The year 2025 didn’t quietly enter Tunisia’s car market—it arrived like a wave, transforming everything in its path. For anyone trying to understand what truly happened, the key isn’t in the official statements or promotional articles. Instead, a glance at the car catalog before and after tells the full story.
At the beginning of 2025, the catalog of new cars included about 380 models. Fast forward to 2026, and that same catalog now boasts nearly 430 models—a jump of nearly fifty models in less than a year. This expansion is particularly significant for the Tunisian market, which is relatively small by global standards.
This rapid increase in the number of available models highlights two major trends: the fast-paced growth of the car market and the intense competition between brands.
A Surge in Electric and Hybrid Cars
Perhaps the most striking part of this surge is the fact that it wasn’t driven by traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. In fact, almost 80% of the fifty new models are either electric or hybrid. Around 25 electric models entered the catalog in just one year, alongside 15 hybrid models, with only the remaining few being traditional ICE cars.
This shift is monumental: for the first time in Tunisia, electric vehicles (EVs) now represent approximately 13% of the catalog, while hybrids make up about 18%. The remaining models are traditional ICE vehicles. This signals a significant shift in perception—the market no longer views electric vehicles as a distant possibility but as a present reality.
The Chinese Influence: Quality and Quantity
When diving deeper, it’s evident that more than 45% of the new models come from China or Chinese partnerships. Brands like MG, Geely, BYD, Jetour, Chery, Omoda, DFSK, GAC, Haval, JMC, JMEV, Cenntro, and others have either entered the market or expanded their presence in a noticeable way.
China’s entry into the market wasn’t just about price—it was about a broad offering of electric and hybrid models, backed by advanced technology and a new understanding of the car as a product. Chinese manufacturers brought a refreshing approach to the Tunisian market, both in terms of price and innovation.
Europe’s Shift: From Quantity to Quality
Europe hasn’t pulled back from the Tunisian market, but it has shifted its strategy. Today, approximately 35% of the catalog is European, with brands like Renault, Peugeot, Volkswagen, Skoda, Audi, BMW, Volvo, and Porsche. The European approach now focuses less on volume and more on value, with a greater emphasis on premium, high-quality electric cars.
Japan and Korea: A Balanced Approach
Japan and South Korea maintain a steady presence, accounting for about 15% of the catalog. Brands like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, and others have relied on their expertise with hybrid models. Unlike European manufacturers, Japanese and Korean automakers have been more cautious about fully embracing electric vehicles, focusing instead on hybrid options as a middle ground that appeals to Tunisian consumers at this stage.
Not Just New Models: Facelifts and Renewals
The change isn’t limited to new models alone—existing models have also undergone significant transformations. Around 12 models received facelifts or new generations, including the new Skoda Superb, Peugeot Traveller and Boxer, Hyundai Tucson Alpha, and Ford Territory Alpha. Even established models had to evolve to stay relevant in the changing market landscape.
The Entry of New Brands
Moreover, 2025 saw the introduction of six entirely new brands to the Tunisian market: Jetour, JMC, JMEV, Cenntro, Omoda, and Avantier Motors. These new entrants weren’t just a few models here and there—they were complete brands, contributing significantly to the expansion of the catalog.
A Turning Point: The Shift Toward Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
The year 2025 marked a clear turning point in Tunisia’s car market. The catalog expanded by around 13% in just one year, with electric and hybrid vehicles dominating the new entries. Chinese brands made a bold entry, Europe repositioned itself, and the consumer now had access to choices that were previously unavailable. The catalog is no longer telling the story of the past—it’s telling the story of the future.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for 2026?
With all that transpired in 2025, a larger, more critical question arises: What lies ahead for the Tunisian market in 2026? The government has already signaled clear support for electric and hybrid vehicles, through incentives such as tax exemptions and other advantages.
While 2025 was primarily about the supply-side revolution—new brands, new models, and a dramatic shift in the available offering—2026 could very well be the year of demand. The decision-making power will no longer rest solely with the companies but will also be influenced by the government and consumers.
Will the Tunisian consumer embrace electric and hybrid vehicles if the price, warranty, and infrastructure support are in place? Or will concerns about charging, maintenance, and resale value continue to outweigh the incentives? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of Tunisia’s car market is already here, and it’s electric.
