Romanian auto market: Surprise growth in May, but the balance for the first 5 months of 2026 remains in the red
The Romanian automotive market is going through a period of profound reconfiguration in 2026, marked by contradictory trends. According to the latest data published by the Romanian Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACAROM), May brought a breath of fresh air for dealers, but the overall evolution of the first five months reflects a visible moderation in Romanians' appetite for new vehicle purchases.
May, a month of revival for new cars
In May, Romanians purchased 11,250 new cars, which represents an increase of 6.93% compared to the same period in 2025. This positive evolution since the end of spring indicates a temporary revitalization of the market, probably also supported by commercial fleet deliveries or the start of government stimulus programs.
However, the enthusiasm in May fails to compensate for the decline recorded at the beginning of the year. Between January and May 2026, Romanians bought a total of 48,730 new cars, a figure down by 9.33% compared to the first five months of last year.
Market analysis: Although May was a month of growth, the downward trend over the first 5 months suggests that economic prudence and financing costs still have a say in Romanians' purchasing decisions.
The "green" revolution: Hybrids crush the competition, diesel becomes history
The most spectacular evolution is observed in Romanians' preferences in terms of engine options. The era of diesel engines seems to have finally ended, while hybrid technologies have become the main option for buyers.
Of the total volume of new cars sold in the first 5 months, over half are hybrid models. Gasoline holds on to second place, but at an astronomical distance.
Top of the most preferred engines in the first 5 months of 2026:
| Position | Powertrain Type | Units Sold (Jan-May) |
| 1 | Hybrid (HEV/PHEV/MHEV) | 28,810 |
| 2 | Petrol / Gasoline | 8,717 |
| 3 | Electric (100% EV) | 4,026 |
| 4 | LPG | 3,847 |
| 5 | Diesel | 3,330 |
Electric cars maintain a solid position on the podium (3rd place, with 4,026 units), narrowly surpassing LPG alternatives and leaving diesel engines in last place in the ranking (only 3,330 units).
Dacia remains the distant leader. BYD makes its way into the Top 10
In the brand ranking, Dacia maintains its crown as the undisputed leader on the local market, recording 8,826 units sold since the beginning of the year. In second place are the Japanese from Toyota (5,509 units), recognized for their offensive in the hybrid segment, while the podium is completed by Skoda (4,230 units).
A notable surprise is the presence of the Chinese giant BYD in the top of preferences, managing to take the last position in the Top 10, a clear signal that Asian electric and hybrid vehicles are starting to gain solid ground in Eastern Europe.
Top 10 car brands in Romania (January – May 2026):
- Dacia – 8,826 copies
- Toyota – 5,509 units
- Skoda – 4,230 units
- Volkswagen – 4,003 copies
- Hyundai – 2,068 units
- Ford – 2,065 units
- Mercedes-Benz – 2,050 units
- Renault – 2,048 units
- BMW – 1,873 units
- BYD – 1,646 units
The second-hand market, in free fall
Traditionally extremely strong in Romania, the used car market is showing serious signs of fatigue. Romanians seem less and less interested in imported or second-hand vehicles.
- In May, 26,340 used cars were registered, which represents a massive 20.3% decrease compared to May 2025.
- In the first 5 months, the used car market contracted by 12.2%, with a total volume of 117,595 units.
This sharp decline in the second-hand market, correlated with the advance of new cars in May and the appetite for hybrids, shows a maturation of the Romanian public, which is gradually migrating towards safer, less polluting mobility solutions with a manufacturer's warranty.