This scoping review examines the emerging field of circular economy (CE) and sustainability research, with a specific focus on CE benchmarking practices in the automotive industry in developing economies. A bibliometric analysis (2015–2024) reveals a steady increase in scientific output, with notable peaks in 2022 and 2023. The Journal of Cleaner Production stands out as a pivotal source and is prominent in both research output and citations. Well-known authors such as K. Govindan and D. Kannan lead local citation counts. Their work significantly contributes to sustainable supply chains and operational strategies. Country analysis reveals China's dominance in volume, while Denmark and the USA exhibit greater citation impact and global influence. Although South Africa's involvement in CE research remains modest, it presents opportunities for strategic academic collaborations and expansion. Thematically, the literature focuses on policy frameworks, extended producer responsibility, sustainability performance, and interdisciplinary integration, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, and resource recovery. These findings highlight the key areas for CE implementation and offer guidance for future research and practical application within the sector.