Suzuki has officially overtaken the VW Group to become the second best-selling car brand in South Africa.
Published this week, the monthly vehicle sales data for April 2024 revealed that the automaker sold a total of 4,891 units compared to VW’s 4,758 units.
While the 4,891 units sold last month is not a new record for Suzuki, it reflects a 35% year-on-year increase compared to the same month in 2023, showing just how quickly the manufacturer’s popularity has shot up.
Steady growth
While April may be the month where Suzuki overtook Volkswagen in terms of total sales, the Japanese company has technically already beaten its German rival at least once.
In February, the VW Group sold 5,333 units compared to Suzuki’s 5,221 units – a difference of just 112 models. However, the group’s sales also comprise those accumulated by Audi, which added 435 units to the brand’s tally.
Removing Audi from the equation, Suzuki actually beat VW by 323 units, marking the first time that the Wolfsburg-based carmaker lost its spot as South Africa’s second best-selling car brand in years.
The reason for the shift is mainly attributed to the prices of their respective catalogues, as Suzuki has an extensive line-up of affordable models, including nine different options that can be bought for less than R300,000.
“Customers are definitely feeling the squeeze of high interest rates, high fuel prices, and the rising cost of living, and they are holding back on buying durable goods like cars and pick-ups,” said Henno Havenga, General Manager for Sales and Marketing at Suzuki Auto South Africa.
“Our experience shows that those who do purchase a new car are looking for the best possible price and lowest running cost, and that has definitely favoured Suzuki Auto’s refreshed range of vehicles.”
This is evident in the company’s recent performances, as the financial year from April 2022 to March 2023 was the busiest in Suzuki’s 15-year presence in the local market.
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