Car Purchase Likelihood Hits Peak While Housing Demand Falls in Turkey – 2026 Consumer Sentiment Shift

Turkey’s consumer enthusiasm is split between cars and homes in 2026, with the car purchase likelihood index climbing to 27.8 in August, a 4% rise from July, while housing purchase expectations fell to 14.9, down 2.6%.

Car Purchase Momentum: Reaching 27.8

■August 2026 car purchase likelihood index at 27.8

■4% increase from July, 19.8% rise from the 23.2 level at the start of the year

■Compared to August 2025: 23.9, now 16.3% higher

Housing Purchase Decline: A Slowing Pulse

■August 2026 housing purchase likelihood index at 14.9

■2.6% drop from July, back to the 14.9 level at the year's start

■14.4% decline from April 2026’s peak of 17.4

Year‑on‑Year Comparison: 2025 vs 2026

■Car index rose from 23.9 in August 2025 to 27.8 in August 2026

■Housing index climbed from 13.4 in August 2025 to 14.9 in 2026, yet shows intra‑year volatility

Beyond Consumer Behavior: Economic Signals

■Rising car demand contrasted with falling housing interest

■Indicates a shift in liquidity preferences and the interest‑rate environment

■Markets see automotive sector more closely tied to consumer confidence

Conclusion: What It Means for the Auto Market

■Stronger car purchase expectations signal positive production planning for automakers

■Weak housing demand could dampen the construction and mortgage sectors

■Consumer spending distribution may reshape 2026 growth forecasts

The divergence in consumer enthusiasm suggests that a surge in automotive demand could foster a competitive environment, especially among middle‑class buyers. The slowdown in housing demand reflects higher interest rates and tighter credit conditions. If this trend persists, automakers will need to expand production capacity and innovate in financing strategies.