Industry officials predict that Türkiye’s automotive market will continue its strong growth trajectory over the next two to three years, including 2026, with new sales records expected each year. Despite economic fluctuations, the sector has achieved its most significant growth momentum in the past five years.
According to industry representatives, Türkiye is increasingly emerging as a strategic production and sales hub in the global automotive market.
The year 2026 is expected to mark a major shift in the industry, with internal combustion engine vehicles rapidly being replaced by electric and hybrid models, continuing what experts describe as a “series of records” in the market.
Strong Market Performance and Record Expectations
Opel Türkiye Brand Director Yiğit Yantaç shared his evaluation of 2025 and expectations for 2026 with Anadolu Agency. Yantaç noted that the automotive market has performed strongly this year and is heading toward another record.
He recalled that the company predicted five consecutive years of record sales starting in 2023, and developments in 2025 appear to confirm that forecast.
According to Yantaç, the total automotive market volume in Türkiye is expected to exceed 1.35 million units by the end of 2025, surpassing the 1.238 million vehicles sold in 2024.
He described 2025 as a highly successful year for Opel Türkiye, which began the year with a 5.5% market share target and a sales goal of 70,000 units.
Opel Expands Electrification Strategy
Looking ahead to 2026, Opel plans to accelerate its electrification and product diversification strategies.
As part of this strategy, the brand will introduce fully electric, performance-oriented SUV models such as Mokka GSE and Grandland AWD in the Turkish market starting in 2026.
Citroën Sees Strong Demand and Market Growth
Citroën Türkiye Brand Director Bora Duran also highlighted the strength of the automotive market over the past three years. He expects the market to close 2025 with a new record of around 1.35 million units.
Duran reported that passenger car sales grew by 11%, while light commercial vehicle sales increased by approximately 7%. He also forecast strong demand in the light commercial segment, supported by product renewals and increased competition.
Citroën Plans Fully Renewed Lineup in 2026
Duran described 2025 as a historic year for Citroën in Türkiye. Between January and November, the brand recorded 60,727 sales and a 5.2% market share, marking one of its strongest performances in the Turkish market.
He noted that 2026 will bring a fully renewed product lineup for the brand. Updated models will include:
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C3
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C3 Aircross
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C4 and C4 X
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Ami
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Light commercial vehicles
“Starting in 2026, we will offer only electric and hybrid engine options for passenger cars,” Duran said.
He added that the company aims for 4 out of every 10 passenger cars sold to be electric in the coming years.
