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Toyota Outsells Tesla Model Y to Become 2024’s Global Best-Seller

Toyota dominated the list of global bestsellers of 2024. But which one came out on top?

The Toyota RAV4 officially claimed the title of America’s best-selling vehicle in 2024, surpassing the Ford F-150 (excluding Super Duty variants). Its popularity extends far beyond the U.S., as recent global sales data reveal that the RAV4 has become the world’s top-selling vehicle in 2024, unseating the Tesla Model Y, which held the crown in 2023.

The competition between the RAV4 and the Model Y was remarkably close, with the Toyota SUV edging out Tesla by just over 2,000 units. These figures come from Felipe Munoz of JATO Dynamics, a trusted source that has meticulously tracked global vehicle sales for years using data from national statistics offices, dealer associations, and customer records. Notably, JATO Dynamics was also behind the report that last year ended the Ford F-150’s long-standing reign as America’s top-selling vehicle.

 

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    Toyota Dominates the Global Bestsellers List

     

    In 2024, the Toyota RAV4—known as the Wildlander in some markets—claimed the global sales crown by moving 1.187 million units, marking an impressive 11% increase over its 2023 figures. By comparison, Tesla sold 1.185 million Model Ys, representing a 3% decline from the previous year. The dip in Tesla’s demand last year clearly impacted its sales, while Toyota’s growing popularity helped the RAV4 pull ahead.

    Interestingly, Toyota’s dominance extends beyond the RAV4, with four other Toyota-badged models featuring among the global bestsellers. These include the third-ranked Corolla Cross (also known as the Frontlander), the Corolla Sedan (Levin Sedan), the Hilux midsize truck, and the Camry midsize sedan. Tesla also has a presence with the Model 3, which ranks ninth with 560,000 units sold. Other notable bestsellers rounding out the top ten are the Honda CR-V in fourth place, the Ford F-150 in seventh, and the BYD Qin completing the list at tenth.

     

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      A Tight Competition Between Two Popular Nameplates

       

      It’s important to note that these sales figures reflect pre-update models for both the Model Y and the RAV4. The latter is set to receive a significant redesign for the 2026 model year, which will gradually reach dealer lots. A major shift with the sixth-generation RAV4 is its move to an all-hybrid lineup, meaning the traditional pure combustion engine option will no longer be available. For those who prefer conventional engines over hybrids, securing a 2025 RAV4 before current inventory runs dry might be a wise move.

      Meanwhile, Tesla has also rolled out a significant update to the Model Y, known as the Juniper edition, which has already started reaching customers—so you’ve likely spotted one on the road. Despite this, Tesla has faced a notable sales slump this year, with declining numbers in several key markets, including Europe.

      It remains to be seen whether Tesla can bounce back from this downturn or if the all-new, hybrid-only RAV4 will maintain its lead as the world’s best-seller heading into 2025.

       

       

       

       

       

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