The domestic sedan market didn’t quite live up to the traditional sales boom expected during the 'Golden September' period. According to data from the China Passenger Car Association, retail sales of sedans in September reached only 636,000 units, marking a 37.7% decrease year-on-year. Amid this sluggish market, the rankings continued to shift: domestic new energy models surged forward, cementing their dominance in sales, while joint-venture fuel-powered vehicles gradually retreated, leaving the Lavida as the sole representative in the top 10.

Within these rankings, the Xingyuan led the pack with 44,275 units sold, outpacing the second-place model by nearly 27,000 units and maintaining its sales crown for nine consecutive months. The battle for second place was intense, with models like the Dolphin, Xiaomi SU7, MG 07, Seal 06, and Model 3 all clustered within the 14,000-17,000 unit range, competing fiercely for position. Notably, the MG 07 made its debut on the list; the Seal 06, Hongguang MINIEV, and MG4 experienced significant sales growth, while the Dolphin, Xiaomi SU7, and Bingguo PRO saw slight declines.

1st Place: Geely Xingyuan - 44,275 Units

In September, the Xingyuan’s sales soared to 44,275 units, up 11.66% month-on-month, marking three consecutive months of growth and solidifying its position as the sedan sales leader.

The Xingyuan’s enduring leadership can be attributed to its strategic pricing. With a starting price of just RMB 61,800, it remains highly accessible. Features such as CATL battery cells, a 'rear-wheel drive + independent suspension' setup, and the Flyme Auto smart cockpit further enhance its appeal among similarly priced models.

Its affordable pricing, combined with robust product quality, precisely meets consumer demand for high cost-effectiveness, making its sustained sales leadership unsurprising.

2nd Place: BYD Dolphin - 16,754 Units

This month, the Dolphin, ranked second, achieved monthly sales of 16,754 units. Despite a slight decline, it remained among the top five in sedan sales for three consecutive months.

The Dolphin’s popularity stems from BYD’s long-standing reputation for battery safety and tri-electric system stability, as well as its own product strengths. While compact and agile, its interior space is surprisingly roomy, and its configurations are generous. With a length of just over 4.1 meters and a wheelbase of 2,700mm, it offers 'compact exterior dimensions with spacious interiors,' rivaling the space performance of some traditional compact sedans.

Additionally, features like the Blade Battery, a 420km CLTC pure electric range, and the 'Divine Eye C' advanced intelligent driving system enhance its practicality and smart experience, making it a favorite among consumers.

3rd Place: Xiaomi SU7 - 15,751 Units

In September, the Xiaomi SU7’s sales reached 15,751 units, experiencing a slight month-on-month decline. While unable to sustain its high performance of over 20,000 units from May to July this year, it remained at the forefront of sedan sales amid the overall market downturn, with no significant drop in popularity.

The SU7’s appeal lies partly in Xiaomi’s established user base and partly in its design, which resonates with young consumers. Its sporty exterior, strong tech vibe, and the influence of the Xiaomi brand itself have kept it in the spotlight since its launch, giving it a strong presence in the new energy sedan market.

4th Place: MG 07 - 14,577 Units

In September’s sales rankings, the newcomer MG 07 surged to fourth place with 14,577 units delivered. Notably, the vehicle officially launched in late August and achieved such results in its first full delivery month, highlighting its market buzz.

Its success stems from its competitive pricing, starting at RMB 105,900, which offers consumers the possibility of a 'premium experience.' More importantly, the MG 07 doesn’t rely solely on low pricing; it brings over-spec configurations such as an 845km CLTC pure electric range, mCDC intelligent electromagnetic suspension, and Momenta R7 lidar-based intelligent driving to a more affordable price point.

In essence, the MG 07’s rapid rise captures the current consumer mindset of demanding affordability without compromising on features. Its premium experience at a lower price has quickly made it a dark horse in the market.

5th Place: BYD Seal 06 - 14,479 Units

In September, the BYD Seal 06 delivered 14,479 units, securing a spot in the top 10 for the second consecutive month. The plug-in hybrid version contributed 9,605 units, while the pure electric version delivered 4,874 units, showcasing strong market performance.

The Seal 06’s key selling point is offering a near-B-class experience at an A-class price. Priced around RMB 100,000 and equipped with BYD’s fifth-generation DM technology, it achieves a fuel consumption as low as 2.59L/100km in low-battery conditions, significantly reducing daily operating costs.

Meanwhile, its 2,820mm wheelbase delivers over-spec interior space, complemented by configurations like the 'Divine Eye' intelligent driving system and the Yunshan-C system, making it highly competitive in its class.

Final Thoughts:

From September’s top 10 sedan sales, new energy models now occupy nine spots, one more than in August, indicating their continued encroachment on the traditional fuel-powered vehicle market and the ongoing reshuffling of market rankings.

However, the enduring presence of the Lavida on the list demonstrates that while fuel-powered vehicles’ market share is declining, they have not exited the stage. Despite their shrinking market share, their long-established reputation and stable product performance continue to attract consumers.

It is clear that the competition between new energy and fuel-powered vehicles continues. As new energy vehicles penetrate further, the 'ranking battle' in the future sedan market will only intensify. With 'Golden September' concluded, whether 'Silver October' will see a sales rebound remains to be seen.

(Images sourced from the internet; removal upon infringement notice)