What cars do Romanians choose? Diesel, the king of the roads. Dominant brand and favorite models by city
The car market in Romania continues to be oriented towards affordable models with low maintenance costs and long-term efficiency. Official data shows that, despite the increase in interest in new cars, most drivers still prefer used cars.
The people of Bucharest prefer SUVs. PHOTO archive The truth
In 2025, Volkswagen was the most registered brand in Romania, according to ProTv News.
Volkswagen, the preferred brand in 30 counties
Of the 548,612 cars registered in circulation in Romania last year, almost 71.5% were second-hand cars, and almost 27% of them bore the logo of the German manufacturer.
Golf and Passat remain the favorite models of Romanians. Golf dominates in the counties of Cluj, Iași, Timiș or Prahova, while Passat is predominantly chosen in Constanța and Galați. Their popularity is explained by low maintenance costs and the availability of parts.
SUVs are gaining ground in the Capital
In Bucharest and Ilfov, the trend is obvious: drivers are increasingly turning to SUVs. Dacia Duster is the preferred model, thanks to the high driving position, good visibility in traffic and the ability to face urban challenges as well as more difficult roads.
Pre-owned premium cars, in great demand in Dolj
If SUVs dominate in the Capital, in Dolj county preferences are directed towards the premium segment.
BMW is the most registered brand.
“I also had Audi and Mercedes, but this one I found at a good price, good quality, made in Germany”, one driver explained his choice.
Another sees things more pragmatically:
“They are good cars, but if they are not maintained on time they cost money. I think it is more of a girl, so I will change it.”
Many Romanians are looking for a balance between price and maintenance costs
Industry experts confirm that the purchase decision is increasingly calculated.
Romanians are looking for a balance between the purchase price and subsequent costs, says Veronica Negru, marketing director of an online car platform, for ProTV News:
“Accessibility of parts, services and depreciation of the car matters. People are more and more careful about how they invest their money”.
Diesel, the king of roads in Romania
In terms of engines, diesel continues to dominate, followed by petrol and hybrids. Electric cars still remain a minority, despite the growth of charging infrastructure.
When it comes to traction, most drivers choose front-wheel drive, a cheaper and sufficient solution for the city and ordinary roads.
