In the US, Honda has overtaken long-time leader Ford
The U.S. auto market has witnessed a historic shift in the U.S. auto market, the Honda CR-V crossover has become the country's best-selling vehicle for the first half of 2026, according to Zamin.uz.
This marks the first time in 16 years that a Ford model has not led the market in March, as the long-dominant Ford F-150 pickup was overtaken.
According to Automotive News, Honda sold 226,114 CR-V units in the U.S. during the first six months of 2026, compared to 209,311 for the F-150 and 153,955 for the Toyota RAV4, which rounded out the top three.
The sharp change reflects not only Honda's success but also ongoing production challenges faced by its main rivals. In particular, Toyota encountered unexpected difficulties during the transition to the new generation of the RAV4.
Reconfiguring assembly lines and preparing for the launch of the updated 2026 model led to declining inventories at dealerships. As a result, RAV4 sales in the first half of the year dropped by 36% compared to the same period last year.
Ford also faced setbacks at the start of 2026. A fire at one of its key aluminum suppliers at the end of 2025 negatively impacted F-150 production rates.
Although component deliveries have since been fully restored, the automaker was unable to produce enough vehicles for several months, affecting its overall sales performance.
However, attributing Honda's success solely to rivals' missteps would be inaccurate. The CR-V continues to strengthen its position as America's most popular hybrid crossover.
Hybrid versions account for 56% of all CR-V sales, indicating growing consumer interest in fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies.
Additionally, Honda has aggressively promoted its leasing programs. Data shows the company has retained 75% of its customers, meaning drivers whose previous leases expired are choosing to stay with the brand.
Leasing now accounts for up to 24% of sales. Due to significant increases in May and June, the manufacturer has decided to operate its plants at full capacity.
Whether the Honda CR-V will maintain its lead through the end of the year remains to be seen. For now, Toyota is ramping up production of the new RAV4, while Ford plans to fully restore pickup deliveries in the second half of the year.
The volatile and intriguing battle in the U.S. auto market is far from over.
