The used car market in Argentina experienced a significant year-on-year decline of 9.98% in January 2026, despite having set record sales figures in the previous year.
The used car market in Argentina started 2026 with a notable contraction of 9.98% in January, breaking the momentum of 2025, which was marked as the best year on record. According to the Chamber of Automotive Commerce (CCA), 153,070 used vehicles were sold in January, compared to 170,046 units sold in January 2025. This decline indicates a substantial shift in market dynamics after last year's record-breaking sales of nearly 1.9 million vehicles, which had led to high expectations for the following year.
While the January 2026 figures showed a slight increase of 0.71% compared to December 2025's sales of 151,994 units, the year-on-year comparison is stark. Notably, the beginning of 2026 is set to be very competitive, with the introduction of a significant wave of Chinese cars into the Argentine market likely to influence the market landscape. Alejandro Lamas, Secretary of the CCA, expressed caution about the recent downturn, suggesting that this may not be the time for hasty decisions in reaction to the changing market environment.
The current situation presents both challenges and opportunities within the automotive segment. With record highs recorded the previous year, expectations are tempered as the market recalibrates amidst new entrants and changing consumer dynamics. Stakeholders are advised to monitor the evolving landscape carefully as the market adjusts to this new reality, considering that competition may further intensify with the presence of additional Chinese vehicles in the Argentine used car sector.
