KATHMANDU: Electric vehicles continue to dominate Nepal’s passenger car market, accounting for around 70% of total imports this fiscal year.
Still, petrol cars are far from disappearing. Data shows a modest rebound, with petrol vehicles now making up about 40% of market share.
EVs remain popular due to tax incentives, competitive pricing, and modern features. Nepal now has more than four dozen EV brands on sale. However, concerns over charging infrastructure and range continue to influence buyer decisions. For many customers, petrol cars still offer peace of mind, especially for long-distance travel.
Within the petrol segment, small sub-four-meter SUVs have shown steady demand. Between January 1 and November 15, 2025, Nepal imported 13,817 cars. Of these, 3,595 units were petrol-powered. Several compact petrol SUVs recorded strong import numbers during this period.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza topped the list among small petrol SUVs. CG MotoCorp imported 472 units during the review period. This figure includes standard petrol and mild-hybrid variants.
The Brezza uses a 1.5-liter petrol engine. Prices start at Rs 4.709 million and go up to Rs 6.629 million.
Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet secured second position with 339 units imported by Continental Trading. The model is offered with a 1.2-liter petrol engine and a 1.5-liter diesel option.
It is sold in four variants, priced between Rs 3.79 million and Rs 5.99 million.
Hyundai Venue
Hyundai Venue ranked third with 336 units imported. Laxmi Intercontinental is assembling the Venue locally in Nepal. Engine options include a 1.2-liter petrol and a 1.0-liter turbo petrol.
The Venue is available in four variants. Prices range from Rs 4.196 million to Rs 5.996 million.
Nissan Magnite
The Nissan Magnite took fourth place with 248 units imported by SPG Automobiles. It comes with a 1.0-liter petrol engine and is offered in as many as 15 variants.
Pricing starts at Rs 3.575 million and goes up to Rs 5.399 million.
