a popular choice among buyers due to its affordability and practicality, making it suitable for various automotive needs. According to Car and Driver, the SV trim could be the best package to consider if you’re planning to buy a 2020 Rogue. The sales of Nissan Rogue have been strong this year, with a 19 per cent increase over the previous year. This might be attributed to the recent styling update and introduction of new features in the 2024 model.
3. Honda CR-V – 95,038 units sold
The Honda CR-V was unable to surpass the Toyota RAV4 in sales, but it still managed to sell 41 per cent more cars than it did during the same period last year. Interestingly, more than half of the total sales were of the CR-V Hybrid, showing a growing demand for hybrid vehicles. The non-hybrid Honda CR-V for 2024 will see an increase in prices. However, there are no other significant changes to the vehicle.
The CR-V is known for its reliable performance, spacious interiors, smooth driving experience, and comes with the option of front- or all-wheel drive. Additionally, the car has a 190-hp turbocharged engine and comes with an optional 204-hp hybrid version that we have reviewed separately.
2. Toyota RAV4 – 124,822 units sold
The Toyota RAV4 has been the top-selling non-truck of the year so far with a 47% increase in sales compared to last year. It remains to be seen if it can maintain this position for the whole year. This year, the RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims will feature the Army Green paint colour, which is already used on some of Toyota’s larger trucks and SUVs. This hue will be available as a no-cost option, and a two-tone colour scheme will also be offered for these trims, with a black or white roof.
Despite turning 30 years old this year, the Toyota RAV4 continues to be Nigeria’s best-selling mini SUV, and it’s easy to see why. The RAV4 is practical, fuel-efficient, and has a rugged appearance, making it ideal for getting the job done without any fuss.
1. Ford F-Series: 152,943 units sold
Ford’s lineup of light-duty and heavy-duty pickups has always been popular, and it remains a top choice in 2024. However, sales have been down by 10 per cent in the first quarter. The good news is that the electric F-150 Lightning saw an increase in sales, accounting for 7,743 of those sales. While you can still opt for a V-8, most F-150s now come with a turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine. Inside the cabin, the F-150 boasts a modern 12.0-inch infotainment display, and you can also unlock a hands-free driving feature for your highway drives by paying a monthly subscription fee.
This pickup truck has impressive towing capacity numbers and is available in various trim levels to suit every budget. The F-150’s competitors offer similar features, so choosing the right brand of truck comes down to nuances.
Best-Selling Cars Of 2024
- Ford F-Series – 152,943 Units
- Chevrolet Silverado – 127,563 Units
- Toyota RAV4 – 124,822 Units
- Tesla Model Y – 109,000 Units (Est.)
- Honda CR-V – 95,038 Units
- Nissan Rogue – 90,804 Units
- Ram Pickup – 89,417 Units
- Toyota Camry – 78,337 Units
- GMC Sierra – 68,597 Units
- Honda Civic – 61,929 Units
- Toyota Corolla – 60,071 Units
- Ford Explorer – 58,465 Units
- Jeep Grand Cherokee – 54,455 Units
- Chevrolet Equinox – 54,185 Units
- Subaru Forester – 48,546 Units
- Hyundai Tucson – 45,509 Units
- Tesla Model 3 – 42,000 Units (Est.)
- Honda Accord – 41,927 Units
- Nissan Sentra – 40,081 Units
- Ford Transit – 39,890 Units
