This year’s survey included feedback from more than 1,800 dealer principals covering nearly 5,000 outlets across India. For the first time, responses were collected in nine regional languages to ensure wider participation. The overall industry satisfaction index reached 781 points, up 13 points from last year.
Segment-Wise Leaders
- 4-Wheeler Mass Market: JSW MG Motor topped with 868 points, followed by Mahindra & Mahindra (832), Tata Motors (812), Kia India (736), Hyundai Motor India (734), and Maruti Suzuki (727).
- 2-Wheelers: Royal Enfield led with 852 points, followed by Hero MotoCorp (817), Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (747), and TVS Motor Company (632). Both Royal Enfield and Hero MotoCorp posted the highest year-on-year gains, with improvements of over 140 points each.
- Commercial Vehicles: Ashok Leyland retained the top spot with 786 points. Tata Motors CV was the only OEM in this category to improve from last year.
- 3-Wheelers: After three years, the segment returned to the study, with Atul Auto leading at 924 points.
- Luxury Cars: Volvo Cars ranked highest with 884 points.
The survey found that product quality and reliability remain strong across categories, but after-sales service and business viability factors are now shaping dealer sentiment the most.
Dealers across segments highlighted common concerns:
- Lack of clear buyback or write-off policies for unsold inventory.
- Training cost-sharing arrangements with OEMs.
- Low margins on vehicles and spare parts.
- Limited involvement of dealers in OEM decision-making.
- Long-term viability and profitability of dealerships.
While 2-wheeler dealers reported higher satisfaction compared to last year, scores in the 4-wheeler mass market and commercial vehicle segments declined.
FADA President C S Vigneshwar said, “The Dealer Satisfaction Study provides a true mirror to the evolving dealer–OEM relationship. While our industry continues to win on product quality and reliability, structural issues like buyback policies, training costs, and dealership viability cannot be overlooked.”
PremonAsia Director and COO Rahul Sharma added, “Close to two-thirds of dealer sentiment is shaped by after-sales and viability factors. Addressing concerns such as inventory costs, buyback policies and training arrangements can make a meaningful difference to dealer confidence and long-term partnerships.”