German car registrations declined 6.6% year-on-year in January 2026, marking a sharp turnaround from the previously reported 9.7% annual increase. The latest data, updated on 24 February 2026, signal a notable weakening in demand at the start of the year.
The figures are based on a year-over-year comparison, measuring January 2026 registrations against those in January 2025. The “previous” indicator, also calculated on a year-over-year basis, showed a 9.7% rise, highlighting how swiftly momentum has shifted. With both the current and previous readings referencing January on an annual comparison, the new data underscore a substantial deterioration in the market backdrop for Germany’s automotive sector.
