Overall retail auto sales slipped into double-digit decline in September, but a late surge in demand ahead of the festive season brought much-needed relief to manufacturers and lifted hopes for a stronger October.

According to Vahan data, registrations stood at 1.51 million units as of 2 PM on Tuesday, down 13.28% from 1.74 million units a year earlier. Industry executives pointed out that these figures are based on registrations, which often lag deliveries by a few days, meaning part of September’s sales will be reflected only in October numbers.

The first three weeks of September were marked by subdued demand, with buyers deferring purchases while awaiting festive discounts and clarity on GST rate changes. Sentiment was also dampened by the Pitru Paksha period, when many househol

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